Begging for some help here with power converter

sunshine sam · 09-08-2005, 08:04 PM

I have a 70/71 streamline trailer and it didn't come with a power converter or paperwork so I'm lost as to what kind of converter to buy and my local RC center is also clueless.
ANY info will help and thanks if advance for your time

sam

Skin · 09-08-2005, 08:24 PM

I am also a greenhorn to this community. However not to repairing things. There is a wealth of information posted on the subject to include: direct product evaluations posted on vintage Airstream.com FAQ area. But more importantly there are very many people here that are willing to take the initiative to assist you rather than step on you for a buck. In Lite of the last several weeks worth of events in the land that I love. You came to the right place. you don't have all the answers just know where to look for help with solutions. You got the first part right. If I could help with anything more, give me a holler. Peace

**Pick** · 09-08-2005, 08:53 PM

12 volt converters are generic devices, like tires. You just have to size one to your needs. 45 amps is a good starting point. Options like intelligent battery charging systems are wise options to purchase, as they can save you money in the long run, by extending the life of your battery(s).

sunshine sam · 09-08-2005, 10:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pick

12 volt converters are generic devices, like tires. You just have to size one to your needs. 45 amps is a good starting point. Options like intelligent battery charging systems are wise options to purchase, as they can save you money in the long run, by extending the life of your battery(s).

Thanks Pick .....the RV center here said that I was supposed to have a seperate 12 volt panel with breakers........they confused me more than they helped me and I thank you for taking the time to help out a rookie

sam

nickcrowhurst · 09-09-2005, 12:49 AM

Sam, one of the most popular choices seems to be the Intellipower 60 amp with "charge wizard". This link gives some information:
http://www.airforums.com/forum...+charge+wizard
If you go to the search button, and type "intellipower charge wizard", you will receive more information than you need! Nick.

sunshine sam · 09-09-2005, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nickcrowhurst

Sam, one of the most popular choices seems to be the Intellipower 60 amp with "charge wizard". This link gives some information:
http://www.airforums.com/forum...+charge+wizard
If you go to the search button, and type "intellipower charge wizard", you will receive more information than you need! Nick.

Thanks for the help and link Nick,I'm sure glad I found this site

sam

Bradjun1 · 09-29-2005, 12:15 AM

Sam
I just installed ther Intellipower in my unit and it works so good you don't even think it's on. I got mine from Randy at Bestconverts.com. He also helped with some install questions .For sure get the charge wizard

**Stefrobrts** · 09-29-2005, 12:26 AM

Sam, on my original converter the fusebox was built in. Perhaps yours was the same. When I installed my intellipower I had to get a fuse panel from the auto parts store and build my own 12v panel.

Do a search and you'll find a few threads about people doing this.

FrankR · 09-29-2005, 09:19 AM

Converters are electrical devices used to either charge a battery or allow equipment to operate in substitute for a battery. The output of a converter is determined by the number and size of the battery bank or the amount of current required to operate any 12volt rv devices. The basic converter can operate a rv water pump, furnace, interior lites, 12volt music system and other items. The average output of a converter is about 50 amps. There are several sizes smaller and larger, but this size converter will work satisfactorily.
Converters are made in several power output and physical sizes. The location for a converter should allow for air circulation as the units get warm and sometimes hot. The 50 amp units usually do not have a cooling fan, but a fan can be added with some required electrical experience. My favorite choise for a converter is whatever is cheap, used, and easily available. The larger the output, the more weight to carry and the more heat created. Considerations electrically should be made to monitor battery bank volts and condition, a battery bank selector switch and a 120vac switchto control the converter. Converters make heat and a constant hummm. I personally like to be able to monitor both the AC and DC electrical systems. A converter can charge a battery bank to destruction. Early converters were often called battery destroyers. Not all converters are made with the same control over the voltage/amps output.
The more money spent, the less human inter action required. Converters can be a great device for keeping batteries fully charged ready to use. A very easy method of keeping batteries charged is using a day time clock. The clock should be set for about one hour charge every 12 hours.
The time clock can be adjusted for any batttery bank needs. Frank