Forum Discussion

-Lqdskier's avatar
-Lqdskier
Explorer
May 05, 2017

Upgrade old Magnatek converter or replace?

Hi, I have a 94 Tioga Montara and am contemplating upgrading the Magnatek converter/charger and was wondering if I should get a upgrade kit from Best Converters or just buy a whole new unit like a Progressive Dynamics.
Thanks, Mike

25 Replies

  • -Lqdskier wrote:
    That sounds like a great option, Bobbo. Do I need any additional components or is the kit complete? I pretty sure mine is the 6300 series.


    You need to "jumper" the 6300's fuse panel to use it with a newer converter, or you can buy a new fuse panel that works with the 7300 or others.

    Beware of the upgrade kits 7300R and Ultra which get you a 7300 or a WFCO (unsat) You can get an upgrade using PowerMax or PD for less money and have a way better converter.

    I disagree with Bobbo and the 7300. Works great as a shore power converter and ours has lasted years and years (2002 built rig) I use different chargers for fast charging with generator power off grid though. Single 13.8v from the 7300 is not enough for that job.
  • Bobbo wrote:
    I replaced the MagnaJunk 7345 in my old Winnebago with a PD4655V from Best Converters years ago. I sold my Winnebago last month and bought an Airstream. The Airstream comes with a Parallax (aka MagnaJunk) 8355 converter. It will be delivered next week, and I have a brand spanking new PD4655V from Best Converters sitting in the garage even as we type. The 8355 will never even be plugged in at this house.

    YMMV


    Umm- you do know that the 8300 series has the option of temperature corrected 4 stage charging- something the PD doesn't offer?

    The 6300 and 7300 series are not good, but the 8300 series is different.
  • I don't know enough about Magnatek converters to say they are junk but I do like how the PD series work better than my Magnatek Model 7445. I also though that the PD Wizard was unnecessary until I installed one in my 1990 Bounder. Now I to plan on replacing the Magnatek as soon as I finish the new planter in the front yard and replace our entry doors. At that point our remodel will, for me at least, be complete and hopefully free up some of our expendable income.

    I did not go through BestConverters for the upgrade for the Bounder but I will for the replacement for the Magnatek. The Magnatek cooling fan is very noisy in comparison to the PD, I can hear it without having my hearing aids in.

    I just posted my reply after your replied to Bobbo and Chris replied to you, I cannot remember the name of the guy at Best Converters but I do know Chris from posts here on RV.NET and respect his judgment. I'd call BC and ask which is "best, easiest and fits your budget and needs". Ask about the 8300 series at that time.
  • That sounds like a great option, Bobbo. Do I need any additional components or is the kit complete? I pretty sure mine is the 6300 series.
  • Bobbo's avatar
    Bobbo
    Explorer III
    I replaced the MagnaJunk 7345 in my old Winnebago with a PD4655V from Best Converters years ago. I sold my Winnebago last month and bought an Airstream. The Airstream comes with a Parallax (aka MagnaJunk) 8355 converter. It will be delivered next week, and I have a brand spanking new PD4655V from Best Converters sitting in the garage even as we type. The 8355 will never even be plugged in at this house.

    YMMV