Where can I buy a 10' 50 amp cable?

[Ford Idaho]

Originally Posted by OldCoot

Regardless, not a good idea to lock any electrical box.

This begs the question, why are they made so they CAN be locked?

Look at the IMG's do note where many ARE built to be locked for one reason or another.

I think this one looks familiar.
.
https://www.google.com/search?q=elec...l+outlet+panel

[jtstromsburg]

Originally Posted by Ford Idaho

This begs the question, why are they made so they CAN be locked?

Look at the IMG's do note where many ARE built to be locked for one reason or another.

I think this one looks familiar.
.
https://www.google.com/search?q=elec...l+outlet+panel

Generally they are made for "locking out" in case of need by maintenance. I agree with OC that locking it with your own padlock isn't the best idea. I'm in building operations and maintenance and so panels are locked at our building, but those that need access carry a key.

For this particular instance, I think the best option is for the OP to sell his portable unit and purchase a hard wired one with remote display. Safe from weather and thief's.

All just my opinion

[mike.t]

OP.Don't take this to far. What made you think of doing something like this?

[mike.t]

Originally Posted by Ford Idaho

This begs the question, why are they made so they CAN be locked?

Look at the IMG's do note where many ARE built to be locked for one reason or another.

I think this one looks familiar.
.
https://www.google.com/search?q=elec...l+outlet+panel

In case there is a short in the box.

[OldCoot]

Originally Posted by Ford Idaho

This begs the question, why are they made so they CAN be locked?...

To prevent unauthorized use.

[Ford Idaho]

Originally Posted by OldCoot

To prevent unauthorized use.

Have you ever seen one not being used locked?

I have not.

[mike.t]

Originally Posted by Ford Idaho

Have you ever seen one not being used locked?

I have not.

Again. If there is a problem with the box they don't want someone using it. Commonly know as CYA

[OldCoot]

Originally Posted by Ford Idaho

Have you ever seen one not being used locked?

I have not.

Yes, @ several campgrounds over the years. Also seen water shutoffs and sewer connections padlocked. It does keep folks from hooking up where they are not supposed to.

[mike.t]

Why is it so hard to understand that if the box has a potential to electrocute or cause serious injury why would you not lock it??????????? Jeez folks

[jtstromsburg]

Originally Posted by mike.t

Why is it so hard to understand that if the box has a potential to electrocute or cause serious injury why would you not lock it??????????? Jeez folks

We're talking about the box you open the door on to plug into. Any box with exposed terminals/wires should be screwed/locked shut of course. But to close and lock the power access, even locked from maintenance staff isn't a good idea. I know I'd cut the lock off of any I come across at work.

[Wolverine 1945]

It's just too damm sad that we live in a world where have to lock every thing we own !!!

[OldCoot]

Originally Posted by mike.t

Why is it so hard to understand that if the box has a potential to electrocute or cause serious injury why would you not lock it??????????? Jeez folks

Agree 100%. Locking it removes the risk of serious injury. OSHA even has Lock out Tag out rules. Only the person locking the box can unlock it.

[OldCoot]

Originally Posted by jtstromsburg

... I know I'd cut the lock off of any I come across at work.

All the places I've worked for, if they found out who cut the lock would have been fired on the spot. There has to be a reason for someone putting the lock on the box that you don't know about.

[wire1946]

go to a electrical supply house and buy what you need. as long or as short as you need

[jtstromsburg]

Originally Posted by OldCoot

All the places I've worked for, if they found out who cut the lock would have been fired on the spot. There has to be a reason for someone putting the lock on the box that you don't know about.

I'm the one in charge of lock out/tag out and all electrical/mechanical work. That's my point.

So, if in a campground, I needed to work on a spots power pedestal and it was locked, if simply remove their lock. Of course if they're around they can unlock it. This has come up at my work place where a staff member locks something up simply because they want the control of it it to protect their stuff. That doesn't follow policy. Totally different than a campground though. Sorry to hijack so much. Still think the best option is a hard wired power protection system for the OP.