North Georgian needs help with Converter

[falcon-N-Air]

Hello,

We have recently bought our first Airstream and after reading the many threads on the original Univolt system I am kinda worried about going out on our maiden voyage without updating to a modern Converter. I am considering the PD 9245C, but I have absolutely no electrical experience. My question is, do any of the forums Georgia members know of a reliable source for having the converter installed. I can hardly wait for our first outing, any help would be greatly appreciated!

Kindest Regards!
Eric

[idroba]

Don't put off your first trip because of an old converter. They will not explode, melt down, or do much to annoy you but hummmmmmmmmm....

The PD9245 is a good replacement, when you get around to doing it. Sorry I can't help out on the installation due to a 3000 mile gap, but maybe someone local who knows electrical things will volunteer to do it.

Point is, go use your Airstream. The old Univolt is going to be fine for a while.

[falcon-N-Air]

Thanks so much for the reply! What I am concerned about is if the univolt is working properly? I am afraid of going out on our maiden voyage, (we will be on shore power) and the univolt failing to charge our battery. Thanks for any input!

Eric

[AL’ UM- MONEY]

I agree with idroba. If your 12volt system is currently working go on your trip. The downside is most do humm. I changed mine out in my 1976 with no problem. The best I remember the instructions were easy to follow. Once you get things going watch for gathering of Georgia folks and various meetings and you will get lots of information that will assist you in work you would like to do on your AS. Let me know if I can help.

[falcon-N-Air]

Thanks Gene, I am new at all of this, but what is the best way to know if the 12 volt system is working properly. I know everything appears to be working properly right now,but also have a new battery in. Thanks!

Eric

[idroba]

Turn on some lights which operate on 12 volts (the overhead ones will do fine). Have someone unplug the trailer from the 120 volt shore power. The lights should dim slightly. Plug it back in, the lights should brighten slightly. If it passes that test, the univolt is working and will be fine until you replace it.

If you are alone, just do the same test but turn off the main 30 amp circuit breaker inside the trailer while watching the lights. That is the same as unplugging it. Look to see you are turning off the 30 amp one, not some other.

[falcon-N-Air]

Thanks idroba, so I can perform this test at home as well, just plugged into any 110 outlet? If so will try this tomorrow,as we are planning our maiden voyage in May. Many Thanks!

Eric

[AL’ UM- MONEY]

The converter steps down the 110 volt shore power to 12 volts+~- and at the same time keeps the battery charged. Since most things are 12 volts you should be able to use the test as discribed and know that things are operating as advertised. Spend several days shaking systems out before you leave so you won't find out on the road. My first main trip was to Disney so I went camping one day close to home to discover any issues.

[falcon-N-Air]

We want to camp at Disney very soon Gene,how did ya'll like it there?

All the best!
Eric

[Aviator]

falcon-N-Air,

You may want to contact BestConverter.com They are here on the forum and very helpful. I bought the replacement for my Univolt from them as well. They were very patient with me in answering my questions, then explaining the answers which I didn't understand

[falcon-N-Air]

Thanks Craig, I really appreciate the info!

All the best!
Eric

[AL’ UM- MONEY]

I too bought my converter from Best converter, If you tell them AS they are very knowledgeable and will recommend the best one. If you get one and feel uncomfortable with replacing it try to find someone with electrical knowledge. Anyone should be able to change out in less then an hour. For sure plan a trip to Fort Wilderness, very few camp grounds can provide the experiences then Disney camping.

[AL’ UM- MONEY]

I too bought my converter from Best Converter. If you decide to use them tell them it's for an AS and they will recommend the best one. When you get it look and see if you feel comfortable in changing it but if not you should be able to find someone with electrical knowledge or even someone that works on RV's to do this fairly inexpensive. By all means plan a trip tp Fort Wilderness. Very few places can provide the experience of camping that Disney does. What I do is each Christmas that is what I give my family (10) tickets and a week at Fort Wilderness. Best and easiest present ever.Also when you get back plan a trip to Fort Mountain State Park at Chatsworth. The road up to there is fairly steep so make sure your tow vehicle is up to it. It's a good camp ground with lots of hiking trails. Also watch the forum about the rally in Hawassee in Oct. Lots of AS come together with an open house that will give you many ideas.

[scooterbug76]

Eric,

We ordered ours from Best Converter too. Randy recommended the PowerMax Boondocker...PowerMax PM4B-45 (45 Amp 4-Stage Converter/Charger)

It works well in our '69 Overlander.

Tammy

[68 TWind]

Eric,

I got my converter from Best Converter too. It has been several years ago and at the time Randy recommended an Iota. I have had no problems with it and it works great. I think I may have told you this on the phone. Anyway good luck.

[falcon-N-Air]

Thanks everyone for all the great info, it really means a lot. @ Gene, we may have crossed paths @ Hawassee, we were there in the fall of 2012, if you seen a guy smoking a Pipe in awe of all of the Aluminum....it was probably me. I remember seeing your spirit of 76 Airstream. We hope to make it this year with our Tradewind in tow. @ Bruce, do you think the Pd9245c that we discussed would serve us sufficiently? All the best!

Eric