240v connection best practice

[MagicWagon]

My current 240v hook up consists of a double 3 pin socket in the van connected to male 3 pin commando type plug which dangles from a lead just inside the back bumper. I found where the cable goes through the commando socket lets water in so the plug, and the socket I plugged it into got drenched. I'd like to move this plug and also make any other recommended upgrades. I see a lot of people put it inside the number plate flap which would mean drilling holes in the flap. Is that the best option or are there any other alternatives. Should I also add some kind of RCD device and/or a fuse box.

[itchyfeet]

Wherever you put it make sure you connect earth to the van and fit an RCD as close to the inlet as you can inside the van.
Fuse box yes, mcbs better, right diameter cables

[MagicWagon]

Should I earth bond direct from the inlet plug socket to the van chassis, from the consumer unit, or both ?

[itchyfeet]

don't think it matters as long as it's bonded to earth but the close to the inlet is preferable.

I didn't do it at first and got a small shock off the van when the inlet plug was wet, mains was leaking via the water to the van, through me to ground.

You should try to plug into an RCD power socket on campsites, many have them now but not all hence why you should have one inside, if it is close to the van inlet plug then there is less risk of a fault being upstream of the RCD.

[MagicWagon]

Thanks for that.
Bought some of the bits at toolstation today and ordered some more online.
I can see the biggest problem I will have is if I can't fit the inlet socket on the number plate flap. I bought one from toolstation, but it was massive and would foul on the oil filler and/or big plastic tube thingy which goes across the hole.
I don't really want cut a hole in the side of the van for a flush mount one, so I'm hoping the one I have ordered online will fit. The photos I have seen where people have fitted it on the flap seem to have more clearance inside the van than I do, maybe that's an Aircooled thing.

[itchyfeet]

Best practice is not to use IP44 plugs and sockets we should all be using IP67 then you can leave it outside anywhere, as you bring the lead to the campsite you can have the mating IP 67 socket ( 5th pic) on your connecting lead they will fit IP44 also ( but won't seal) as you can see in the 4th pic.

Ip67 plugs have a locking ring and seal (clearly you fit a plug to the van NOT a socket)



I had planned to fit an IP67 plug here (ip44 mock up) and even bought a spare grill to cut up...



but as with many plans it never happened so I have one here until it does....





IP67 plug and socket

[irishkeet]

itchyfeet

I really like your idea (didnt even know about this plug!)

Can you let me know what you used to bring it through the floor?


cheers
irishkeet

[bluebus1987]

Looks to be a standard cable gland. They cost pennies.