DC Converter Gone

[jayco01]

Want to double check with someone that my DC converter needs to be replaced. Bought new RV/Marine battery but that was dead in 24 hours. All outlets (110) working but DC items (lights, radio, fridge...) not. Sounds like the converter to me.
If yes, two questions:
#1) What is the best and most cost effective way to get the right converter?
#2) Do I need to keep a battery hooked up if I am seasonal?

Thanx!

[georgeh]

Have you tested battery voltage with and without being hooked to shore power? Also, check the 12 volt fuses at most converters. Converters are plugged into 110 volt outlet. Does that outlet have power?

IMO converter is not the place to save $$$. I've had good luck with a couple of Progressive Dynamics replacement units.
_________________
George, Juanita and Mandie the Shar-Pei
01 F350 Dually, PSD, Superchip, K&N, Walker BTM, T-flow combo
(2) Honda 2000i
05 Carriage, Carri-Lite 32' 5er

[Motor31]

The battery can be disconnected to check for converter operation. If there are no 12 volt items working and you are on shore power, then the converter is not putting out. Check to see if you have any breakers popped as one may be protecting the converter. Like George said, look at the fuses in the unit as well as any after the converter. On my converter they are mounted on a small shelf on the unit and there are more in the same spot as the AC circuit breakers are located.

You want to have a good quality converter as saving a buck buying a smaller or cheaper one may just require changing it more often. They do burn out. You might also want to check out a charger controller when you do replace the converter. The Intellipower brand has a small plug in module that works like a smart charger for the battery, helping to keep it from overcharging the battery.

You can run without the battery but the battery also helps protect it as the battery is the main source of power for a heavy load like the furnace. The battery takes the surge and the converter then can power up to take over the running load.
_________________
Mike, Nancy and the Fuzzies
2005 MS 38 RL3
2001 Volvo MH (HDT)
2004 R1150RT (piggyback)
1996 Jeep Cherokee (toad)

[oldgasser]

When you are plugged in to shore power, the voltage across your battery terminals should be more than 13 volts if your converter is working. That, of course, assumes that you have checked all the fuses including the one on the converter itself. If you get the information off the label on the converter and look up the manufacturer on the internet, they will likely have a rebuild exchange program for less than half what a new converter would cost. IMO the rebuilts are just as reliable and long-lasting as the new ones.

Gerry
_________________
Old Gasser

[Clay L]

[CharlieRG]

This may seem like a silly question, but is the battery connected properly? Polarity! Etc.?
_________________
Whoever said you can have too much of a good thing...
Must have never had too much of a good thing!