Can A Progressive Dynamics PD4135K Replace A Magnetek 6325A

Question

Question:

I currently have a series 6300A model 6325 converter in my 1997 bigfoot 2500 camper. I have an onan 2500 LP generator that isn’t charging my house batteries and the tech says it’s because my converter is bad. He recommends a 2,000 watt converter for replacement. Research I have done says this is the replacement unit. I don’t think it’s 2000 watts. Will this converter allow my generator to power my batteries and plugs? Thank you

asked by: Leslie B

0

Expert Reply:

Converter output is typically talked about in amperage and not wattage. Your 6325 would indicate that you have a 6300 model panel with a 25 amp converter. You can replace just the converter if you don't want to replace the whole panel or you can replace the entire panel with the Progressive Dynamics RV Power Control Center with AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger - 35 amp # PD4135K you were looking at.

My recommendation is to replace the entire panel as this one comes with a better performing converter and will allow you to power your DC distribution panel while connected to shore power even if you aren't wired to a battery. This unit also comes with a battery profile switch that will let you switch the between lead acid or lithium batteries, if you ever plan on upgrading.

This panel requires a cutout hole 10-1/4" W x 7" T and with the front cover measures 11-1/4" W x 8" T. If this leaves a gap you can just get a decorative panel of wood or plastic that's large enough to cover the opening and cut a hole for the new unit in the panel for it to mount to and mount the panel over the opening. Same concept as a dash plate with a car stereo.

You'll also need to verify the gauge of wire used running from the converter to the battery and ensure that it meets the standards listed in the instruction manual to prevent an electrical fire since you'll have a higher rated amperage running to the battery.

If you have any questions please feel free to shoot them my way and I'd be happy to help.

expert reply by: Kevin C

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Must B.

8/5/2024

For the Magnetek 6325 is it a must that one have a battery connected to get 12v at the accessory connection? Is it possible to hook up a power converter (120vac to 12vdc) in place of a battery? Tomorrow, I am going to take a battery from the boat to see if it makes a difference but I thought I would get this question posted in the meantime. Sincerely, Joe

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Kevin C.

8/6/2024

@MustB Yes, the 6325 would still work when connected to shore power even if you didn't have a battery connected. The converter will still drop the 120v power down to 12v for the DC distribution panel.

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Joe

8/6/2024

Mine is not supplying 12v to the accessory lugs and does not seem to be charging the battery. There is 12v to the other lugs for the lights and such. I took a photo but I don't see the ability to share images. 1: I hooked the radio to one of the light fuses and the lights got brighter and the fan kicked on so I do not know if I should do this. 2: Should there be 12v at the wires for the battery connection? Indicating it is working. I was told in the chat that a battery has to be connected to get 12v at Accessory. 3: Could one hook up an external battery charger to the battery while still connected to the converter? 4: Could one connect a 12v power supply to the battery cables in place of a battery? 5: Would a small battery work such as might be used in an ATV? I know it won't have capacity but I currently only use shore power and do not need battery power alone. 6: Is there a wiring/schematic diagram that would give me test points to trace back to a problem if there is one? 7: I get so put off by the black being positive and white being negative. It kinda of pisses me off that they do this in rv's. What good reason could there be for creating this deliberate confusion? Thanks for your prompt reply Sincerely, Joe

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Kevin C.

8/6/2024

@Joe If you're connected to shore power without the battery attached and the DC appliances aren't working then then converter built into your panel is bad. If your have the battery connected and it's not charging while connected to shore power then that would also be a sign that the converter is bad and needs to be replaced. There unfortunately isn't a replacement converter available for your 6325 so the only thing I can recommend is an entirely new panel. 1. I would not mix up any wiring unless you know exactly what it is. 12v will hurt, 120v could kill you. 2. The accessory has to get power from somewhere. Either the battery will power it or the converter will when on shore power. If either one of these isn't connected to the accessory or is dead you won't see voltage come across. If you were testing the voltage at the cables coming from the battery and getting no voltage then the battery is likely dead. 3. Yes, the converter reads the charge level of the battery and adjusts the charge that it sends so you could use a separate charger as well. Most people add in solar as an alternative. 4. What other 12v supply would you be connecting to the system besides a 12v battery? 5. The smaller the battery the less amperage you'll have to power accessories in your trailer. I wouldn't even bother with a smaller battery if you're always connected to shore power. 6. Wiring diagrams are unlikely to be found for your RV but you could reach out to Parallax for a wiring diagram of your Magnetek 6325. 7. You can't really trust any wire color at all in a trailer. Manufacturers use whatever they have on hand and reuse the same color for multiple things so everything unfortunately has to either be traced or tested to determine its function. I completely understand your frustration though.

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Joe

8/6/2024

@KevinC 2: The battery is good. Everything works with a battery connected but it is not being charged. It appears something in the battery circuit must be bad. I see a circuit board, a relay, a thermistor (I think) and a transistor or two. 3: Ok, I'm thinking of just keeping an external charger on the battery if I can't find the faulty component. You think this will not be a problem even while hooked to shore power? 4: Well, wondering. Could I hook up a 12v power supply such as I use for testing 12v products or for that matter I wonder why a battery charger couldn't replace the battery? 5: What I think you are saying here is that the converter should supply 12v to all 12v connections including the accessory (which is apparently, on a different circuit than the lights, water pump and furnace) which I only get with a battery hooked up. As for a smaller battery. What I am thinking is. With a working converter the converter would supply the amperage required and a small battery would just be there as a sort of universal power supply. But that idea was for when I was told I had to have a battery to make the system work. 6: Schematic - I will check out Parallax. You think use their forum? Been looking online. 7: So glad to hear it's not me being stupid. I am looking at the PD4135K but a replacement is not in the budget right now. If I had the money I would get one right away though the wiring thing would probably piss me off. I believe it can be repaired at the component level if I can figure out the circuits. Whatever is responsible for charging the battery is probably at fault. I'm thinking relay for now.

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Can A Progressive Dynamics PD4135K Replace A Magnetek 6325A

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