Progressive Dynamics Mighty Mini and Casita Travel Trailer

Question:

I have a 1993 Casita trailer. It has a Carson Power Pack converter for the 120v 2 circuits and 12v 3 circuits and a separate Schumaker I think 120 to 12v power converter for charging the battery sealed marine LA-basically a trickle charger. I have no idea why the Carson PP isnt used to charge the battery, but this may be a modification made sometime over the 30 year history of the trailer. I was looking at replacing the trickle charger because it only hits about 13.1 or 13.2 when plugged into shore power and it was suggested that I replace everything with the PD4045KA. Questions: Would this be a good compatible replacement for both converters? Do I need to separately get 120 breakers? If so can you tell me what to order? Id like to add a 3rd 120v circuit because I just installed a new water heater with electric option and Im currently just using it on the AC circuit. Does that sound practical? If I want to add solar charging at some point and use a LI battery, will the PD4045KA work for that? Photos: Front of Carson PP, Battery charger-front end, back end

asked by: David O

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Progressive Dynamics Mighty Mini AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger, # PD4045KA, is a great product. I am familiar with the Casita trailers and yes this would be a good choice for your application. This would be a complete replacement for current equipment being a 2-in-1 AC/DC distribution panel and converter charger that will work with lithium and lead acid batteries. This uses a custom charging profile for lithium and multistage charging for lead acid, just ensure the setting is appropriately made, works with lithium-ion, flooded lead acid, AGM, and gel batteries. You will have 7 AC circuits available (comes with circuit breakers) so if you want to put the heater on its own circuit, availability is there.

If you add solar at a later point this will be easily compatible, no need to change this component. Check out the Go Power Portable Solar Panel with Digital Solar Controller - 200 Watt, # 34282610. This is a quick easy way to enter in to solar charging and again with the Casita is a great fit. This portable solar charging system lets you place the solar panel where you need it for maximum sunlight while parking the camper in the shade. The foldable 200-watt panel provides DC power to charge your RV's batteries.

Please check out the attached videos for installation and product reviews and I also included a couple articles on solar for you. Let me know if you have any additional questions. Happy Camping!

expert reply by: Michael R