Hello -
I'm wondering if anyone has thoughts on the WFCO Power Center?
We bought a
1965 Caravel about a year ago with a confusing electric system (to me). It appeared as though several questionable modifications had taken place over the years? While most things seemed to work (12v lights/fan, AC outlets, outside lights) - a fuse in the old switch box continued to blow when starting my tow vehicle, the original switch box itself didn't seem to make sense (not sure if it was also modified?), I was never sure if the onboard battery was getting charged or not, and the AC circuit breaker had several unterminated wires hanging out. Anyway, I brought it to the local Airstream dealer and they installed a new brake controller and tested that the trailer brakes and exterior lights work. I started to try to decipher the rest of the electrical myself, but figured that it was better to just take the existing stuff out (switch box, AC circuit breaker box,
12v converter) and start over from scratch.
I've tested continuity of all the wiring to seven
12v lights, a
12v fan, a water pump, and two 120 AC outlets (one that powers a little fridge). All the wiring seems good including the exterior running lights and brakes powered by the auto.
After a little research I'm thinking of buying the WFCO Power Center (p/n WFCO WF-8725P),
Power CentersWFCO WF-8725P, WF-8725 25 Amp Power Center
It seems as if this "all-in-one" unit will replace all the components I've taken out? I'm trying to:
1. Convert 120W shore power to 12W.
2. Charge the onboard battery (Interstate deep cycle Marine/RV) when plugged into shore power without overcharging the battery.
3. Charge the battery from tow vehicle while diving.
4. Divert onboard battery power to 12W lights and fan when boondocking.
5. Ground the electric system (What is the best way to do this?)
6. Potentially add solar capability in the future
Does anyone have thoughts and/or experience with this system as related to accomplishing the above? Would you recommend another system?
Thanks in advance,
Gary