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Vantare Powerlink AS Remote Ctrl Circuit Breakers
Folks,
I learned today that in 2013 SquareD discontinued support for their Powerlink AS product line. This is the product used in my 2004 Vantare to remotely control the 120VAC circuit breakers. Their new follow-on product is the Powerlink G3. I don’t know how compatible G3 is with AS, but from my short conversation with SquareD today I’m not hopeful. I’m thinking it might be a good idea to scan about to stock up on some Powerlink AS parts. I’m not quite sure which components my Vantare uses but it definitely does use the QOB115AS line of remote control circuit breakers, and probably the Powerlink Power Interface Module, and a Programmable Control Module. I’m not at the bus so I can’t poke around to see exactly what it uses. Anyone know what Powerlink AS components Vantare used, where I might find replacements, and what upgrade paths to supported products might exist? Thanks.
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6 Replies
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David, I am hoping Ben Cummings sees your post and responds. If not try to get hold of him at Parliament because he or Donny Meyers are the go to guys for Vantare coaches.
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Thanks Jon,
I sent off an email to Ben. I know these guys, Ben and Donny, are busy and I really don’t want to add to their workload; hence, my questions to the forum. As I learn more I’ll be sure to keep PC up to date.
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I’m sure Ben knows given I think he once worked there. I did a search and it seems like getting new or reburbished breakers isn’t a problem. eBay had several and these 2 places looked like good places. I also looked for controllers. There are many on eBay, some new. The prices are all over the map for the controllers.
http://www.circuitbreakerwarehouse.com/Square-D-SQD-QOB115AS-Circuit-Breaker-Refurbished-p/qob115as.htm
http://www.circuitbreakerservice.com/Square-D-SQD/QOB115AS_product_info.html
Before you have a failure of a controller, it might be worth while seeing what your options are for changing out the panel and breakers. It’s always good to know before you need to know.
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Dave,
As of two months ago, I found the relays you are looking for on ebay. I have deleted the receipt so I cannot give you the name of the company/person but they were used and not new. They were re-built and worked perfectly. To my knowledge, you cannot by new ones.
Good luck!
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Sorry for the response delay on the subject…it’s been a crazy week for me.
The component parts that are likely to fail, as with ALL circuit breakers, are the motorized breakers. If I owned one of these coaches, I would have at least 2 of the 15-amp, 2 of the 20-amp, and 2 of the 30-amp sizes for spares.
As for the Power Interface Module, if you are really concerned, you could purchase one, but these are VERY LOW failure items. The Vantare setup did not utilize the Programmable Controller interface panel that was available. The Breaker Interface Module (and all the components that make it up) and Upstairs Breaker Switch panel make up the “User interface” for controlling the motorized breakers.As far as fixing/upgrading/updating the system, it shouldn’t be necessary unless there is major component failure. I have replaced the entire system after an unqualified “technician” got into one on a coach that came in and burned up all the communication modules in the Breaker Interface Module box. Please!, don’t let ANYONE (except at this point myself or Donnie) even open up the Breaker Interface Module in the bay, or the Upstairs Breaker Switch panel. Lack of knowledge can cost you a bunch, as most of these items are no longer available and were custom-ordered and assembled by Vantare.
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Thanks everyone for your recommendations and guidance. I did speak with Parliament Coach and they assure me that an upgrade path is available and they also advised me as to what Powerlink AS parts might be worth collecting. 🙂
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