single stage replacement w/ multi stage converter

[Jerry in VT]

We have a 2014 25-ft Flying Cloud. This coming summer we plan to do some extensive traveling out West, etc. Our preparations include new, AGM batteries, and possibly replacing our single stage converter with a multi stage converter. Our single stage is a Parallax 7300 Series, Model 7355, 55-amp, for 30 amp service. We've read that the single stage units can "fry" batteries, or just fail generally. What is the prevailing wisdom? (1) Are single stage converters a risk factor? (2) What make and model multi stage converter would you folks suggest? (3) Who is a reliable source from which to purchase the multi stage converter? Any info you can provide is greatly appreciated! Safe travels - Jerry in VT

[Llittle54]

Originally Posted by Jerry in VT

We have a 2014 25-ft Flying Cloud. This coming summer we plan to do some extensive traveling out West, etc. Our preparations include new, AGM batteries, and possibly replacing our single stage converter with a multi stage converter. Our single stage is a Parallax 7300 Series, Model 7355, 55-amp, for 30 amp service. We've read that the single stage units can "fry" batteries, or just fail generally. What is the prevailing wisdom? (1) Are single stage converters a risk factor? (2) What make and model multi stage converter would you folks suggest? (3) Who is a reliable source from which to purchase the multi stage converter? Any info you can provide is greatly appreciated! Safe travels - Jerry in VT

Easy DIY upgrade. All your questions can be answered at http://www.bestconverter.com. Did the upgrade last year on my 22.
Good luck!

[dmbecke]

I just put in the PD 4655 in the same exact 25 ft trailer
Took about an hour and cost $197
I'm very happy with it
I keep my trailer in a poke barn about an hour away and I can plug it in and not worry about it
I'm s been very cold in he Midwest and when I check the batteries they both are at 13.3
I would make the conversion

[55AS]

Another thumbs up for PD series converters and www.bestconverter.com

[Steamy1]

I would also suggest you price the Progressive unit on Amazon. I did not have a good experience returning a defective unit to Randy at Best, even though the factory said it was defective and to return it. I ended up having to pay the $50.00 shipping costs to return a defective unit. At least with Amazon, returns are easy and there is no dispute regarding shipping charges.

[wulfraat]

X2 on the PD4655. Drop in replacement.

[AWCHIEF]

Plenty of very detailed videos on YouTube to guide you.

[streaminwild]

Randy at Best converter? I've heard nothing but good about him. Was the unit past warranty? At Amazon your allowed 10% returns before your blocked. I found Randy over 100.00 cheaper on 200w Zamp suitcase solar panels than Amazon.

[tjdonahoe]

Originally Posted by Jerry in VT

We have a 2014 25-ft Flying Cloud. This coming summer we plan to do some extensive traveling out West, etc. Our preparations include new, AGM batteries, and possibly replacing our single stage converter with a multi stage converter. Our single stage is a Parallax 7300 Series, Model 7355, 55-amp, for 30 amp service. We've read that the single stage units can "fry" batteries, or just fail generally. What is the prevailing wisdom? (1) Are single stage converters a risk factor? (2) What make and model multi stage converter would you folks suggest? (3) Who is a reliable source from which to purchase the multi stage converter? Any info you can provide is greatly appreciated! Safe travels - Jerry in VT

. I have never had any problems with mine...I add a little water once a year....and mine is a 2013....same as the 04 ...no problem..just check the battery water once in a while....you can spend money on everything....

[Steamy1]

Originally Posted by streaminwild

Randy at Best converter? I've heard nothing but good about him. Was the unit past warranty? At Amazon your allowed 10% returns before your blocked. I found Randy over 100.00 cheaper on 200w Zamp suitcase solar panels than Amazon.

Long story, but the summary is that they were less than helpful in first identifying that I had a defective unit then in the return process. I installed the unit as soon as I received it and the fan ran continuously from the moment I connected it. After talking with Randy, who said it was operating properly, I ended up calling the factory directly and they said it was a defective unit and to return it for a new one. It was not out of warranty. This all occurred within about 30 days after the initial purchase.

I ended up having to pay the shipping charge to return a defective unit to Best, then they delayed in issuing a refund for the unit until I sent them an email. I have never been reimbursed for the shipping nor was there any offer to do so.

I purchased the replacement through Amazon. It was actually cheaper and included a return label if I needed it. The new unit works perfectly.