Converter issue

[jchiar]

I have a 2013 Palomino Stampede and while camping this weekend the main electrical panel started smoking. I immediately unplugged everything. None of the AC or D.C. Fuses blew.
It has a WFCO WF-8900 distribution center.

AC was set to 70 and nothing being overdrawn from the AC circuits.

I am thinking the converter went.

But why? Are there any issues or recalls that I can find out about? This is only maybe 3 seasons old.

[SeaDog]

Converters are like any electrical equipment sometimes they just give up the ghost have to stop here pop-up is killing my typing

[AquaMan]

Originally Posted by jchiar

I have a 2013 Palomino Stampede and while camping this weekend the main electrical panel started smoking. I immediately unplugged everything. None of the AC or D.C. Fuses blew.
It has a WFCO WF-8900 distribution center.

AC was set to 70 and nothing being overdrawn from the AC circuits.

I am thinking the converter went.

But why? Are there any issues or recalls that I can find out about? This is only maybe 3 seasons old.

The WFCOs have been known to do exactly that. When replacing, I would go with a Progressive Dynamics. Much better quality and charging features. Many will replace the WFCO right off the bat and keep it as an emergency backup, knowing that it will eventually quit.

[Skyliner]

When you replace your converter, take the time and effort to relocate the converter within several feet of your battery bank. It will recharge your batteries faster. Not a requirement if you never dry camp.

[jchiar]

Originally Posted by AquaMan

The WFCOs have been known to do exactly that. When replacing, I would go with a Progressive Dynamics. Much better quality and charging features. Many will replace the WFCO right off the bat and keep it as an emergency backup, knowing that it will eventually quit.

When you replace it with the progressive dynamics unit, where would you mount it? I am guessing it won't fit in the existing black box. Guessing it still needs to wire to the existing D.C. Fuse panel. Thanks

[Skyliner]

I would mount it as close as possible to the battery and run the pendant inside,

[jchiar]

Originally Posted by Skyliner

I would mount it as close as possible to the battery and run the pendant inside,

Sorry what's the pendant?

[jchiar]

I read the Progressive Dynamics is a swap in replacement. Does it literally go where the other one was?

[Skyliner]

Charge Wizard PD92201 Remote Pendant

Many factory converters are integrated with the ac and dc power distribution panel. There is usually enough room to install one in the space where the power distribution panel is located.

However, as stated, it is best to mount it next to the battery not 15-25 feet to the rear of them.

Plenty of you tube videos on replacing one. Make sure you disconnect the battery(ies) before you attempt.

[TURBS]

Originally Posted by jchiar

I read the Progressive Dynamics is a swap in replacement. Does it literally go where the other one was?

Yes progressive makes a drop in replacement.

Boondocker also makes a drop in replacement

http://www.bestconverter.com/55-Amp-...l#.V5XwvfQ8LCQ

http://www.bestconverter.com/PD4655T...l#.V5Xw7fQ8LCQ


I recommend the boondocker if you go with the drop in replacement.


2015 Columbus 320RS
2008 2500HD Duramax
2015 nights camped "34"
2016 nights camped "14"

[jchiar]

Thanks for the links

[Mr Havercamp]

I'll second the Powermax Boondocker..........


As far as relocating your converter closer to the battery, that would not be easy on a Stampede for what little benefit you would get....if any. You would have to rewire or extend all your AC wiring, or add a dedicated AC panel. Its not like you're talking half a mile of cable between the converter and battery, at the most its 15'. I know in our Rockwood they used a heavy gauge cable out to the battery, I am guessing its an 8. I don't think shortening it any would benefit anything to the point it would be noticable.

Just get one of the retrofit kits and throw it in the WFCO housing. It took all of 5 minutes to install the Powermax on our Roo.

[jchiar]

Yes, that is what I am doing. I don't dry camp at all so I see no benefit of moving it either.

[jchiar]

As far as the Boondocker over the Progressive, any reason why? TIA

[TURBS]

When talking to Randy at best converter he recommended the boondocker of the pd.

Pm Mountndream he has one.


2015 Columbus 320RS
2008 2500HD Duramax
2015 nights camped "34"
2016 nights camped "14"

[jchiar]

I spoke to them too and the recommended that model too.

But I also just called Progressive dynamics and their unit has thermal protection with two fans.
Plus they are made and serviced in the USA.

[TURBS]

You can go wrong with either [emoji6]


2015 Columbus 320RS
2008 2500HD Duramax
2015 nights camped "34"
2016 nights camped "14"

[jchiar]

Thanks for the suggestions. I was actually contacted by WFCO and they are replacing the unit. Ill put my money into a surge suppressor / line conditioner in the mean time.