The existing charger 12v converter that is part of the Scamp DC fuse panel and AC breaker system has failed. This is in a 2005 Scamp16 layout #6.
I see some past discussion about using a WFCO Model WF-8735P Ultra III Power Converter as a replacement.
On the Scamp Parts page they list a Progressive 45 Amp Converter Charger which is very large and will require mounting behind the existing panel.
What have others done as a replacement and what would you recommend, to replace the failed charger? It would be nice long term to have a charger capable of Lithium battery charging profiles.
Steve L.
Your best advice can be found at BestConverter - Converters, Inverters, Electrical Supplies, Electronics talk to Randy. Let him know what you currently have. I have had good luck with PD converters. In this day and time make sure what you buy will handle lithium batteries. When buying from Best Converters you have someone to talk to if you have any issues.
Eddie
Eddie gives very good advice above. Randy at bestconverter is a great resource. I'd definitely go PD, and Lithium capable.
One note, some of the older Scamps don't have sufficient gauge cable to the battery to handle 45-55 amp converter/chargers. Easy enough to pull new wire if necessary, but it is something you need to make sure it is a match for the charger output.
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I just ordered a PD4135 for my 19 foot Scamp. Randy recommended I use 8 gauge wire from the converter to the battery. It seems to me that it would be a whole lot of trouble, tearing up who knows what along the way, to try to route the new wire on the same route as the old. Is there any reason I can't run the new wire alongside, or even inside, the frame from the converter to the battery?
I ordered the replacement from: www bestconverters dot com
They recommended the PD4135. It is a four stage charger but is also lithium compatible.
They promptly answered my email inquiries even on Sunday.
Unit should be here later this week, I will update forum on progress after installation.
The new charger breaker/fuse panel arrived from from:
www bestconverters dot com
They recommended the PD4135, which uses Smart Charging Wizard and has selectable (via a switch) Lithium or Standard charging profiles.
The replacement is nearly the same size as the old WF-8735, so it easily is mounted in the same opening. The AC breakers from the old unit can be reused in the new unit, so I did not order new breakers.
Turn off all the power! Label the old wires, pull out the old unit, reconnect wiring, swap in breakers, mount new unit, fire up and test. If it passes the smoke test you must have done something right.
So far the new unit looks and works well. We have a trip planned in a few days and will be able to report how it operates after that.
Old Charger/ Panel
New Charger/Panel