converter charger

[Lourich80]

Is Progressive Dynamics PD4560 Inteli-Power 4500 Series AC/DC Distribution Panel - 60 Amp a good replacement for Parallax 555?

[TitanMike]

If you want to replace the entire power distribution panel it's a good unit.

If the distribution panel is in good shape, and you have room near your batteries (or in a DRY compartment fairly close) another option would be to just purchase a Progressive Dynamics PD9160 which is a stand alone converter/charger. Just plug it in and connect to the battery feed to the power distribution center/panel. This way the only wiring you'll need to mess with will be the 120 vac wire needed to feed the converter and two wires to connect to battery. Changing a distribution panel requires changing over all 120 vac wires and all the 12 V connections.

Some might question my recommending the PD9160 that doesn't come with the Charge Wizard. Reason is that the Charge Wizard can be added as a $28 plug in option if you want to be able to manually force the charger into Boost mode (like when running a generator). Even better though is that should you ever decide to add LiFePo batteries this converter can be converted to a Lithium Battery Charger by simply plugging in a simple $7.95 module into the same TCMS port the Charge Wizard was plugged into and Bob's your Uncle, you have a 14.6 volt Lithium battery charger. No need to purchase a new converter.

If you elect to save the Power Distribution Panel you have and install a stand alone converter, it's best if you can install it really close to the batteries and connect with larger wire than comes standard. This will minimize voltage drop between charger and batteries allowing the charger to maintain the highest charge rates longer rather than being fooled into switching into the lower absorbtion and float levels. Translation? Batteries will charge quicker.

Short answer to your question, yes, Progressive Dynamics Converter/chargers are good units.