Noob ... power in on 1988 Sedan Bridge

[Captain Garry Coats]

So there are THREE ac power in connectors on the starboard side of the 1988 Sedan Bridge. From left to right, LINE 1 - LINE2 - ???
What does the third / far right ??? line do that the other two don't?
What is it's purpose and why should it be used? What is the advantage?
The inside panel has a LINE1 and LINE2 section and current to the third ??? line appears to go to the LINE1 panel only.
Apologies but I don't have a manual handy.
Also, can you use a 50 amp cord and use a 1-50amp to 2-30amp splitter to use only 1 shore power line? Anybody know who sells such a splitter?

Capt GC

 

[Stee6043]

Easy thing first - West Marine or Amazon will sell the 50A/30A splitters. Very common, though pricey. You may find you need to be judicious in what appliances you use when splitting a single 50A. No microwave while the AC is running, for example.

Second - I'd wager a bet that your third shore power connection is not original. I'm wondering if something happened to the OEM Line 1 and rather than fix it the prior owner just added a new one? You say the ??? connection goes to Line 1 on your panel?

I'd want to be sure the setup is safe. If there is something fried on the Line 1 side you'll want to make sure that plug isn't connected to anything inside the boat.

 

[Lazy Daze]

You don't mention what model you have, but you can most likely download an owner's manual on Sea Ray's website.

It definitely appears something was altered over the years. The most efficient course of action might be to ask the prior owner what's going on.

Other than that, I agree with the above. What makes the most sense (although sometimes previous owners are not known for their "sense") is there was an issue with the original line and a substitute was installed. I also agree that it's important to get this figured out and checked out to be sure everything is safe. For example, is the original Line 1 still connected anywhere? Did the installer use marine, stranded wire or solid, house wiring? If any of this is something you are not comfortable with - or even if it's just on the fringe of your expertise - it would be a wise investment to have a pro look at it. A possible boat fire is not something to take chances on.

 

[techmitch]

May sound crazy, but I've seen it done before. Is it possibly to power up another boat when away from
shore power/anchored out while you're running your generator?

 

[bahamabreisus]

Is it possible the 3rd is the cable TV and phone hookup