Mains Plug Inlet Box Broken

[Gail-force]

Hi all, my mains plug inlet box isn't working. It looks OK but when plugged in, the connection/plug is a bit loose (it usually clicks in) I was wondering if there was a sort of deadman switch inside (the aforementioned click) and if it's snapped off, might this be the reason I can't get mains electric into my van? The one on the van is a replacement to the original which we fitted last year. Thanks

 

[meanders]

If it's loose, one or more connections may not be making as the cable may have pulled out of the terminal. As it's an inlet, highly unlikely there is a safety switch.

First thing is to try another lead if you can borrow one for two minutes. It's usually the flying part rather than the fixed that has issues. Or dismantle and check the connections both ends of your lead.

It's also important that all three metal pins are a good fit into the sockets.

I assume that you have checked the RCD in the van has not dropped?

 

[meanders]

Also. If you have a multimeter, do a continuity check on your lead. Get the plug and socket ends together. Easy to sit with them between your legs with the cable on the floor. Have the meter on 'resistance' and put one probe onto a pin at the plug end of the cable and the other to the equivalent pin in the socket end. (Note that the smaller pins will appear on opposite sides). Measured resistance should be tiny. It helps if someone can hold open the sprung cover, but still doable by yourself.

 

[Gail-force]

Thanks for the info I'm going to ask the husband to check out your ideas

 

[Jimbohorlicks]

It may just all want tightening up. They are easily replaced if you know what make it is just look up the part number on Google. The worst case will be getting at it from the inside of the van, a hands and knees job most probably and long arms .

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[Gail-force]

Hi all, just thought I'd give an update. On closer inspection the "prongs" had been pushed through the back of the unit (OMG!) The back is just flimsy plastic, so we fabricated a thicker plastic plate to cover it and re-assembled the unit. Works a treat again, but I think I'll buy another as a spare.

 

[Jimbohorlicks]

If your buying another ,then I would use that to replace and keep the old one as a back up. Which you will probably never need again