Recommended Lithium Compatible Replacement For A WFCO WF-8735P Power Center

Question:

Hi, I have a 2022 Geo Pro with Overlander E 190 W solar panel on the roof. It’s shady in a lot of campsites around us and we are considering a portable solar kit to plug into the Go Power system in order to place portable panel in the sun. The std power converter is WFCO model WF-8735p that is not capable of charging lithium batteries. We would like to upgrade in order to boondock for a weekend. What would you suggest?

asked by: Sue B

Expert Reply:

The correct replacement for a WFCO WF-8735P is the Progressive Dynamics RV Power Control Center with AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger - 35 Amp # PD4135K. This panel has a switch that can swap the charging profiles to accommodate lead acid or lithium batteries. It requires a cutout hole 10-1/4" L x 7" T.

If you have a bit of extra room or can trim the cutout hole a bit larger to 10-3/4" L x 7-1/4" T then I recommend going up to the # PD4045KA so you can get more AC branch circuits and DC fuse ports. The converter in this power center is 10 amps higher than what you currently have so you'll want to ensure that you have the correct gauge wire, as listed in the instructions.

Solar power is not going to run through the power center and will instead run from the panels to a solar controller and then directly to the battery. The best way to determine the correct solar kit for your boondocking trip is to figure out how much each item you plan on running uses and then multiplying that by the number of days you'll be using them. We have a solar calculator, which I've linked below, to help aid you in this process and give you an good recommendation for solar panels based on the amount of energy you'll need.

expert reply by: Kevin C