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-   -   Generator neutral ground bonding (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=416999)

  • Nov 17, 2009, 09:02 PM
    hookman
    Generator neutral ground bonding
    I have a EU2000i generator for my 5th wheel. The trailer system is not bonded and the gen set is not bonded. I was told to make a short extension cord and bond the male plug so that the electrical will work properly. I would like to know if this will work safely.
  • Nov 17, 2009, 10:12 PM
    KISS

    Neutral and ground may or may not be connected to the frame of the generator. Bonding the neutral and the ground to the frame (2 straps) would be the best method if the generator is permanent.
  • Nov 17, 2009, 10:32 PM
    hookman
    The generator is portable and might be used for other purposes such as power tools so I would to have away to use it both ways without taking things apart.
  • Nov 18, 2009, 05:17 AM
    stanfortyman
    That is a very small portable generator that will NEVER be used in a hard wired application. Leave it the way it came from the factory. You have absolutely no reason to change anything on it. :)
  • Nov 18, 2009, 05:18 AM
    stanfortyman

    That's also a tiny unit for a 5th wheel. You will not be able to power very much at the same time. Will it even run the A/C?
  • Nov 18, 2009, 04:48 PM
    hookman
    It is for charging the battery, run the Microwave or the satellite TV. The trailer is not bonded or the generator. When on park power theirs is bonded. I was informed one item should be bonded.
  • Nov 18, 2009, 06:50 PM
    KISS

    When using power tools without the bond, you essentially have an isolated power source or an electrified truck when things are defective.

    When connecting the bond with a whole house generator, you can create ground loops.

    GFCI's are a good thing when placed on the generator.

    When operating stand alone, you can't sink a ground rod, so neutral and ground should be bonded together.

    One way to solve the problem is to use a 4 wire transfer switch where the neutral gets switched and connected properly.

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