[A/S] Bonding (was Panic) {Long, but worth it.} ;^)>

["Matt Worner" <wornmatt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Okay gang, lets put the subject into perspective.  If your electric 
system is properly wired then the trailer is grounded through the 
power cord.  (Perhaps that should be IF and PROPERLY).  That is one 
of the prime reasons for a three wire plug on the rig.  Those of us 
with some of the older rigs may have a tell tale light near the cable 
entrance.  (Being a vintage kind of guy I am not sure about newer 
rigs.  Note also that most of my trailers are vintage as well.)  
This is to indicate that the (two prong) plug is reversed 
and that your trailer shell is hot/energised/electrified or in a 
word, dangerous.  It is also an indication, if you have a three prong 
plug, that somewhere, somehow something is facaca.  (Facaca is a highly 
technilogical term used in the industry to indicate that something 
is facaca.  It has the same root word as a baby's nappy.)  If you don't 
know anything about line voltage electricity it is time to consult a 
pro.  Have him make sure the panel has an isolated ground bonded to 
the shell of the trailer.  If he doesn't know what that is kick him 
in the butt and find another pro who does.  

Every trailerist should carry a receptacle tester (looks like a plug 
with neon lights where the wires would be) and test the campsite 
plug before hooking up.  If the receptacle doesn't check out, MOVE.  If 
you don't have one on board, go to your nearest home center and get one 
(preferably the kind with a ground fault tester, it's worth the 
extra money).  I keep mine in a 30amp/15amp adaptor so I can test 
either/both outlet(s).  For you guys with the big honkin' 50 amp 
plugs, get the proper hardware and make an adapter to test both 
legs.  If I ever get a tuit without all the corners (a round tuit) I plan 
on making one up, but since I have no immediate need...

You could save the life of yourself or a loved one.  Most important 
the loved one could be me!

Matt