WFCO converter conversion to 8735-AD

[Jackstraw2679]

I read all that you're talking about and decided against WFCO. I went with the PowerMax PM4 55A. No auto detect, it's got a good old fashioned dip switch, and a rheostat to adjust the cutout voltage.

[Dale B]

I read all that you're talking about and decided against WFCO. I went with the PowerMax PM4 55A. No auto detect, it's got a good old fashioned dip switch, and a rheostat to adjust the cutout voltage.

That sounds like a better choice, I'm curious how the cut out voltage works? Are you using lithium?

My WFCO reverted back to default AGM LA settings. I had to go thru a total discharge charge cycle process again, they have two procedure you can follow. The first one which I followed this time is very cumbersome & time consuming. WFCO thinks this is a game changer Ha! Much easier, faster & simpler to change a dip switch setting & have the converter in a permanent mode.

[Butcher]

I purchased a Powermax 100A and I am happy about that too.

I do understand why manufacturers make stuff that does things automatically. It prevents people from screwing things up. Sadly, when these 'automatic' versions of products first come out, it rarely works like it did at the factory. I do believe some day, it will, but right now, it appears that it does not.

[Jackstraw2679]

That sounds like a better choice, I'm curious how the cut out voltage works? Are you using lithium?

I am using lithium. There is an adjustment that allows you to set the voltage where you want it to stop charging, You have to use your multi meter to set the cutout at the proper voltage.

[rcjokibbe]

WFCO does have a new line with a switch, I personally would recommend against anyone buying the AD version.

I have been using the stock WF-8735P with two 100ah lithium SOK batteries for over a year. I had to use the generator this past weekend to recharge the batteries due to no sun for days. Unfortunately, only 6 amps were going to the battery while running the generator, yuck. I'm now looking at my converter options. The Progressive's "direct replacement" PD4135KW2BV is a different size than the 8735 and I'm unsure what that means for the installation. I have read about Progressive's converter PD9130LV, but I'm unsure how to wire it with the existing 8735. I don't like what I'm reading about the WFCO 8700 AD series and how it detects lithium. The WFCO WF-8735-PB-LIS would be preferred, but I can't find it for sale. Bah!

I just watched a video on someone replacing their 8735 with a PD4045 and how they drilled new holes. I'll have to look if new holes for the PD4135 will work for me.

[Scott'n'Wendy]

I purchased a Powermax 100A and I am happy about that too.

I do understand why manufacturers make stuff that does things automatically. It prevents people from screwing things up. Sadly, when these 'automatic' versions of products first come out, it rarely works like it did at the factory. I do believe some day, it will, but right now, it appears that it does not.

I'm looking over the powermax converter/charger. It says "With our 3 Stage Smart Charging & adjustable power supply modes". Seeing as you have one, what exactly does it mean by adjustable power supply modes? Can you select FLA or LiFe? Can you adjust max charge and float voltage? What I was reading wasn't abundantly clear.

[Butcher]

Here is my take and take is loosely.

Yes, it does have a three stage charge cycle. From my understanding, mostly for lead acid/AGM batteries. It has been adjusted to the numbers stated in the manual at the factory. If you move the switch to the other position, it will just pump out a certain voltage. What is that voltage? Anywhere you have set it at, from 13-16.5V.

I played with this and I believe mine is now set at 14v at the fixed position, but I certainly may have adjusted it to 13.8v. Too lazy to check. I'm still trying to find what works for me. I am also going to install another 302ah battery. I will probably settle on a 3.40v full cell reading when I am done but I am not done yet. When you adjust the voltage, it does not stray.

Here is something that I think it's clear about, but maybe I am wrong. There is one switch that will turn it to a multiple stage charge or a fixed output voltage. The other 'switch' [which is more of a rheostat vs switch], adjusts the voltage [13V-16.5V]. It will adjust the multiple stage voltage AND the fixed stage voltage. So, if you play with this and expect it to go back to factory standards, it does not. You will also need to adjust it back to the factory standard voltage if 14.6V.

So, not only can you adjust the constant voltage but ALSO the multi-stage voltage. I can only say, on the fixed voltage adjustment, it is pretty darn constant. It seems like load does not matter, it will pump out the voltage you set it at. Up to the current it can produce. I have seen this converter charge two very low 304ah batteries up to full in less than 6 hours.

I did up size the circuit breaker to 20A because the 15A would trip if the converter is full tilt for 30-45 mins. After the 20A breaker install, it does not trip anymore. The control panel was already rated to 20A so it just took a breaker to make me happy. I never checked the actual current, I loaded my parts cannon and so far, it seemed to work. I would probably not follow my lead on that, without some research.

The cooling fan does come on after a few minutes of charging. With large capacity lithium batteries, each of mine are capable of sucking 250A per hour for a fast charge and 150A for a standard charge. So, the converter rarely sits at idle. It can, once the batteries are fully charged. If they are ever ever taking a charge, the converter is putting out max [+95A] and the fan comes on. I'm guessing after 10-15 minutes of that much load. It's not loud, but mine is in the basement, not in the control panel.

There is not a FLA/Lithium switch.

[Scott'n'Wendy]

@Butcher Thanks for the explanation

[AZMike]

Just as an FYI, my convertor was replaced under warranty, and they installed a WFCO 8950L2-MBA (lithium only). It charges in bulk mode from one to four hours (as needed) before entering absorption mode. I am glad I do not have an auto detect version. I do not need a switchable convertor as I went totally lithium.

[COGrandDes]

Dragonfly recommended the Powermax 120A converter/charger for my 550aH battery pack and I love it. Moved the charger to the front compartment for more efficient charging.