Converter problem?

[shammer]

we now own a 27 forest river, lexington, and all was well until yesterday when the low voltage light came on, the panel showed 1/3 charge to the batteries,( all of this happening while it was plugged in), so today we replaced he 2 batteries, and he battery man said the converter was not charging enough, so we took to a RV dealer for a 'check out'. Is it better to keep the unit "on" or not? and do converters just pick a day to go out? Also, while at the battery shop we tried to start the generator and it sounded like it wanted to, but would not start. Ideas?

[jfran304]

When you attempted to start your generator how much fuel did you have in your tank? If the fuel level was too low it won't start.

Jon

[RustyJC]

First, since this is your post #1,

If your RV has a single output "dumb" converter, it can overcharge the batteries and boil them dry in a matter of a few days or weeks at most if left plugged in continuously.

On the other hand, if you have a multistage output "smart" converter such as the Progressive Dynamics 91XX series with Charge Wizard or 92XX series (XX = output amperage rating), the converter will taper off the charging voltage as the batteries recharge. With the PD9180 converter and Charge Wizard, we leave our 5th wheel plugged in 24/7 while it's in storage and only have to add water to the batteries perhaps twice a year, even in the SE Texas heat.

It sounds like your converter has packed it in. If the service facility verifies that, here's your opportunity to upgrade to a "smart" converter as a replacement. It's well worth it!!

And, yes, converters can quit any time, usually at the most inopportune times. Our first converter failure was in the Gatlinburg, TN area in late October 1996 with nighttime temperatures in the low 40s. The tipoff was when the furnace quit running in the middle of the night when the coach batteries discharged!!

Rusty

[shammer]

that is one thing I did think of, the tank is3/4

[wa8yxm]

What converter do you have? A very popular uint, not all that long ago, Was the Magnetek 6300,, This is a combined unit, it is a single assembly that contains the main breaker box, the main fuse panel and the converter all in one.

It's also junk.

If that's what you have, or one like it,, I would recommend you visit http://www.bestconverter.com and check out upgrades.. I like the Progressive Dynamics 9200 or 9100 with optional Chrge Wizard. Xantrex True Charge also gets good reviews.