Winnebago Adventurer 2023 ELECTRICAL User Manual

ELECTRICAL CAUTIONS

Careless handling of electrical components can be fatal. Never touch or use electrical components or appliances while feet are bare, while hands are wet, or while standing in water or on wet ground.
Improper grounding of the vehicle can cause personal injury. Do not plug the utility power cord into an outlet which is not grounded and do not adapt the plug to connect to a receptacle for which it is not designed. Do not attach an extension cord to the utility power cord. Be sure that all electrical appliances to be used contain 3-prong plugs for proper grounding.
Avoid overloading electrical circuits. Replace fuses or circuit breakers with those of the same size and amperage rating only. Never use a higher rated fuse or breaker.
Use caution when handling or working near electrical storage batteries. Always remove jewelry and wear protective clothing and eye covering. Avoid creating sparks.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM – HOUSE 120-VOLT AC
The 120-volt system operates from the shoreline cord connected to an outside 120-volt utility service, such as those at campgrounds or from the 120-volt generator. When the shoreline cord is connected to an outside power source, or when the auxiliary electric generator is running, the power converter automatically changes a portion of the 120-volt current to 12-volt DC current. All equipment in the motorhome that is normally powered by the house batteries is then powered through the converter. In addition, the following equipment is entirely dependent on 120-volt current: air conditioner, microwave oven, and any 120-volt electrical equipment used at convenience outlets.

POWER CORD – EXTERNAL

(Shoreline)
The external power cord (commonly referred to as a “shoreline”) is stored in the utility compartment on the left (driver’s) side of the motorhome.

WARNING
Do not use an extension cord. Improper sized cords, damaged cords, and poor connections can lead to fire, which can result in death or serious injury.

WARNING
Do not connect the external power cord to any receptacle until you have verified proper polarity and grounding. Be sure all prongs of the supply cord are properly plugged into the receptacle. Failure to observe can result in death or serious injury.

The power cord is designed to ground the electrical system through the receptacle. It is also designed to carry the amperage output of most campground outlets. If the electrical receptacle to be used is designed to mate with the prongs of the power cord plug, the electrical connection can be expected to carry a rated load.

Connecting the Power Cord

To connect to an external source, remove the cord from the utility compartment and plug it into a suitable power outlet to provide external power to the motorhome and converter/charger system.
Your motorhome may be equipped with either a standard 30-amp system or an optional 50-amp system.

NOTE: Some parks do not have 50-amp service available, so you will need to connect to a standard 30-amp service pole using an adapter.
If your motorhome is equipped with standard 30-amp system, you cannot connect to a 50-amp service. Do not use adapters to connect 30-amp systems to a 50-amp service or you may cause an overload on electrical system components.

30 Amp Receptacle

WARNING
This connection is for 110/125 Volt AC, 60 Hz 30 Ampere supply.
Do not exceed circuit rating. Exceeding the circuit rating may cause a fire and result in death or serious injury.

WARNING
This connection is for 208Y/120-Volt or 120/240 Volt AC, 3-pole, 4 wire, 60 Hz 50 Ampere supply.
Do not exceed circuit rating. Exceeding the circuit rating may cause a fire and result in death or serious injury.

A rotating hatch in the compartment floor lets you route the shoreline cord through a passage in the bottom of the compartment so you can shut the compartment door while the shoreline is connected.

Flip the retainer in the center of the cover straight up.
Rotate the cover to the largest hole to pass the cord end through.
Then rotate to the smaller opening to enclose the cord.

The power cord is designed to ground the electrical system through the receptacle. It is also designed to carry the amperage output of most campground outlets. If the electrical receptacle to be used is designed to mate with the three prongs on the power cord plug, the electrical connection can be expected to carry rated load.

WARNING
Service inlet access must be closed when utility connections are not in use.

Park Fuses or Breakers
Most campgrounds are equipped with a fuse or circuit breaker at the receptacle (which we recommend shutting off before engaging or disengaging the power cord.) This protects the park’s wiring, as well as the power cord on your vehicle from electrical damage. If electrical power fails, contact the park attendants and have them check the fuse or breaker for your supply receptacle.

INVERTER/CHARGER UNIT – 2000W

–If Equipped
The 2000-watt inverter/charger has an AC input circuit breaker to protect the inverter/charger from overloads. The inverter/charger also has “built-in” features that protect the system from abnormal conditions. See the inverter/charger information included in your InfoCase for a complete explanation of the system and operating instructions.
NOTE: The inverter is not intended for steady use while “dry camping”. Batteries will deplete quickly with the use of the inverter. The inverter is intended for limited, short-term power usage when not connected to shoreline or generator power. The inverter can also be used while driving the motorhome because the engine alternator will charge the batteries while driving.

The inverter/charger unit is located in the utility compartment or mid-passenger side compartment, depending on the model.

NOTICE
Do not store items too closely around the inverter unit in the storage compartment. The inverter generates heat while operating and needs unrestricted airflow for proper cooling. Damage to the inverter can result.

The inverter converts 12-volt DC current from the house batteries into 120-volt AC current for use by 120-volt AC equipment in the motorhome.

Charging Section
While connected to 120-volt external power, the inverter/charger will recharge the house batteries using a 3-stage battery charger. It will also supply 12-volt DC current for use by 12-volt equipment in the motorhome. If the house batteries have been significantly discharged, they will accept charge at a relatively high amperage rate. If they are only slightly discharged, they will charge at a lower amperage rate. The rate of charge will decrease as the batteries reach full charge, then will continue “trickle” charging at a very low amperage rate.
The inverter/charger features a Battery Saver™ Mode, which is designed to keep batteries fully charged over long periods of time. See the inverter/charger information included in your InfoCase for more information on this feature. If the batteries do not charge as described above, it is possible the batteries are defective. If the batteries are extremely discharged, the charger may not be able to recharge the batteries.

NOTE: Do not leave the shoreline plugged in during storage. Follow regular battery inspection and maintenance.

Inverter/Charger Control Panel
Controls to the inverter are accessed through the monitor panel. It will also indicate warnings for overload conditions or other operating failure conditions. From the main menu select the battery section, then select the inverter to access the inverter controls.

From the main menu select the battery section and the screen with the inverter button will show in the menu.
-Typical View
When the inverter is not being used, it should be shut off at the monitor panel. The inverter could drain the house batteries if the shoreline is not connected to external power and the House/Coach Battery Disconnect switch is on. There is also an inverter/charger disconnect switch located in the exterior compartment. This switch should be turned off when the coach is not being used.

Inverter/Charger disconnect switch (located in the driver’s side 2nd exterior compartment).
-Typical View

Ensure that the inverter box power button is pushed in for the monitor panel to be able to operate the inverter.
-Typical View

Further Information
See the inverter/charger manufacturer’s user guide provided in your InfoCase for complete instructions and charging setup directions.

POWER CENTER

(Converter)
The Power Converter is generally located behind a door or pull-off panel on a lower cabinet face in either the galley/lounge area or beneath the bed, depending on model. It contains the house electrical system 120-volt circuit breakers and 12-volt circuit breakers or fuses. The Power Converter changes 120-volt AC current from the auxiliary generator or the shoreline into 12-volt DC current for use by 12-volt equipment in the motorhome.

Power Center
(Models 27N, 29B, 30T and 33C)
-Typical View

Power Center
(Models 35F,34W and 36Z)
-Typical View

Certain circuits, however, remain unchanged for use by items which require 120-volt current, such as the air conditioner(s), the refrigerator in AC mode, the microwave oven, etc.

NOTE: The converter will not change 12-volt DC current to 120-volt AC.
Current drawn from the house batteries passes through the Power Converter unchanged, although it is routed through a series of protective fuses located on the power panel.

NOTICE
Do not block the converter cover vents in any way. The converter generates heat while operating and needs unrestricted airflow for proper cooling. Damage to the converter can result.

Further Information
See the manufacturer’s operation, care, and maintenance information provided in your InfoCase.

Charging Section
The converter charges house batteries while 120-volt external power is connected. The converter will automatically “sense” the condition of the battery. If it is below “full charge”, the Charging Section will start charging the batteries. If the house batteries have been extremely discharged, they will accept charge at a relatively high amperage rate. If they are only slightly discharged, they will charge at a lower amperage rate. The rate of charge will decrease as the batteries reach “full charge”, then will continue “trickle” charging at a very low amperage rate. If your battery does not charge as described above, it is possible the battery is defective.

Thermal Overload
A thermal overload will “break” the 120-volt AC power to the converter section of the Power Center if the Power Converter becomes overheated. This can result from operating above its maximum limit for an extended period of time or by obstruction of ventilation to the unit.

NOTE: The Power Converter section will automatically route 12-volt lights and motors to house battery power in this event.

The thermal overload will reset itself after a period of time, and the lights and motors will again resume operation from the Power Converter section. If the breaker trips again shortly after resetting, take immediate steps to correct the cause of overheating. A portion of the house’s 12-volt load (lights or motors or both) should be turned off to reduce the total load. Also, inspect the Power Converter to ensure ventilation is not obstructed.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS – HOUSE 120-VOLT AC

The breaker panel protects all 120-volt components in the motorhome from either an overload on the circuit or a shortage in the wiring or component itself. When an overload or short develops, the breaker will open preventing damage to the system. Shut off the equipment (for example: roof air conditioner) and allow a brief cooling period. Then reset the breaker by moving the switch to “Off” and back to “On”. If the breaker is continually tripped and no overload is evident, have the system checked for a short in the wiring or the appliances?
The breaker panels are located behind a door or pull-off panel on a lower cabinet face in either the galley or lounge area or beneath the rear bed, depending on the model.

NOTE: Breakers are labeled on the panel.
Arrangements may vary according to appliance and equipment options.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS – HOUSE 120-VOLT AC

A number of standard household electrical outlets are provided throughout the motorhome for connecting small appliances such as televisions, radios, toasters, etc.
An exterior outlet is also located in the rear storage compartment on the passenger side of the motorhome.

GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER

Bath, galley, and exterior outlets are connected to a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter), which is an extremely sensitive circuit breaker that will help to protect against severe electrical shock if a ground fault develops. If such a condition occurs, the GFCI will break the circuit by turning off the power to the protected outlets. Should this occur, unplug all the appliances on that circuit and press the reset button on the GFCI-equipped outlet. If the GFCI keeps tripping, have the electrical system checked and repaired, if necessary, before using again?

GFCI Outlet
(Ground Fault Protector)

WARNING
The GFCI will not completely eliminate the risk of electrical shock. Infants and small children may still be affected.

ELECTRICAL GENERATOR – 120-VOLT

–If Equipped.

WARNING
Careless handling of the generator and electrical components can be fatal. Never touch electrical leads or appliances when your hands are wet, or when standing in water or on wet ground. Do not attempt to repair the generator yourself. Service should be performed by a qualified service center.

Automatic Power Transfer Switch

(available with 50-amp service only)

–If Equipped
Whenever the generator is needed, an automatic power transfer system automatically switches the household electrical system to the generator 30 seconds after the generator is started. The 30-second delay allows the generator to start easily without the burden of electrical loads.

Automatic Power Transfer Box (Located inside or behind utility compartment)
-Typical installation shown

Generator Operation
Controls to the generator are accessed through the monitor panel. See the manufacturer’s operation, care and maintenance in your InfoCase.

From the main menu select the electrical section and the screen with the generator button will show in the menu.
-Typical View

Generator Hourmeter

After selecting the generator on the monitor panel the generator hour meter will display. It registers the total number of hours that the generator has been operated.

After selecting the generator button the hour meter will display.

-Typical View
Refer to the hour meter to determine when periodic maintenance is due and to record services that have been performed.

Operation Warnings and Cautions

WARNING
The exhaust of all internal combustion engines contains carbon monoxide (CO). This poisonous gas is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and lighter than air. The exhaust systems of both your motorhome engine and your generator engine have been installed with your safety in mind. However, certain precautions must be taken when using them to protect yourself from conditions beyond the control of the manufacturer.

Do not simultaneously operate the generator and a power vent, which could draw exhaust gases into the vehicle.
Do not open windows or vents on the end or side of the vehicle where exhaust pipe of the generator is located.
Park the vehicle so that the wind will carry the exhaust away from the vehicle. Also, note the position of other vehicles to be sure their exhaust will not enter your vehicle.
Do not operate the generator engine while parked if vegetation, snow, buildings, vehicles, or any other object can deflect the exhaust under or into the vehicle.

NOTE: Check the auxiliary generator oil level frequently during periods of use.
Refer to the generator manufacturer’s maintenance information in your InfoCase for specific recommendations.

Automatic Generator Start (AGS)

-If Equipped
The Automatic Generator Start feature monitors house battery voltage and motorhome interior temperature and has the ability to automatically start the Generator to help maintain full air conditioning function and house battery charge.

WARNING
Do not run the Genset or use the Automatic Generator Start feature in
“Enabled” or “Quiet” modes when the RV is indoors or a combined space. Asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning hazards exist whenever Genset exhaust gases can accumulate.

WARNING
The Automatic Generator Start Feature is not a life support system. It can stop without warning. Children, persons with physical or mental limitations, and pets could suffer personal injury or death. A personal attendant, redundant power or alarm system must be used if Genset operation is critical.

The Automatic Generator Start feature requires an electrical safety signal input. The input is triggered when the vehicle is put in Drive and reaches a speed above 0 mph. When the vehicle is driven the AGS becomes “Locked Out” if it were previously set to Auto Operation. The AGS can once again be manually enabled once the vehicle has stopped and in a safe location. Access the screen where the “Clear Locks” button is displayed and press before being able to Enable the AGS and restore the previous settings.
The following label is located near the 120-volt house circuit breaker panel and at the Generator to warn you to disconnect specific electrical connections before servicing the Generator and storing the motorhome.

From the Electrical screen select the Generator Settings tab to open the Generator Settings Screen.
-Typical View

Generator Settings Screen
Use this screen to customize various triggers to automatically start and stop the generator. Select the down arrow for further customizations and options. The total run hours are also displayed on this screen
-Typical View

The Auto Operation Condition is displayed as Enabled, Disabled, or Locked out.
-Typical View

Select the down arrow to view the next screen.
-Typical View

On this screen use the “Clear Locks” button to clear any conditions that automatically disabled the Auto operation settings, such as the vehicle being started and moved. Any previous or new settings can be enabled once the vehicle is parked and in a safe location.
-Typical View

Selecting the down arrow again will take you to screen 3 which has the AGS (Auto Start Generator) Settings.
-Typical View

The AGS settings can also be found in the Settings section of the Connected Coach system.
-Typical View

Page 1 of the AGS shows the settings for the battery charge conditions.
-Typical View

Page 2 of the AGS shows the quiet time start and end settings (local time is used to prohibit starting the genset during quiet time settings.
-Typical View

Also on Page 2 of the AGS you can enable or disable the front and/or rear air conditioning thermostat settings.
-Typical View

Page 3 of the AGS has the generator maintenance exercise schedule settings. Please refer to the manufacturer’s maintenance information in your InfoCase for specific recommendations.
-Typical View

Quiet Time

Quiet Time is used in the event that there is a period of time during the day that generator use is not allowed or desired.
This is typical for motorcoach conventions and some RV parks. If any auto generator Start feature tries to start the generator during the time period between quiet time begin and quiet time end, the system will not allow the generator to start regardless of a feature being enabled and calling for the generator to run.

Auto-charger

The Auto-charger feature is used to maintain house battery charging automatically while dry camping, or storage. The Auto-charger constantly monitors the voltage of the batteries, and when needed, starts the generator allowing the battery charger to charge the batteries. In most cases, the system monitors the battery information via the inverter/charger. In some (in particular after-market installations), the voltage is monitored directly via the Connected Coach system. In all cases either the inverter/charger or battery charger has to be enabled to charge the instant that 120V electricity is applied to the coach, either from the generator or shore power cord. Otherwise no charging to the batteries can occur.

Detailed AGS Status page with Battery Autocharger selection.
-Typical View

Thermostat

This feature allows the AGS to automatically start the generator with the use of a thermostat to maintain temperature in hot weather.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM – HOUSE 12-VOLT DC

The DC voltage system consists of the chassis battery, the 12-volt house batteries, and the 12-volt power converter.

Converter
See “Converter” previously in this section.

Chassis Battery
The chassis battery is used to operate the engine starter and automotive accessories and controls found on the instrument panel. The electric step is also connected to the chassis battery.
Refer to your chassis manual provided in your InfoCase for further information on chassis batteries and chassis electrical system.

House Batteries
House batteries are “deep-cycle” type batteries specially designed for recreational vehicle use. They will provide longer lasting power than standard automotive starting batteries and will withstand the frequent drain-and-recharge cycles that occur under the demanding conditions of a camping outing.
The house batteries supply power to 12-volt equipment located in the living area of the motorhome. This includes the following 12-volt powered components (if equipped): interior 12-volt lighting, range exhaust fan, propane furnace fan, fresh water pump, systems monitor panel, refrigerator, roof vent fans, and 120-volt electrical generator starter.
The house batteries can also provide emergency power to start the engine if the chassis battery is discharged. (See “Battery Boost Switch” in Section 3 – Driving Your Motorhome).
House batteries are automatically charged by the chassis alternator while the engine is running.

HOUSE/COACH BATTERY DISCONNECT SWITCH

(COACH BATT)
The House/Coach Battery Disconnect switch lets you disconnect the house batteries from the 12-volt system of your motorhome during storage periods to avoid battery drain by electrical items that are hooked directly to the house batteries, such as clock displays and radio memories, etc.
Always leave this switch ON when the vehicle is in motion or in use.

NOTE: Some electronic displays and memory functions may need to be reset after power has been reconnected.

Batteries will only be charged by the converter when on shore power if the disconnect switch is ON.
NOTE: The House/Coach Battery Disconnect Switch will illuminate green whether the disconnect switch is in the on or off position when connected to shore power.

See also “Battery Care” elsewhere in this section.

House/Coach Battery Disconnect Switch (Located near entrance door)
-Typical View

BATTERY ACCESS

The house/coach batteries (and chassis batteries in certain models) are located beneath the interior entrance steps. With the Residential Refrigerator, the house batteries are accessed by a separate exterior door. Unfasten the step retainer, then lift the step upward and remove to service batteries.

– Typical View

-Typical View

CAUTION
Step cover must be closed and latched. Failure can cause injury.

BATTERY CARE

Lead-acid type batteries are electro-chemical devices for storing and releasing electrical charge. As such, they are simply an electrical reservoir, not an electrical source. As soon as energy is removed from the battery, it should be replaced by the engine alternator or the motorhome converter system.
If a battery sits unused for 30 days or more, especially during warm weather, it can develop a deposit of sulfate crystals on the metal plates inside the battery. This condition is called
“sulfating” and prevents the battery from either releasing or accepting a charge. If this condition occurs, the battery must be replaced.
If a battery does not contain at least 80% charge during freezing temperatures, the electrolyte can freeze and crack the battery case.

The two best defenses against sulfating and insufficient charge are to:

Turn off the House/Coach Battery Disconnect switch to avoid parasitic discharge (the trickle discharge caused by directly connected components like propane gas detectors or digital clock displays, etc.)
Check the battery and recharge as necessary at least once a month during long storage periods. Turn the House/Coach Battery Disconnect switch off to avoid electrical arcing when attaching or detaching charger clamps.

NOTICE
Disconnect batteries before connecting external charging equipment to avoid damage to sensitive electronic components.

WARNING
This vehicle, like other vehicles, may contain small amounts of one or more substances which are listed by the state of California for causing cancer or reproductive toxicity.

WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

NOTE: Do not leave the shoreline plugged in during storage. Follow regular battery inspection and maintenance.

Further precautions are:

Check the state of charge periodically to avoid discharge or sulfating.
To ensure that the battery will always accept and hold a charge, follow these simple maintenance practices:
Make sure the batteries always remain securely clamped in the battery tray.
Make sure battery cable clamps are tight on the terminal posts and are free of corrosion.
Neutralize corrosion buildup or acid film on top of battery by washing with a baking soda/water solution. Rinse with clear water.

NOTE: Make sure vent caps are on securely to prevent baking soda solution from entering the battery and contaminating the electrolyte fluid.

WARNING
Before removing any battery cables or battery, make sure all 12-volt equipment in the motorhome is off and the power cord has been disconnected. Be sure to replace the battery terminal boot, if supplied, back onto the positive terminal after servicing. Care must be taken to avoid pinching the cable between any metal parts. Should the cable be damaged, a short circuit could result in personal injury or damage to equipment. Replace any damaged cables at once. Always remove jewelry and wear protective clothing and eye covering when checking or handling batteries.

Clean and tighten battery terminals and have the specific gravity checked at least once a year.
Check the battery fluid level every month, or more often in hot weather. Fill to approximately 3/8 inch above the plates. DO NOT OVERFILL. If fluid is added during freezing weather, the motorhome should be driven several miles to mix water and electrolyte to prevent freezing. Fluid level check may be omitted if equipped with maintenance-free batteries.

WARNING
To prevent wiring damage, it is essential when replacing the cables on the battery, or when using a “booster” battery, that the positive post and the positive cable be attached and the negative post and negative cable be attached. The posts are marked (+) plus and (-) minus. If a “boost charger” is used while battery is in the motorhome, disconnect both battery cables before connecting the charger to avoid damage to engine electronic components. Never attempt to charge or boost a frozen battery. An explosion can occur resulting in personal injury.

Chassis Batteries
If your motorhome is going to be unoccupied for two weeks or more, Winnebago Industries® recommends disconnecting the chassis batteries in your motorhome to avoid battery discharge.
Turn the Chassis Battery Disconnect switch (located near the entrance door) to the OFF position to disconnect batteries.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS AND FUSES – HOUSE 12-VOLT DC

All 12-volt circuits and equipment in the coach area of the motorhome are protected by either a fuse panel or breaker panel. When a circuit is overloaded or a short develops in any part of the system, a fuse or breaker will shut down that circuit. If this happens, turn off all affected lights or appliances and reset the breaker or replace the fuse with a new one of equal amperage rating.

House 12-Volt Circuit Breakers
A label on the panel states the amperage rating and circuit protected for each breaker.

The circuit breaker panel is located behind a door or pull-off panel on a lower cabinet face in either the galley/lounge area or beneath the rear bed, depending on the model.

House 12-Volt Circuit Breakers
-Typical View
The fuse panel accepts only blade type plug-in fuses. Always replace fuses with those of the same amperage rating.

Battery Charge Meter
See related item under “Systems Monitor Panel” in Section 4 – Appliances and Systems.

Battery Boost Switch
See Section 3 – Driving Your Motorhome for information on the Battery Boost switch.

Automotive Chassis and House 12-Volt Circuit Breakers

A label on the Automotive Chassis and House 12-Volt Circuit Breaker panel states the amperage rating and circuit protected for each breaker.
NOTE: Breakers are labeled on panel.

Arrangement may vary according to appliance and equipment options.

Automotive Chassis and House 12-Volt Circuit Breakers (Located inside passenger compartment)
-Typical View

Reference Links

View Full User Guide: Winnebago Adventurer 2023 User Manual

Download link: https://www.winnebago.com/owners/owner-resources/manuals-and-diagrams/operator-manuals