You can also customize the generator extension cord by choosing what plugs to add to it. The most common type of generator used in homes and businesses is a diesel generator. In this manner, you can avoid overheating the wire, which can lead to moresevere electricalproblems. . You need to make sure that the generator is equipped to handle 50 amps, as some generators are only designed to handle a lower amperage. Usually, it is advisable to choose a length that is significantly more than the intended distance it should cover. Three-prong generator cords have three large prongs that fit into three sockets on the back of the generator. Each wire has a designated spot in a 50 Amp twist-lock female connector. (Reference 2). This type of generator cord is usually black and white, but you can also find them in other colors as well. Let's say your shed is 50 feet (15 m) away from your house, and you want to power some lights and maybe a fridge. Put the red wire in the red spot or X, and put the black wire in the black hole or 'Y.'. My generator's max output is 31A. Slide it over the wires and finally onto the screws made to hold the cover to ensure it doesnt fall out. Generator Extension Cord 250-Volt 50 Amp UL Listed Generator Power Cord with Twist Lock Connectors. And finally, youll need to have the right tools and materials. Connect the Wires to the Female Plug. Twitter. Most generators have a circuit breaker with different settings for different wattage loads. In this video I will show you how to make a 50 amp generator cord. 6. First, find a 50 amp outlet on your generator. Finally, have the entire assembly professionally tested before using it. In this case, we are talking about a 50-amp generator cord. 4. A generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. You will have to correct the wire connections if you notice any spots with no continuity. This type of cord will plug into the size of the generator usually into one of the 15 or 20 amp single outlets on the side of the generator. But why bother making them when you can get them already made for less money?All brass connections, 8/3 service cord and 40 feet of freedom - and it's ready to go.Here is where they can be purchased - BougeRV40 ft Welder Extension Cord:https://amzn.to/2Xt8Wls25 ft Welder Extension Cord:https://amzn.to/3ecLyiyI've contacted the supplier and they will offer a 5% Discount Code if you use Scott123 at checkout. Once it is done correctly, tight the screws on the plug using a screwdriver or a drill machine to tighten the screws more firmly, as it is better not to take any risks. A 50 amp generator cord is designed for use with generators that have a maximum output of 50 amps. For example, if youre using a GFCI breaker, you should use a 50 amp generator cord thats rated for GFCIs. 3 Steps. We quickly and efficiently find both current and obsolete parts by utilizing our access to millions of inventory data files from major OEMs and stockists together with our online component search engine which searches both our own warehouse stock as well as the global stock available through our Trusted Supplier Network. Additionally, if the length of the cord exceeds 100 feet, additional components, such as an amplifier or additional wiring, may be required in order to supply enough current. When shopping for a generator cord, look for one that is rated for 50 amps. SO cord is not cheap and comes in different ruggedness ratings. The most common mistake is not using the proper gauge wire. This means that theyre able to produce 720 volts of AC power. Finally, if the generator being used has a voltage of 120-240, the cord must be designed to handle multiple voltages or it can become overloaded and cause an electrical fire. Clamp the cable cutter on the spot, then rotate it a few times until you feel the insulation slowly coming off. If everything looks good, you can proceed to use it on your generator. The generator should now be delivering full amps. Its going to make sure that you can use your generator safely. In case there is one, trim them using the wire cutters. Then, strip the ends of each half of the extension cord and twist them around the terminals on the 50 amp outlet. As a rule of thumb, if you see a generator with 12,000 starting watts, this usually means that this is broadly speaking a 50 amp generator. Trim the ends of the wires so they reach the terminals. Its designed to be used with single-phase generators. How To Make A Solar Panel With Aluminum Foil? With the recent advancements in technology, you may want to use , Do you often buy HID ballasts? Strip each wire using automatic wire strippers, then put a ferrule on each end. Finally, people sometimes forget to properly label the wires. Do not stretch or bunch up the wires. Another reason is that you want to connect your generator to a circuit breaker thats rated at 60 amps. I would feel comfortable using it temporarily laid on the ground as long as the proper connectors and electrical boxes are used. Second, make sure the insulation is rated for outdoor use and can handle high temperatures. It has both 30A and 50A outlets. We will outline the tools you will need and how to do the whole steps safely. What kind of wire do I need for a 50 amp generator? Extension Cords Buying Guide. Otherwise, you can use sharp wire cutters to cut the cord carefully into the desired length. Once finished with the female plug, you now need to repeat all of the above steps for the male generator cord twist lock plug. A 30 amp outlet works best with a 30 amp generator cord, so its logical that if you have a 50 amp outlet as the maximum, you need a 50 amp cord. Finally, youll need to connect the two together. In this post, well show you how to make a 50 amp generator cord. Now that the wires are free, you may need to cut off a short section of their coverings. VEVOR Heavy Duty Generator Cord, 50 Feet Generator Power Cord, 50AMP ETL Listed Cord, 12000 Watts Black Cable, SS2-50R Generator Plug, SS2-50P Extension Cord, 125/250V Generator Wire w/Portable Strap RVMATE 50 Amp 15 Feet RV/Generator Lockable Power Extension Cord, Easy Plug in Handle, 14-50P to SS 2-50R with LED Indicator, ETL Listed Screw all the wires using a screwdriver in their respective holes correctly and tightly. (Reference 3) Use an outdoor rated cable that exceeds your calculated current rating. Do you want to save money by extending your HID ballasts life? You can do so using your bare fingers since these wires are not that thick to give you hard time during the separation process. This way, you will be free to strip it down into smaller lengths. If your only going to use it here and there until you get a transfer switch you can use normal 10/3 romex. At the end of the day, the size of generator you need also depends on how much power you plan to draw from it. (4 Easy Ways), Can You Plug a Refrigerator Into a Power Strip? Remember: red and black wires are your hot wires, so the process must be carefully done; ensure the wires cannot be pulled out or fall out easily. Mount the inlet box outside the house or anywhere far away from the residence to ensure safety, and keep in mind this powerful, Installation of a long generator cable is accessible. Cut off the extra part of the wire, in case there is no chance of anyone leaving outside the plug nude, with the help of the wire cutter. Second, youll need to know what type of generator you have. For example, a large portable generator with a 50 Amp 120V/240V outlet will provide you with a maximum of 50 amp * 240V = 12,000 watts of power. If you need a 50-amp generator cord to power your RV, there are a few things you need to know. You can also bind/bundle together 3 or 4 cheap cords (1 per conductor needed) and then (cutting off the ends,) combine the 3 wires within each cord to be one conductor. FREE delivery Thu, Apr 13 on $25 of items shipped by Amazon. What Gauge Wire for 1200 Watt Amp? First, check the gauge of the wire. In the first chart, you will find the wire sizes you need for all generators; from a 500W . When you buy via our links, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Connect the other power cord to the input socket of the transfer switch. These are the red wire, the black wire and the white wire. The adapter would plug into the generator and I would use a 50 amp generator cord, which is pretty expensive. Also 30 amp RV cords are 3 wire but are factory wired for 120 volts not 240. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The bigger the generator, the more power it can produce, but this comes at a cost. These include: You should make sure that youre using a 50 amp generator cord thats rated for the same voltage as your generator. Showing all 14 results. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Generator cords are made in different sizes. You also need to be aware of the differences between the different types of generator cords. There are a few things you need to know in order to make a 50 amp generator cord. First, youll need to know the difference between 4-wire and 3-wire cables. Therefore, you can get as much as 6000 watts in total. The right cord for the generator suits what the generators most powerful outlet requires. When you remove the stripped cord and cut some of the wire, you will no longer use it to make the extension cord. Test the electrical connections, or if you have doubts about the process or connections, it is better to seek professional help. Some are manufactured for outlets and switches, others fixtures for hanging lights. When connecting the generator cord to the outlet, it is important to make sure that the connection is secure. Four-prong generator cords have four large prongs that fit into four sockets on the back of the generator. The first wire will be connected to the positive side of the generator. If you need to power big appliances or large tools, a 50 amp generator cord will give you the juice you need. The most common reason is that you want to connect your generator to a circuit breaker thats rated at 50 amps. This is important to avoid overloading both the extension cord and the generator. Is a 4 conductor cable required? You can use our cord to connect to a generator. For example, a 14-gauge cord can carry up to 15 amps and 125 volts, while a 10-gauge cord can carry up to 30 amps and 250 volts. This type of generator cord is designed to be used with two-phase generators. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Steps to Make a 240v 30 Amp Extension Cord. Tighten everything down to be sure. Compare. The cord ends will need to be changed. Mount the inlet box outside the house or anywhere far away from the residence to ensure safety, and keep in mind this powerfulgenerators safety precautions. The length of a 50 amp generator cord will depend on the gauge of wire used to create the cord. A generator cord is not using the wire sizes you need to off. Going to use, do you often buy HID ballasts generator and I would feel using... Is rated for GFCIs the same voltage as your generator safely cutters to cut the cord include: you use. You should use a how to make a 50 amp generator cord amp generator cord to have the right tools and materials are talking about 50-amp... Will be free to strip it down into smaller lengths free delivery Thu Apr! 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