Troubleshooting Progressive Dynamics Converter and Charge Wizard Short

Updated 10/08/2020 | Published 10/04/2020

Question:

If the charging wizard receives damage due to an electrical short while plugged into the converter, will it disable the converter’s function? The fuses on the converter were not affected.

asked by: Ross M

Helpful Expert Reply:

So I'll start by saying that the fuses on your # PD9180A (lead acid) or # PD9180ALV (lithium) converter would not be affected in this case since they're designed to protect against reverse polarity; they won't blow if there is a short on the system. Additionally, there isn't a reset on these converters so if it's not functioning you'll want to test to make sure it's not also been shorted out.

If the converter is not functioning you would need to also replace the converter with one of the converters mentioned above, depending on your battery type, as well as adding a new Charge Wizard # PD92201.

In order to troubleshoot the converter, follow these steps:

STEP # 1 Converter Output Voltage Test
1- Using a 5/32 Allen wrench, loosen the screw and disconnect the Negative Battery wire from the RV converter Negative Output Terminal

2- Connect 120 VAC Shore Power to the RV.

3- Connect a Digital Voltmeter to the proper Positive and Negative terminals on the front of the converter.
The voltage should read 13.6-volts (14.6 for Lithium models) +/- .3-volts DC. If the voltage is in this range, the converter is good.

4- If good and the batteries are not charging. Check the fuse or breaker in the battery positive lead.
If the converter output voltage is zero volts, check the Reverse Battery Protection Fuse(s) to see if they are blown. Note: The only thing that will blow these fuses is if the battery leads were connected in reverse even for just a second. If the fuses were blown, replace them and re-test the converter output voltage.
If the fuses check good, go on to Step # 2

STEP # 2 Converter Input Voltage Test
A. Check the 120 V.A.C. circuit breaker that supplies AC power to the converter. If it is tripped reset it. If it trips immediately after reset, the converter is bad and must be replaced. If the circuit breaker is not tripped go to "B".

B. Using a AC voltmeter check the AC Outlet that the converter is plugged into to see if 120 VAC is available. If 120 VAC power is present at the outlet and the converter still has zero volts output, the converter is bad and must be replaced. If no AC power is present at the outlet, you have a wiring problem in the RV.

I've also linked a short informational video on this converter for you to have a look at.