Charger / Converter Failure / Recommendations

[Big_Blue]

The charger / converter on my 2008 Winnebago Destination failed over this past trip. It is a Progressive Dynamics Intell-Power Model PD9260C

Troubleshooting consisted of checking the outputs with both shore power and generator power. 0.00 VDC out. Trip was cut short. The Converter Status dongle shows all is well. None of the three parallel fuses are blown. So there is some internal failure between the system monitor circuits and the device output.

No idea about the warranty. I'm guessing that this is not the first converter/charger failure. The manual set shows another model, while web research revealed this model.

The only user accessible parts are the fuses. The case is bolted and riveted shut. Online research does not reveal a schematic diagram. (I am itching at opening it up, but won't if I can trade it in for repair/refurbishing)

Lessons Learned. Bring a voltmeter for troubleshooting. Bring a spare battery charger.

The drive home did charge up the coach batteries, so I am comfortable with their status.

That all being randomly said, What are your recommendations for a reliable converter/charger?

Tnx, Bob

[wa8yxm]

One possible recommendation would be Dinner at Win Schuler's Restaurant in Marshall, MI..... NOT far from Progressive Dynamics.

[Big_Blue]

Well, this evening, I ordered a direct replacement from Progressive Dynamics. It'll probably be a manufacturer refurbished unit. This gives me the freedom to drill the rivets on the failed unit for further direct troubleshooting.

Stay tuned.

[camper19709]

Power Max Boondocker convertor.

[RayChez]

It sounds to me like the AC board has failed in the inverter/charger.

[D_E_Bishop]

Sorry my schematic is in the MoHo in storage. If I take the DGS home I'll stop and pick it up later today. The FAQ part and what is shown in the manual in the link is a good start.

[KJINTF]

Have you checked PD web site for trouble shooting FAQ's?

All things electronic fail over time

Suggest you drill out the rivets and take a look see inside
I have repaired maybe 40 or more "defective" PD converters over the years
If you have a ESR meter and feel comfortable with soldering check the caps they are typically the case of the failure.

If you decide to replace and scrap the unit I would be happy to pay for shipping - always looking for more spare parts

[D_E_Bishop]

Big_Blue,

I have an older schematic from PD and in general it is much like yours. When I get through feeding my DGS breakfast/lunch I look it up for you and attach it to a post. The warranty is long over and of no value. I agree, drill rivets out and replace with sheet metal or machine screws. I also assume you have your meter out now so it should be simple to troubleshoot.

Dave

[Big_Blue]

Yes, 120 VAC input confirmed from both shore power and the coach generator. Checked at the AC plug While at the campsite, also tried with running an extension cord to bypass the coach AC supply. Still no joy.

[RoyB]

I have been using my PD9260C Converter/charger unit since around 2009 and have really put it through its paces...

Has worked flawlessly for me...

Since the PD9260C comes with the standard 120VAC plug I would plug it into a known good 120VAC receptacle source before saying it has failed.

Pretty easy to test as you have thus indicated. Just plug into a good 120VAC source and measure a nominal 13.6VDC on the DC output lugs.

I carry a B&D VEC1093DBD 40AMP portable smart mode battery charger (AMAZON) for all our off-road trips..


My 2KW Honda EU2000i runs this portable battery charger just fine when off the power grid...

Roy Ken

[Mandalay_Parr]

Yes, check the 120 volt input first.

[tropical36]

Big_Blue wrote:
The charger / converter on my 2008 Winnebago Destination failed over this past trip. It is a Progressive Dynamics Intell-Power Model PD9260C

Troubleshooting consisted of checking the outputs with both shore power and generator power. 0.00 VDC out. Trip was cut short. The Converter Status dongle shows all is well. None of the three parallel fuses are blown. So there is some internal failure between the system monitor circuits and the device output.

No idea about the warranty. I'm guessing that this is not the first converter/charger failure. The manual set shows another model, while web research revealed this model.

The only user accessible parts are the fuses. The case is bolted and riveted shut. Online research does not reveal a schematic diagram. (I am itching at opening it up, but won't if I can trade it in for repair/refurbishing)

Lessons Learned. Bring a voltmeter for troubleshooting. Bring a spare battery charger.

The drive home did charge up the coach batteries, so I am comfortable with their status.

That all being randomly said, What are your recommendations for a reliable converter/charger?

Tnx, Bob

What we replaced our OEM junk with... http://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Dynamics-PD9260CV-Converter-Charge/dp/B000GASX9O/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1405880414&sr=8-9&keywords=power+converter+chargers
and are very happy with it so far.
Now do you in fact have 120vac feeding the unit? Once you're sure of that, I wouldn't hesitate to drill out the rivets and see what's going on inside. I like metal screws for attaching my equipment a lot better anyway.