Replacement Converter for WFCO Model 8955 on 2017 Thor Chateau Sprinter 24HL Motorhome

Question:

I have Thor Chateau Sprinter 24HL 2017 last 4 serial number 8508 My question is I want to upgrade my converter. Should I get PD4560K or PD4590K? I have a 3.5 lp generator. I want something that will charge my batteries quickly. Factory installed converter takes forever to charge. Plus it blows fuses. I have 2 Trojan 6 volt T 105 batteries. The brand is WFCO Model WF-8955PEC Panel Input 120Vac 60Hz 30A Converter Input 105-130Vac 60Hz Converter Output 13.6DC, 55A Rating includes charging and load 2nd question since my unit is not a plug and play how difficult to replace ?

asked by: John S

Expert Reply:

The easiest solution to upgrade your WFCO model WF-8955PEC converter is to use the Replacement Converter for Parallax/Magnetek or WFCO RV Power Centers - 55 Amp, part # PD4655V.

This is a direct replacement for the converter/lower unit, so you would not need to replace your entire box and since it's designed to replace your WFCO converter, it shares the same dimensions and will fit in the exact same place as the old one. Installation is pretty straight forward, you'll need to unscrew and disconnect the old converter. As far as wiring, you'll need to disconnect and reconnect 3 AC wires and 2 DC wires to hook up the new unit.

The # PD4655V features the same smart charger that's integrated into the # PD4590K18LS8 and # PD4560K18LS8 which switches modes as the battery charges and helps extend battery life, so it will perform better than your WFCO converter. You can use the boost mode to charge your 6 Volt batteries at the full rated load for a quicker recharge time, but keep in mind that it has the same 55 amp output.

If you want to go with a higher amp unit, I recommend the Progressive Dynamics Inteli-Power RV Converter and Smart Battery Charger - 12V - 70 Amps # PD9270. The 10 amp upgrade will make a big difference in reducing the amount of time it takes to charge your batteries, but it will have different dimensions, so you likely won't be able to mount it in the same place as the original. I would not recommend going with anything higher than that just because it can potentially diminish your battery life.