Jer&Ger wrote:
I'm looking to replace my converter so I can have one with a battery charger in it. I know nothing about them except that I've found a Progressive 9100 series that I can get the Wizard for AGM batteries. Is that going to be my only choice or do any of you recommend something better? Thanks in advance, Jerry
The main difference between the Progressive 9100 & 9200 series converters is the 9200 has a "built in Wizard" & the 9100 lists the Wizard as an option.
I believe any modern convertor on the market today with a charging system, built in or add-on is ok for AGM batteries. The reason being is none of them have a true "equalization" charge function, which apparently, some AGM manufacturers indicate in their instructions to avoid "equalization"
I agree & disagree with smkettner:
"this just is not true. PD and IOTA will charge every bit as good as a portable battery charger and usually better"
The difference being the PD and IOTA deliver 3-4 stage charging. A regular battery charger does not, but a portable "SMART CHARGER" does everything needed to maintain a Lead Acid deep cycle. Battery equalization charging takes place above 14.4 up to 16.0 volts & the Wizard delivers only 14.4 in either Boost or Equalization mode.
Lead acid batteries require an occasional "equalization" charge in order to reach full capacity & life expectancy. The very best & easiest way to accomplish that is with a good "SMART CHARGER". It takes all the guess work out of properly maintaining an RV Deep Cycle battery.
I camp off-grid always & have an old Magnetek Converter (junk). I have a Champion generator & charge my 2-6 volt batteries with my Smart Charger, not through the converter which delivers at most 13.2 volts, or about 5-amps at best.
I'm an expert in only one field....I believe it's somewhere in Kansas.
2000 / 22' SKYLINE NOMAD LITE
1998 DODGE DAKOTA / 5.2L= 8mpg.
2006 POLARIS ATV
1500/1200 Watt Champion generator
Yada Wireless Back Up Camera
1998 Dyna Wide Glide
USMC 68-74