Is it ok to make a generator patch cable with a L5-30 male 120V supply on one end by wiring the two hots together on a L14-30 female load if the circuit panel has a lockout and no 240V requirement?

Answer 1

No, what you're describing, if you're describing what you actually want to do, would cause some serious problems for you. If you'd like to discuss this further, contact me directly: a_d_kirkwood@excite.com.

Answer 2

One thing about this arrangement is that there is no positive interlock between your incoming service entrance breaker and the presumable breaker that is connected to the distribution main bus bars for the connection to the generator. Another thing that seems to be overlooked is the fact that the plug (cap) coming from the distribution panel will be a male configuration and the blades will be exposed creating a electrical hazard to anyone that might come in contact with them. By changing the cap from the distribution panel to female, will then cause the hazard to revert to the output of the generator's L14-30P connection point. Contact a local electrician in your area to talk about the pros and cons of such a setup that you are thinking about. It is all about the safety of the utility linemen that work on the line when there is a power failure and that there is no back feeding and reheating of the primary line that they are working on from your generator.

Answer 3

No, it is not safe or recommended to connect a L5-30 male plug to a L14-30 female receptacle by wiring the hots together. This can create a hazardous situation, as it bypasses the proper configuration for the circuit. It is important to use the correct plug and receptacle to match the generator's output and the load's requirements.