Re-wiring from scratch

[danw23]

Morning,

I hope people are still using these message boards as I'm going to need you!  We've just picked up our first caravan.  An impulse buy, a 1966 17/4.  The intention is to keep the look and feel the same inside and out but upgrade where possible so that it lasts for as long as possible.  All my internal panelling is either ok or can be saved so aesthetically we're off to a good start.  Window seals all seem fine, so with some tlc and a bit of work on the body panels we'll be good for a respray soon.  I need some new wheels and a bit of work to the underside but that's not for this post.

I'm in the process of carefully removing the internal hard board panels where I can so that I can insulate better and sort out the odd small dent in the outer body, I'm cool with all that.  Where I need some help is to understand my electrics in detail please.  Any help will be much appreciated.

So ideally I'd like to have a 12v leisure battery stashed safely inside the van that can be used when I'm on my land (got no power there) but to be able to hook up to mains power when on campsite.  I need to install new indicator/brake/reverse lights on the back of the caravan as well as they're all knackered.

Ideally, a couple of mains powered plug sockets, a small plinth heater for when on site, plus to be able to have 3 lights that can be run off either the 12v or mains power.  I'd like to put a fridge in that can run off the battery or mains as well really.

I'm sure I'll think of more questions but for now can anyone help please? 

Thanks
Dan 

[Brian M]

Dan - Only just seen this and must go out soon. I'll get back to you later today with a start on the explanation.

[Brian M]

Dan I cannot attach the Zig files to this post so I have emailed them to you.

The Zig unit (or Powerpak) works as a transformer 240v - 12v and also as a 12v battery charger.


You need to bring a 240 volt supply into the caravan using a suitable three pin connector. From this you can wire to a distribution board with fuses or trips, and then directly to any 240v sockets, and a mains connection for the fridge.

240v lighting is not essential if you have a charging arrangement to the 12v battery as the battery will be kept topped up whenever the caravan is connected to 240v.

Separate from these circuits from the 12v Leisure Battery, feeds need to be taken to 12v interior lighting, fridge and water pump if fitted.

And finally don't forget the wiring for the rear lights, side indicators and front marker lights. These are totally separate from the other electrics, and run from the seven pin tow bar connecting plug, underneath the floor to the rear usually through a waterproof connecting block.


The routing of wires is not the same on any Safaris I have seen, but it does seem that only 12v wiring is buried behind the walls. 240v can be concealed inside cupboards and under beds etc. My advice would be to replace every wire you find behind any wall boards you may be removing just for safety.

Hope these comments help but don't hesitate to ask any questions you may still have.