T&T: Troubles with a GFCI shorepower plug

[Jim Healy]

Steve,
 
I also have seen this problem.  I carry a 100' 115v extension cord that
allows me to power my fridge, directly bypassing the ship's wiring.
 
I have not had a chance to check this out on my boat, but I recently had a
conversation with another cruiser about this problem, a gentleman who's an
electrician in real life.  The cause my be as simple as the "Reverse
Polarity" circuit that the good old ABYC requires us all to have.  The
circuit is connected between the green ac ground and the white ac neutral.
If it's a bulb with a filament, that would be enough to nuisance trip a GFCI
protected 115vac shore power circuit.  In addition to some places in Canada,
we found the problem along the NY State Canal System, where many docks have
115vac outlets dockside.
 
Jim
 
Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary,
currently at Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL
AGLCA # 3767
MTOA # 3436