Suspected Converter Problem

MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
"So your suggestion is to not only replace the converter, but replace the cables now? Why stop there? Maybe I should just get a new camper"

Are you trying to resolve a problem or generate an argument? The WFCO can NEVER charge AGM batteries correctly. NO FACTORY CAMPER on earth came with cables large enough to support ADEQUATE CHARGING of a pair of AGM batteries while charging with a generator.

With more than 50 years of battery diagnosis charger design and toubleshooting experience I was trying to cut to the chase on this. The important thing is the batteries. Until the problem is resolved my strong advice is to recharge them correctly and completely and not use them until they can be properly taken care of.

When I answer an issue on the forum it is directed as a minor function to the OP and as a major part to lurkers and the curious. When I hold cruising sailboat schools (all day) everyone who attends goes to work learning.

If you care about those AGMs, then react to my advice. If not, ignore it. But please do not act surprised if this drags on and on and they are not recoverable. My side lies always with the batteries.

Capiche?

I understand your concern about the batteries. I guess I failed to mention something that seems to be a concern for you about the batteries.

The batteries are not currently sitting in the camper going through the same trouble.

When I did the basic troubleshooting last weekend, I recognized that this was a problem and did not want to jeopardize the batteries. I pulled them out of the camper and brought them home. They have been sitting on a 110V AGM-specific battery charger ever since. It did take a very long time to charge them to 100%. I have since let them rest for a day or two and checked the voltage. Both read a healthy 12.92 volts. They have been on the charger in maintenance mode ever since and will not be installed back in the camper until the issue is adequately resolved.

I think that if there was any permanent damage done, it was minimal. I certainly don't want to do it again, which is why I'm trying to resolve the issue.

Your response did generate a couple questions.

You say the WFCO can never charge AGM batteries correctly - is the implication that there are some chargers that can? If so, what are they? I'm not picking a fight I genuinely want to know and what is different about them.

You also say that no camper came with cables big enough to adequately charge AGM batteries correctly. Why is the cable size important? Isn't an amp an amp? What about AGM batteries necessitates larger cables?

What size cables do you recommend? I have some Ancor marine-grade 4AWG at home - would that be sufficient. My Mk 1 calibrated eyeball suggests I currently have 6 AWG. I would think that would be good for 60A (it is for the NEC, anyways).

Apologies are in order for my snippy response. I by no means am disputing that WFCO isn't the world's greatest converter or on the same level as a PD. My only point is that all the evidence is indicating that the WFCO is TRYING to do it's job and appears to be generating the required voltage. That voltage just isn't making it to the batts. Whether or not I replace the WFCO, the voltage issue needs to be address.