Install new converter

[Echogram]

I hope this is where I ask questions . . . Hi there, I'm a new guy and I'm stuck . . . Have 1972 Argosy, and I want to upgrade the Converter that contains fuses for trailer brakes, running lights and interior lights. I want to install new intelligent converter. How do I integrate the new converter to the fuse box of the old converter?? Is it possible to wire from battery to the new converter then to the old converter to incorporate the existing fuse box?? ...Echogram

[DKB_SATX]

This is exactly the right place for this sort of question.

You can find a number of detailed walk-throughs with photographs of the work from people who've replaced the original Univolts with modern converters. It seems the best thing to do it to buy a fuse block when you buy the converter, and wire the 12V system to that fuse block, then supply the fuse block with the lines coming from the new converter.

That's what was done with my trailer before I bought it, and it works fine... the fuses are readily accessible now in a wall-mounted panel near the converter.

I don't think those fuses have anything to do with the trailer brakes or running lights, though... those systems should be independent of the Univolt (though the battery does directly energize the breakaway switch.)

[Wabbiteer]

Originally on my project to speed things up after the converter died I sliced the fusebox and mounting cage off the old univolt converter using a high-speed cutoff tool. Then found out I had to replace 72.5% of the trailer to be able to enjoy using it... currently about halfway done

There are relatively inexpensive combination generic fusebox-converter panels available similar to what's found on new trailers and pop-up campers and such, but the quality really suffers some. The best DC fuse and circuit breaker options would be whats available for marine use, for boats.

[TG Twinkie]

You do not want to fuse the line going to the trailer brakes with any thing other than the fuse(s) that are in the battery lead circuit. Usually 50 amp, sometimes 30 amp.
All other circuits in the trailer should be fused according to the wire size.
The external lighting on the trailer is not wired to the converter. It is powered by the TV.

[Gene]

Originally Posted by TG Twinkie

The external lighting on the trailer is not wired to the converter. It is powered by the TV.

That means the tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, license plate light and courtesy lights. Not the patio and step lights.

Gene

[pgr32e]

Here was my solution, that way I kept the ammeter function even though it isn't the best, it still sort of works, and the circuit fuses are new blade types......Phil

[vswingfield]

Originally Posted by pgr32e

Here was my solution, that way I kept the ammeter function even though it isn't the best, it still sort of works, and the circuit fuses are new blade types......Phil

I like it. You even have a handle so you can carry your fuse panel around with you.

Seriously though, nice job.

[rogerdodger]

Hi, echogram. I too am upgrading my 12 volt system. I ordered a new PD9260 and fuse panel from Randy at Best converter. My plan is to locate the new converter in the bathroom where the old one was, because that is where the wires come from the trailer. Also, the converter needs 110 volts AC, and there is an existing plug there. I am going to use a new fuse box, and am still deciding where inn the bath closet to put it. Good luck on you upgrade. Ask lots of questions here on the forum, great people with lots of help.

[M2HB]

You don't want fuses on trailer brakes. If anything, a circuit breaker could be used, but I've never seen, or needed one on trailer brakes.

[Echogram]

Thanks everyone for the resopnes to my delima as to the installation of a new converter. (Just in from our antique show/sale and I'm tellin you... we are really getting lots of inquires and comments about this Argosy... I even show some of the customers through the camper!!) I did discover I need a fuse box. So for the time being and untill I can make a more permanent installation, I plan to wire the new converter to the battery and leave the old converter wired to the battery too. I will disconnect the AC line to the old comverter and plug the new converter into the AC outlet... Echogram,Stan

[Echogram]

Just discovered the process to have pictures in the photo gallery... I've posted three photo of the outside of the Argosy... Just to think this was given to me to use as storage... I'm blessed!! ... Echogram