[A/S] Wiring...stranded or solid

["frank_idaho" <frank-id@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Wiring decisions are made mostly after financial considerations. 
There is little performance difference between solid and stranded
wire.   The silver plated wiring is done so as to improve electron
flow.  Some one said silver prevents corrosion.......look at old
silver ware.  Silver attracts corrosion, but it improves conductivity.
 Electron flow occurs on the outside of a conductor.   This is true
with every strand of wire.  Aluminium wire is OK for wiring, but some
special procedures are required.  Aluminium wire, as all aluminium,
expands and contracts a large percentage of it's size, in relationship
to any current rate.  The terminations of aluminium require special
conductivity paste or a copper pigtail be connected before any
mechanical connection.  Airstream trailers ride very smoothly and do
not generate high frequencys that may abrade the insulation on wiring.
 History is a good reflection of longivity of romex and solid wire in
a RV.  Most electrical failures occur at the terminations not in the
run.  Romex insulation is very tough   but sensitive to high temps. 
The largest electrical failure in Airstreams is the dc fuses from poor
connection or loose terminations.  Condensation also contributes to
poor terminations...   Frank