Hughes Autoformer

[Iggy]

Originally Posted by herk7769

Makes my purchase of a Frank's Electronics Voltage Booster,Autoformer,Camping - eBay (item 260469044469 end time Dec-21-10 07:00:52 PST) seem pretty good.

I used the "Name your price" feature and got my 30 Amp unit for $350.00

It is a two stage unit with an 8% and 16% boost feature. While not a 3 stage like the new Hughes; at least they are still available.

I just found a used Hughes RV2130 ($379 +S/H) with a seperate 30 amp surge protection (Reg $249) from a local who doesn't have a rig amymore. He wants $255 for both units. Seems a good price. I will have to verify they work properly.

[Herk7769]

Sounds like a very good deal. I would take the chance.

[bailer6334]

When I had my Arctic Fox 5er it had 30AMP connection and I purchased a Franks 30AMP voltage booster.Worked great for both high/low voltage and surge protection. Saved my rig several times for one of the protections it provides. Now I have a 50AMP unit I purchased. Its a Power Master VC-50 for both voltage boost up to 12% and a surge protector to 3580 Joules. The only thing I don't like about either is the weight. The 30 AMP weighs 22lbs, and the 50AMP weighs 40lbs. I use to have the 30AMP in the cord compartment and out of sight. With the new rig the cord connection is on the side of the rig so I'm not sure where I'm going to place the unit.

[Herk7769]

These are real expensive and I am sure you can buy the parts cheaper from a discount house Hughes Autoformer 30 amp Installation Kit for a more permanent, but removable installation.

[jimh]

if i looked at it right, the 50 amp model has two autoformers in it. if u adapt it to 30 amps on the input, it will send the same phase to each autoformer. when plugged in it applies 110 to each autoformer 180 out of phase which can be combined to yield 220 in the trailer.
sense 220 is available on 50 amps, i can see 220 dryer circuits in the future.

the problem i wrestle with is that when i adapt from 30 (park) to 50 (trailer), i'm pushing the limit of the park breaker. any additions to that circuit whether it is the copper losses in the autoformer, the lights burning a little brighter, the water heater or frig pulling more amps would cause a breaker trip. the only benefits i can see is the surge suppression, low voltage trip, and the circuit check.
if an autoformer is in ur future and u expect to move from 30amp to 50 amp (replacing the trailer), u may want to consider the 50 amp and adapt it on both ends.

[Herk7769]

Originally Posted by jimh

the problem i wrestle with is that when i adapt from 30 (park) to 50 (trailer), I'm pushing the limit of the park breaker

This is always the case when using an adapter to upgrade available service to your camper's requirements whether 30 to 50 or 15 to 30. You should always be aware of your current draw since the "weak point" in your system is the pedestal breaker.

Originally Posted by jimh

If an autoformer is in your future and you expect to move from 30amp to 50 amp (replacing the trailer), you may want to consider the 50 amp and adapt it on both ends.

I did look into this. However, IMHO, I have no idea when, or even if, this will happen and the 50 amp model is almost twice the cost of the 30 amp (eBay prices). Used, the 30 amp units hold their value and sell for almost what new ones sell for. That makes upgrading to a 50 amp from a 30 amp almost painless if it ever becomes required.

[jimh]

good point. i was thinking there was more of a spread between new and used.
the appealing part to me is the surge suppression. i like the idea of the low voltage shut down and the proper wiring check as well. the boost...not really. but for the price of a good surge suppressor, u can have an autoformer and get both.
i was looking at them in camping world in alabama along i-20. it's one thing to read the weight but picking it up really drives it home.
on adapting, i don't think u would have to adapt the output. the autotransofrormers are separate. would still like to see an actual schematic of one.

[Herk7769]

I bought the 30 amp Franks dual stage (8% - 16%) unit on ebay.

Frank's Electronics Voltage Booster,Autoformer,Camping - eBay (item 260469044469 end time Jan-20-11 07:00:52 PST)

Use the "Make offer" he has it set to automatically accept a lower price.
Good Luck.

[Iggy]

Originally Posted by herk7769

I bought the 30 amp Franks dual stage (8% - 16%) unit on ebay.

Frank's Electronics Voltage Booster,Autoformer,Camping - eBay (item 260469044469 end time Jan-20-11 07:00:52 PST)

Use the "Make offer" he has it set to automatically accept a lower price.
Good Luck.

How low of a price?

[Herk7769]

350 was accepted. I have no idea how low it is set.

[Iggy]

Originally Posted by herk7769

350 was accepted. I have no idea how low it is set.

Thanks Lou. I'm planning to buy the units in the picture.
Bothe the autoformers as well as the other surge an dlow voltage protection. It is a great deal after I verify they both work properly.