Troubleshooting RV Electrical Issues: Converter Charger Not Functioning Properly
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Purchase and Negotiation
- Initial Problems with the Slide
- Testing the Electrical System
- Discovering the Converter Charger Issue
- Dealing with Leaks and Plumbing Problems
- Addressing Crooked Switches and Vent Placement
- Considering the Battery Upgrade
- Exploring Options for Charging the Lithium Battery
- Conclusion
🚐 Introduction
In this edition of Ride and Rescue, we have an exciting rescue project on our hands—a one-year-old travel trailer that has seen better days. Join us as we delve into the challenges faced by the owner and their efforts to bring this trailer back to its former glory. From negotiating the purchase to dealing with electrical issues and plumbing problems, this article will provide a detailed account of their journey. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!
🚐 The Purchase and Negotiation
The owner's excitement for this travel trailer was overshadowed by the dealership's push for expensive warranties and add-ons. Wanting to avoid unnecessary costs, they decided to purchase the trailer "as is," taking a risk on its condition. While this decision saved them money upfront, it also meant they had to tackle any problems that arose on their own. With just two months left on the manufacturer's warranty, the owner was confident that they couldn't go wrong.
🚐 Initial Problems with the Slide
Upon bringing the trailer home, the owner encountered their first challenge—the crooked slide. While this issue could be covered under the original warranty, they also discovered a unique feature of the slide-out mechanism. By cycling it all the way in and out, the sensors reset and the slide began working perfectly. With this problem resolved, the owner proceeded to test other components, such as the lights and solar system.
🚐 Testing the Electrical System
Plugging in the shore power, the owner was relieved to find that everything powered on without any issues. This travel trailer boasted a solar system with a 165-watt solar panel and a 55-amp MPP T controller. However, they soon realized that the battery, which hadn't even reached a year of use, was missing. Suspecting that the dealer intended to keep the expensive battery, the owner decided to install a temporary lead-acid battery for testing purposes.
🚐 Discovering the Converter Charger Issue
Unfortunately, a careless mistake led to a major setback. During the battery installation, the owner accidentally left exposed wires, which resulted in a short circuit. Suddenly, nothing worked when the battery was connected, and a burning smell filled the air. After disconnecting the battery and plugging the trailer back into shore power, they discovered that the 12-volt system had stopped working. Determined to fix the issue, they set out to find the converter charger responsible for powering the lights and accessories.
🚐 Dealing with Leaks and Plumbing Problems
In their quest to locate the converter charger, the owner removed side panels and delved into the labyrinth of piping and cables. Along the way, they noticed antifreeze leaking and pipes that had collapsed due to a previous owner's plumbing mishap. These additional issues added to the complexity of the project but did not deter them from their ultimate goal of restoring the trailer.
🚐 Addressing Crooked Switches and Vent Placement
While inspecting the interior, the owner noticed that various switches, including those for lights and the air conditioner, were crooked. Determined to make everything perfect, they realigned the switches and vents, using a grinder to correct any misalignments. This attention to detail ensured that even the small aspects of the trailer were as visually pleasing as possible.
🚐 Considering the Battery Upgrade
With the electrical system functioning properly again, the owner faced a decision regarding the battery. They contemplated upgrading to a lithium battery, which would require changes to the converter charger. However, after further research, they discovered that the current converter charger did not support lithium batteries and would need to be replaced entirely. This sparked a dilemma—should they invest in a new converter charger or opt for an alternative charging method for the proposed 200 amp hour lithium battery?
🚐 Exploring Options for Charging the Lithium Battery
Having weighed the pros and cons, the owner decided to stick with their current converter charger while finding a different way to charge the lithium battery when away from shore power. They considered using a separate battery charger designed specifically for large lithium batteries and connecting it to a generator. This solution allowed for charging the battery efficiently without the need for a new converter charger.
🚐 Conclusion
The journey of rescuing this one-year-old travel trailer has been filled with challenges, from negotiating the purchase to addressing electrical issues, plumbing problems, and more. Despite setbacks along the way, the owner's determination to restore the trailer has prevailed. With careful attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to try new solutions, they have managed to overcome each obstacle. This rescue project serves as a testament to the owner's resourcefulness and their passion for turning a troubled trailer into a true gem.
Resources:
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different battery charger for the lithium battery?
A: Yes, you can utilize a separate battery charger designed specifically for large lithium batteries when using a generator.
Q: How did the owner fix the issue with the collapsed pipes?
A: The owner utilized a blow dryer and heat gun to heat and massage the collapsed pipes, opening them up to restore proper water flow.
Q: Will the new converter charger support the 200 amp hour lithium battery?
A: No, the current converter charger does not support lithium batteries, so the owner opted for an alternative charging method using a separate battery charger.
Q: What other challenges did the owner face during this rescue project?
A: The owner encountered a crooked slide, electrical system issues, plumbing problems, and misaligned switches and vents.
Q: Was the purchase of the trailer ultimately worth it?
A: Despite the challenges faced, the owner considers the purchase worth it as they were able to save on costs and successfully overcome the issues encountered.
