Internal UK 3-pin 240v Socket

[SteveR]

For anyone considering swapping out the OEM 2-pin internal mains socket for a UK 3-pin socket I can confirm that it is an easy 5 minute job no more difficult than changing a plug (remember those days )

The only issue I had was that the new socket that I ordered, I thought was black but arrived grey so I shall swap again once I source a black unit. These are the steps I took:
1. Unplug mains lead and switch off at isolator switch
2. Gently lever off the switch cover surround that goes around the three units (Light switch, USB socket and mains socket)
3. Remove the four screws holding the mains socket in place
4. Remove 2-pin socket and replace with UK 3-pin (make sure to use a backing box to cover the inside electrics)
5. Screw new socket in place and replace trim
6. Test with a socket tester

There are loads of sockets available. Just google 'c-line socket'. I used...
Socket and Backing Box

 

[Epigram]

Thanks SteveR.
I was hoping someone would post a picture with the cover plate removed.
I have not been happy with the two pin plug adapter arrangement because some adapters don’t connect the earth if inverted.
I therefore usually check with a socket tester kept in the van and left on the socket adapter.
Changing the socket over to a UK plug is a safer solution.
A black three pin socket is now on order and I can get my socket tester back.

The cost of the socket is a few pounds and not much more than an adapter. Why can’t Westfalia or dealers fit a UK socket to UK cars?
PS I have uploaded a rear view of the cover plate so that the location of clips and lever points can be seen to ease removal.

 

[Steve B]

Agree with epigram; there is no real cost to using a three pin when installing, why it wasn't done is strange.

 

[Brian Drought]

Fab. Glad the plate comes off easily. I was contemplating fitting a dual USB charger there instead of the single.

 

[SteveR]

Fab. Glad the plate comes off easily. I was contemplating fitting a dual USB charger there instead of the single.

Good shout. Makes sense. I never thought of that

 

[Epigram]

Fab. Glad the plate comes off easily. I was contemplating fitting a dual USB charger there instead of the single.

Aghh ! You’ve started something. I’m now searching the net for a black dual USB so that the iPad and phone can charge and be tucked in the seat pocket.

 

[Brian Drought]

@Epigram

Would this work?

C-Line Twin USB Socket (1x 5V 1A, 1x 5V 2.1A)

C-Line Twin USB Socket (2 x 5v 1.5a) available at Caravan Accessory Shop.

www.caravanaccessoryshop.co.uk

I assume it just has constant 12v behind there?

 

[Brian Drought]

I've got a suspicion that the standard USB charger is just a c line blanking plate drilled out and a charger mounted on it.

Would like to replace the roof one with a double too but haven't got a scooby how to remove it!

 

[SteveR]

Would like to replace the roof one with a double too but haven't got a scooby how to remove it!

For the roof one, I'd just go with something like this

 

[Epigram]

@Epigram

Would this work?

C-Line Twin USB Socket (1x 5V 1A, 1x 5V 2.1A)

C-Line Twin USB Socket (2 x 5v 1.5a) available at Caravan Accessory Shop.

www.caravanaccessoryshop.co.uk

I assume it just has constant 12v behind there?

Saw one cheaper on E Bay but that’s neater

 

[Epigram]

For the roof one, I'd just go with something like this

In view of the (potential) problems with roofs and closing a free standing splitter is probably a better bet.
Then you only need to worry about being strangled when jumping out of bed at night!