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Old 07-21-2009, 06:05 AM   #1
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Converter, charger, controller, control panel recomendation



Ok-I can't have it all in one unit. I'm starting to get that.

I need to start piecing my electrical system back together.

First step is to buy an new converter/charger so I can get "on the road again."

After that, I will add the solar panel/controller. And then some type of monitor/power station.

Somewhere along the way, I will add a couple of 12 volt outlets in the front and back to run assorted stand alone stuff (GPS, CB/weather radio, bluetooth, etc). And will probably replace the alternator with a larger one and replace the separator with a newer one.

I don't think I want a wired in inverter.

I would appreciate a recommendation on a solid, reliable converter/charger. I'd like it to be as "smart" as possible and be able to handle a reconditioning charge and maintenance charge on a Lifeline AGM battery so I will not need to have a separate, stand alone, battery charger. Or a negative recommendation on what to stay away from.

As always, thanks in advance.

Tom

PS-Why is the board so quiet lately? Too hot?

PPS-what's with the "alien" smileys? They are a little creepy....

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1995 SMB E250
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Old 07-21-2009, 08:34 AM   #2
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Re: Converter, charger, controller, control panel recomendation

I settled on the Xantrex TrueCharge 2. It's supposed to be a top of the line unit, capable of all you listed out. No complaints so far
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Old 07-21-2009, 06:09 PM   #3
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Re: Converter, charger, controller, control panel recomendation

Thanks. I thought I heard complaints about the Xantrex but that may have been an older model.

The product description says:

"TrueCharge2 Battery Chargers can be mounted virtually anywhere, given their unique drip-proof design."

They drip? Huh? Or stuff can drip on them?

tom
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Old 07-21-2009, 06:44 PM   #4
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Re: Converter, charger, controller, control panel recomendation

It's to do with marine applications - if I recall correctly, water dripping down won't get into the charger's internals. Confused me at first, too!
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Old 07-21-2009, 07:33 PM   #5
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Re: Converter, charger, controller, control panel recomendation

Thanks. Monroe? I've always wanted to live it that part of the world. Average high temp here in Austin for the last month was 102. Average.....

I think I've got seasonal affective disorder from the heat. How's the job market?

Tom
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Old 07-22-2009, 11:02 AM   #6
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Re: Converter, charger, controller, control panel recomendation

We've been having a beautiful summer - seems like high 70s to low 80s and sunshine every day for the past couple of months! Winters are pretty long and grey, though... I couldn't handle your 100 degree heat, but I'd love to borrow your winters!!

No idea about the job market here, I'm afraid. I think Monroe is mostly a commuter town for the larger cities on Lake Washington's East side, and for Everett farther North. Microsoft and Boeing are probably the largest employers in the area.

We're nice and close to plenty of beautiful country, though - a short drive into the Cascades and Mount Baker National Forest; a bit longer to the Olympic Peninsula, the ferries to Vancouver Island, and access to BC.
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