Based on current experience, it appears that regardless of battery charge state, the converter always starts at bulk mode (14.4v) IF the converter is plugged into shore with a battery connected. It then always, runs in this mode for 4 hours regardless of battery level. I don't think this is good in the long term for a battery especially if it has been already fully charged during the days travel. I am likely going to start disconnecting the battery prior to "shore powering" as then the converter always starts and appears to stay in "absorption" mode which i think might be easier on the battery.
