Beware of this Power Inlet.....

[Islander]

Beware of this type of "Inlet and it's Installation" !
-- Picture below -- Bottom of Page

After a big rain fall last night I did a morning check on my Wildcat.

I have always been sceptical of the 'Power Inlet' installed on the rear of my 5th wheel being exposed to the elements.

This type of Power Inlet relies on a rubber gasket to seal out the water.
"If" it was installed properly it may provide a few years of protection.

However, after lifting the flap/door on the inlet I noticed the 2 bottom screws were rusty. I suspected water was getting in behind the inlet.
After removing all 4 screws I found one screw was not holding at all as the hole cut to accommodate the inlet was cut too big allowing for a loose fit on the gasket.
The bottom part of the hole was damp and it had obviously been like this for some time.
I have everything apart now drying ....no major damage

When I reassemble everything I will be making a pvc brow to fit above the power inlet to provide some protection from rainwater.

Also I will be using an elastomeric sealant on 'both sides' of the rubber gasket to be sure no water will penetrate the fixture .

I post this in hope that it may help anyone else before any serious damage occurs to their rv. around the Power Inlet of this type.

-Islander-

[jwedell]

Thanks for the tip. I shall now give a look. (I could not open the picture.)

[Islander]

Picture of 'Inlet'...was at the bottom of the Post.
(hope it works this time)

[jwedell]

No, must be my iPad. But I know what you mean