Original Converter

[WickedFast]

I understand from reading on the Forum that replacing the original converter with a 3 stage converter would help my battery management, not overcharging, keeping it charged when I am not around, but who can install one and how much does it cost? Can the dealer do this work?

Totally stupid about batteries, but learning thanks to all of you.

[bambibooth]

Hey there WickedFast, fellow Austin area dude here. Changing out the converter is easy. I'm on the road in California and just did it myself.

It's basically a couple of screws and wires to match up.

I got some info from this blog: http://currentlywandering.com/2015/0...the-airstream/

You can read mine, but I didn't go into details on the install.
http://www.tincanplan.com/on-the-roa...to-the-lights/

And, yes, a dealer can certainly do this for you.

[NoResults]

Bottom line is this. Dealer wanted $500.00. I ordered from Best Converter cost $200.00.

Tools needed screw driver and tork screw driver. Time 2 Hours. If you can operate a screw driver you might as well save a trip to the dealer and $300.

Dave

[AtomicNo13]

I like to hear success stories like this!
Hearing people empower themselves through experience makes us a stronger more capable group!
Congratulations!

[beachbouy]

bambibooth by chance is it the Progressive Dynamics (PD9245CV)? I have cooked to batteries... never again!

[PharmGeek]

I am not very handy, but did it with randy, step by step, checked all the stuff with volt-meter as well...all checked out and 1 year in I am SOOO happy with that change...costed me like, 100 and some change and a bit of time for the install.

I think I mounted mine to the floor using some square 1 inch aluminum channel, some screws, but did not screw it to the floor, instead used 3M double sided tape and it has held up and has not moved an inch so far.

Good luck!

[beachbouy]

Originally Posted by NoResults

Bottom line is this. Dealer wanted $500.00. I ordered from Best Converter cost $200.00.

Tools needed screw driver and tork screw driver. Time 2 Hours. If you can operate a screw driver you might as well save a trip to the dealer and $300.

Dave

Originally Posted by PharmGeek

I am not very handy, but did it with randy, step by step, checked all the stuff with volt-meter as well...all checked out and 1 year in I am SOOO happy with that change...costed me like, 100 and some change and a bit of time for the install.

I think I mounted mine to the floor using some square 1 inch aluminum channel, some screws, but did not screw it to the floor, instead used 3M double sided tape and it has held up and has not moved an inch so far.

Good luck!

What converter did you purchase?

[PharmGeek]

Originally Posted by beachbouy

What converter did you purchase?

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f449...-126429-3.html

I think what I was "supposed" to get was the power max "boondocker" pmdb-60 model...but randy accidentally I think sent me the 55 model (as I recall, don't quote me) which is the same, it just had a variation in its housing and how you install/mount it....which I ended up liking...it is not encased in a box..I blow it out with some air off and on, and figure it cools better? (no idea to be honest, but it works great)....

Just talk with Randy at bestconverter.com and he can make sure you get the right thing and he can give you play by play directions on the install...see the thread for details as well, hope that helps.

[featherbedder]

Simple hook up of convertor as there are 2 wires 1 pos. 1 neg. to hook up, plus 1 ground to body of AS, easy to tell dif. as convertor terminals are marked minus and plus signs, if unsure pur. cheap meter or 12 volt tester will tell power are not. You also could google how to hook up convertor and save lots of cash by diy method.

[bambibooth]

Originally Posted by beachbouy

bambibooth by chance is it the Progressive Dynamics (PD9245CV)? I have cooked to batteries... never again!

My new one is the Progressive Dynamics PD4655. It is supposed to be the direct drop-in replacement for the Parallax 7355 I had in the Airstream. I needed it in a hurry, got it from Amazon. They have 1 day FREE shipping out here on the West Coast where I'm currently staying so it was a no-brainer.


B

[nvestysly]

I don't see any follow-up from the OP but hope they'll consider doing the replacement themselves. Instructions are included in the replacement kits. The instructions are straightforward. Yes, there are multiple steps to follow but it's basically disconnect the wire from the existing unit and attach it to the new unit. Do this wire by wire or in some systematic manner and everything will be fine.

It may seem intimidating at first but there are probably few upgrades that are much easier than this one. And once you finish it you'll have quite a sense of satisfaction.

[WickedFast]

Thanks everyone!!! I feel empowered now to do this myself.

[Rocinante]

One more thing you'll want for the project: A flashlight. Best is one of those headlight things you can strap to your head so it's shining into the dark hole where you'll be working on the converter. I did this project too...and if I can do it, pretty much anybody can do it. When I find the thread where I detailed the process, I'll post a link here.

[FCStreamer]

Yes please. It is incredibly helpful to see others do it first and see detailed pictures and explanations. Thanks!