Converter Failure

[tcrat15]

Recently picked up a 2023 Salem Hemisphere
356QB. We plugged in and set up for 7 days after taking delivery, and on the 7th day, white smoke presented above the fridge and bench over the power supply system. Turned all the breakers off and started to look for a potential fire. When I pulled the top off the bench covering the electrical connections, I noticed the converter was billowing smoke. Saw some greasy solution on the connections and figured one of the capacitors blew while plugged in. Dealer said the same and covered it under warranty. Has anyone had a similar experience in a brand new fifth wheel? We've had it for 7 days and have already had the converter burn itself up with no warning signs, the fridge stop working (average 50 degrees during the day), and a water leak due to lack of quality control from the factory in the aft bathroom shower (onto the interior wall).
Converter: WFCO WF-9855-AD
Auto-Detect Power
Converter, 55A Output

[TitanMike]

Originally Posted by tcrat15

Recently picked up a 2023 Salem Hemisphere
356QB. We plugged in and set up for 7 days after taking delivery, and on the 7th day, white smoke presented above the fridge and bench over the power supply system. Turned all the breakers off and started to look for a potential fire. When I pulled the top off the bench covering the electrical connections, I noticed the converter was billowing smoke. Saw some greasy solution on the connections and figured one of the capacitors blew while plugged in. Dealer said the same and covered it under warranty. Has anyone had a similar experience in a brand new fifth wheel? We've had it for 7 days and have already had the converter burn itself up with no warning signs, the fridge stop working (average 50 degrees during the day), and a water leak due to lack of quality control from the factory in the aft bathroom shower (onto the interior wall).
Converter: WFCO WF-9855-AD
Auto-Detect Power
Converter, 55A Output

Reality is that there is a "failure rate" for just about anything made by humans. A converter like anything else can fail and the good news is yours did so within the warranty period. Ownership time is really immaterial as failure can occur anytime.

Since yours is a "Deck Mount" (not incorporated into the power center) what is directly above it. Is it possible that something may have been spilled or leaked above it and it got wet? Also, is the space adequately ventilated. Heat and Water are the enemies of electrical devices.