electrical distribution panel

[yycwrangler]

I'm seeing units such as these mentioned for use in the trailer. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002XRU6FM

They look like the cats meow in so much that they contain fuse setups for 110 and 12 volt. I'm assuming you run this to an outside plug and this unit would be plugged directly into the shore line. I'm also assuming that is converts 110 to 12 volt..Seems like a neat idea.

Is anyone using such a unit and if so what model or product are you using. This one was just my first exposure to the multi tasking units so other suggestions are greatly appreciated. Eventually I'd like to tie in solar with a mppt so I'm assuming this type of unit will work.

Anyhow any feedback for the newbie would be greatly appreciated

Cheers
Al

[m.colley]

I'm using one in my CTC conversion and love it. Yes it converts 120AC to 12V DC, acts as a 3 stage battery charger, and as 120v and 12V distribution panel.
I'm using the one in your link. The PD 4135 is the newer model.


Martin

[troubleScottie]

There are two types: one is just a distribution panel, one is a distribution panel with converter.

The distribution panel is basically the same as a home electrical panel. The power is brought in ( shore line connection ) to the panel/main circuit breaker and it distributed to separate circuits with their own circuit breakers. There are 50 amp, 30 amp setups which determine the number of separate circuit maximum that you can have. Most people feel 30 amp service is sufficient.

The distribution panel may have a DC distribution panel or it may be a separate panel. The DC panel uses fuses. The number of DC circuits varies per unit.

The distribution panel with converter is the distribution panel PLUS typically a multi-stage battery charger/converter and a DC fuse panel. The converted is connected to the battery. Technically one might be able to run without the battery, but I doubt it would be a good idea. The converter may or may not put out clean DC power. Everything one needs for AC and DC power and charging your battery would be in the same unit.

Remember to use GFCI outlets for ALL your AC outlets. A lot of the time you will be in electrically hazardous/wet environment.

[yycwrangler]

Thanks guys.

The unit I have posted. Can you tell me from the literature if that is a unit that also has the convertor. And troublescott, you mention a GFI on all outlets, could you not just put a CFI circuit breaker which would cover the entire outlets on that line. I've also heard of folks installing one CFCI units on each line and that one GFI will cover all outlets on that line.

Maybe I'm outta space on this

Cheers
Al

[troubleScottie]

To your comments on the GFCI -- yes both are true. You can use a GFCI breaker per line OR use a GFCI and connect the subsequent outlets to that. It works the same way and is as effective.

But if each line is separate, you are back to one for each outlet. Belt and suspenders safety at very little additional cost.

[yycwrangler]

good to know..Thanks again

Al

[MtnDon]

To be absolutely clear on the GFCI thing; the GFCI must be the first device in the string after the fuse/breaker, in order to protect the other outlets in the circuit. The input connection must be made to the correct set of terminals. They are clearly marked as to which terminals connect to "line" (in) and "load" (out). Line is power in from breaker and load is to the other outlets in the string.

[Shadow Catcher]

We have the PD 4045 and have had 0 problems. We have two 120AC circuits that are GFI protected, the one for the air-conditioner and the galley. I am using all of the 12V circuits

[Bill n Robi]

Progressive International is NOT Progressive Dynamic - see their web sit for info about them. You get no warranty from the manufacturer as they will not have a valid serial number. There are threads here about problems with the Progressive International units.

[McDave]

https://www.amazon.com/WFCO-8955-amp-Po ... +converter


McDave

[m.colley]

Thanks guys.

The unit I have posted. Can you tell me from the literature if that is a unit that also has the convertor. And troublescott, you mention a GFI on all outlets, could you not just put a CFI circuit breaker which would cover the entire outlets on that line. I've also heard of folks installing one CFCI units on each line and that one GFI will cover all outlets on that line.

Maybe I'm outta space on this

Cheers
Al

Yes the PD4045KV you linked to has the converter. There are different places selling the Progressive Dynamics converters and there are several counterfeits out there. I bought my PD4045 like you linked to from these guys http://www.bestconverter.com/PD4045-45- ... 8quca2riSo


Martin

[yycwrangler]

That's what's great about these forums. information...I had no idea there were Progressive dynamic and international and one doesn't come with a warranty. So it looks like I need to look for a PD unit not a PI. Thanks for clearing that up and also feedback on GFI.

Cheers
Al