2017 Classic Converter/Charger

[SilverSinbad]

Has Airstream changer the converter/charger from the old single stage model? The mechanic at the local dealer said it was now a multi stage charger.
Anyone know if he was correct?
Thanks,
SS

[paiceman]

Huh, did he give you a model number and brand?

Bud

[SilverSinbad]

Huh, did he give you a model number and brand?

Bud
Today 01:08 PM

No he did not say, just that it was now multistages.

[paiceman]

I've done some checking on this one. Parralex says it's three stage but apparently it's their definition. I am going to change ours out to a Boondocker 4 stage probably next week or the week after as our Classic is plugged in unless it's being towed.

Bud

[mojoe7009]

Originally Posted by paiceman

I've done some checking on this one. Parralex says it's three stage but apparently it's their definition. I am going to change ours out to a Boondocker 4 stage probably next week or the week after as our Classic is plugged in unless it's being towed.

Bud

My batteries were upgraded to AGM's when I took delivery of or '17 Classic. Purchased a PD 9270 including the pendant for $187 from BestConverter.com. Randy was extremely helpful. Removed the stock Parallax and made a little deck for the new one and it wired right up...perfect. Been in the coach for 5 weeks, haven't heard the cooling fan once and she's maintaining a perfect 13.2 float. Very happy so far.

[mojoe7009]

I think I promised you that picture some time ago!

[paiceman]

mojoe7009. Now I am really confused. I made the decision to switch out converters as our trailer is now plugged in almost all the time. I too have AGM batteries, solar etc.

I contacted Randy over the weekend and he recommended the PD4655, then he sent me another email a day later saying that he now realized I had 50AMP and he stated most people are switching out to the Boondocker 1260HW.

I emailed and have called yesterday but have not heard back. I will do a lot of work on Airstreams, but so far have avoided electrical stuff so I have two former AS techs, combined about 70 years experience who will put it in, but now not sure what to order. So, I will wait on Randy and then decide to move forward or not.

Thanks for the post

Bud

[mojoe7009]

Originally Posted by paiceman

mojoe7009. Now I am really confused. I made the decision to switch out converters as our trailer is now plugged in almost all the time. I too have AGM batteries, solar etc.

I contacted Randy over the weekend and he recommended the PD4655, then he sent me another email a day later saying that he now realized I had 50AMP and he stated most people are switching out to the Boondocker 1260HW.

I emailed and have called yesterday but have not heard back. I will do a lot of work on Airstreams, but so far have avoided electrical stuff so I have two former AS techs, combined about 70 years experience who will put it in, but now not sure what to order. So, I will wait on Randy and then decide to move forward or not.

Thanks for the post

Bud

I talked with him before I ordered but the Boondocker didn't come up. I believe he thinks this is the old and simple way to do it for novices. What I know is, it seems to be working well and was virtually a plug and play deal. No need to change out any circuit boards. I don't really know the difference between mine and the Boondocker.

[paiceman]

I'll see what Randy says.

[mojoe7009]

Originally Posted by paiceman

I'll see what Randy says.

Please let me know when you hear back.

[paiceman]

Will do.

[RonaldC303]

For converters there are two amp specs. The first is the trailer 110v service rating. Most smallers trailers come with 30A service while some larger ones with dual a/c units have 50A service.

The second spec is how much 12v current can be produced for example 50A, 55A or 60A etc.

I believe the Progressive Dynamics 46xx series is for trailers with 30A service. The PD92xx and the Boondocker 1260xx are for 50A trailer service.

Ron

[paiceman]

Heard back, Boondocks. So I'll order it tomorrow. Where there adequate instructions with your new converter?

[mojoe7009]

Sorry. In the Bahamas. Been off the grid for a couple of days. Yes. Instructions were adequate. Mine was easy...just plugged into the outlet. No need to hardwire which I believe the Boondocker requires. So a bit different. Did not require a new electronic board.

[paiceman]

Thanks, I think I opt for easy, yours.

[mojoe7009]

Originally Posted by paiceman

Thanks, I think I opt for easy, yours.

[emoji1360]

[RonaldC303]

Originally Posted by mojoe7009

Sorry. In the Bahamas. Been off the grid for a couple of days. Yes. Instructions were adequate. Mine was easy...just plugged into the outlet. No need to hardwire which I believe the Boondocker requires. So a bit different. Did not require a new electronic board.

Hi MoJoe. Sorry, but I am still a bit confused. The PD 9260 is corded. Are you saying the is an outlet in the power area where all you do is plug it in to get 110v power to it?

Ron

[mojoe7009]

Originally Posted by RonaldC303

Hi MoJoe. Sorry, but I am still a bit confused. The PD 9260 is corded. Are you saying the is an outlet in the power area where all you do is plug it in to get 110v power to it?



Ron

Yes. There is a 110 outlet just behind where you mount the converter. Makes it easy. No hardwiring necessary. Just be sure to reinstall the ground wire tightly as well as the DC wires to the proper lugs on the 9260.

[tkowalyk]

Following as I'm going to upgrade my converter in my 2013 Classic - I have 50 amp service and factory solar. Sent a note to Randy already.

[paiceman]

Well I finally ended up ordering and received the Boondocker 1360 HW. I think I am going to put a plug on the end of the wire from the Boondocker and use the plug in the area that the current converter is plugged into and thereby use that set up as the power and ground. I've emailed Randy on this, but I can't see why it would not be ok. Maybe someone who knows more can let me know why this would not work.