Converter Charger

[Toyman]

Are there any issues using my old 55A converter as a battery charger in my shop?

[valleyduo]

I would say probably not, but it's not the most efficient way to go. You'll either have to hardwire it to shop wiring/breaker or rig up an extension cord to make it a plug in. You'll lack any charge status indication so you'll have to disconnect to check charge levels and reconnect if still low. If all you want is a charger, I think your better buying one. Most offer charge status, desulfate, and automatically switch to a maintainer mode once the battery is charged.

[bikendan]

I agree. Not worth it, instead of a standard battery charger.

[TitanMike]

If I had an working charger/converter that I removed to upgrade to a newer multi-stage type why not use it as a shop charger. Replace 120 v wires with a regular pigtail and plug. A chunk of an old extension cord works as long as it includes the plug end. Add longer wire to the output and add some inexpensive battery clamps.

Look at what one would have to pay for a far inferior 55 amp battery charger and then re-ask the question.

Only thing you would really need to add is a Voltmeter and they are relatively inexpensive. Can even adapt one that would ordinarily plug in to a cigarette lighter socket.

[Jeffjeeptj]

Not sure what brand converter you have. The WFCO in my newer trailer states it is a 3 stage unit based on battery voltage when pluged in. I purposely drew down my battery state of charge, but, did not see any voltage change.

I purchased an IOTA with an IQ4, and it will chnge the output voltage and act like a true charger.

I play with a lot of 12 volt stuff on my wokbench, so I set up a connection point at my bench using the IOTA as a power supply. Much easier than hauling a battery around.

With the IQ4 unplugged, i get a constant 13.4 volts.

[babock]

I took a brand new WFCO out of my trailer and sold it on eBay. I would not use it as a bench charger because its not a good charger to begin with! It's the reason I took it out!