Forum Discussion

Bluebeard's avatar
Bluebeard
Explorer
Sep 28, 2015

Progressive Dynamics 9160A

In a previous discussion, I asked about shore power and someone suggested I get a charge minder for my 9160A. Well, I plugged it in and it didn't work. So I have been talking to the tech people there and it looks like my 9160A is DOA. So I need to get something (else) in there. Any recommendations? Shall I replace with another or are there other (better) options.

My situation: 24.5' artic fox 5th wheel, used mainly for boondocking- maybe 3 or 4 times a year maybe a week at a time. Very rarely will we actually be hooked up to shore power, other than when the trailer is at home. I have 2 6v AGM's in my battery bay, and I'd like to ensure I don't have to buy another pair of them soon as they were very big bucks.
  • Bluebeard's avatar
    Bluebeard
    Explorer
    Sep 28, 2015
    The wizard's light never came on. So the tech's had me measuring the voltage from the plug and it was very low .05v. Then they had me measure the voltage at the converter with the + batt lead unplugged and it was reading 29v. The tech told me the converter isn't any good and to replace it.
  • Bluebeard's avatar
    Bluebeard
    Explorer
    Sep 28, 2015
    Right now after I have it plugged in for a while, the batteries don't appear to be topped off as the front lift is slow as is the slide out. On my longer boondocking adventures I will most likely bring a small genny.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Sep 28, 2015
    Replace with same. Unless you have just 1000w generator then get a 9140.
  • Bluebeard's avatar
    Bluebeard
    Explorer
    Sep 28, 2015
    Actually I may be using a 1000w honda or a 1800 watt coleman. Would it make a difference? Looks like locally, they are only selling the 9260. I am taking off in two days, so I am kinda cramped for time on this to have anything shipped without incurring big expense.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Sep 28, 2015
    9260 is fine but you may need the pendent (different from Wizard) to reduce voltage and charging rate with a 1000w generator. At full output the 9260 will probably overload the 1000. No problem with 1800.

    I recommend Randy at bestconverter.com

    If you have a 10+ amp portable battery charger it may get you through this trip.
    20 to 40 amp would of course be preferred.
  • D_E_Bishop's avatar
    D_E_Bishop
    Explorer
    Sep 28, 2015
    There is a guy that is mentioned ofter on here that has great deals on the converters. I don't recall his name but with a few different searches about replacement converter his name will come up. He seems to be among the most knowledgeable regarding converters.

    I would stay with PD. My OEM lasted over twenty years and I still have the original distribution panel.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Sep 28, 2015
    Bluebeard wrote:
    I called them and they suggested the 60 amp boondocker.....
    Trouble with Boondocker is that it does not hold absorption voltage. As soon as Boondocker hits 14.6 it drops to normal mode 13.6 volts. Normally happens between 70% and 80% charged :(

    PD should hold 14.4 for 4 hours and if you need longer you hit the button.

    I don't always like Randy's advice but I have bought from him several times and the service is good and price is fair.

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