[A/S] Re: 7 pin plug & Solar collector

["overlander_64" <overlander64@xxxxxxxxx>]

Greetings Ted!

When AJL Solar installed the solar panel array, inverter, and solar 
charge controller, they advised that there was no need for revisions 
to the charge circuit wiring in the umbilical cord.  This was nearly 
four seasons back, and I have had absolutely no problems related to 
this situation.

When I purchased both my '64 Overlander and '78 Argosy Minuet, I 
rewired the Bargman plug to match the schematic used in the moder 
tow vehicles which does not match either the mid-60s nor late-70s 
wiring schematic utilized by Airstream.  

Your '79 Tradewind is likely virtually identical in regard to its 
umbilical wiring as my '78 Argosy Minuet (see:  
http://www.airstream.com/airstream/product_line/customer_service/docs/7wayplug1966-81.pdf).  
I made sure to connect the backup lights and 
all other circuits, but only to the terminals as specified in the 
modern Bargman plug wiring standard (see:  
http://www.marksrv.com/wiring.htm).  The one thing to remember is 
that the color coding used by Airstream doesn't correspond to the 
current standard so it is necessary to place the wires in the modern 
standard locations based upon function rather than color.  After 
following this process (I added a step and verified the function of 
each wire with a 12-volt garden tractor battery), all lights 
function properly including backup lights and I get at least some 
charging from the tow vehicle while underway.

Good luck with your project!

Kevin D. Allen
WBCCI/VAC/Free Wheelers/Computer Club #6359
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban (7400 
VORTEC/4.10 Differentials)
1978 Argosy Minuet 6.0 Metre/1975 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (8.2 
Liter V8/2.70 Final Drive)