Differences Between Old and New RV Distribution Panel Models
Dave SolbergEvery RV unit has a distribution panel, which is what routes electrical power throughout the unit and includes most of the unit’s circuit breakers and fuses. The RV distribution panel can supply both 120-volt power and 12-volt battery power. Older RV distribution panel models have the distribution center and converter all in one single unit.
When you pull off the top of an older RV distribution panel you will see there is a 120-volt main circuit breaker and each additional breaker for the different appliances inside the RV. You will also see the power cord coming out of the back of the RV distribution panel. The fuses in older models protect 12-volt battery powered systems which power lights, roof vents, water pump and several of the appliance on the LP mode of operation inside the coach of the RV.
The biggest issue with older RV distribution panel models is that the converter is noisier, which can be very distracting when running. The old-style converters also put out of lot of heat, which can create a challenge keeping the coach cool in the heat of the summer. Depending up on the model, it may be possible to upgrade the converter, helping the efficiency of the distribution center.
If you give your RV distribution panel an electrical upgrade you will be able to install a more modern converter that will offer cleaner, quieter power and more efficient battery charging capabilities.
An upgrade is available for just the battery charger portion which can be replaced in the exact spot as the older model. Check availability as some models will need to also upgrade the fuse panel to a newer version.
The newer distribution panels have a separate battery charger that can be installed in an out of the way place, however this type of system is smaller than older models and will require some modifications to the existing cut out placement.
You should have used one of the WFCO power distribution panels as an example of an ‘older’ style panel and spoke on how to determine if your panel supports different battery chemistries and why you might want to upgrade your converter/charger to one that does. Also a mention of battery charging profiles would be appropriate.
I have a 1996 Damon Intruder and my power converter went bad and I have no idea which one to get to replace it. Any help or advice would be a great help.
Hello Spenser,
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Thanks!
11 year RV’er.. first time owner of a 2000 Windsong Forest River.. 32000 miles.
I have the old distribution panel with the magnetic converter in my ’98 Komfort, looks just like the model you’re using here. I want to do the upgrade to the electronic converter, but how do I find out whether I can upgrade just the converter, or need to upgrade the entire distribution center? Thanks!
If the converter is just a panel that looks like a computer board that is attached into a slot, the whole distribution center may have to be replaced as these have specific ones that have to fit into that slot and may not be available anymore. The models where the converter is separate and looks like a standalone box, these can just be replaced on their own without the whole panel. The best way to find out with the other models is to look up the model number of the power center and see if a newer converter is available. WFCO does offer replacements for older models but only on certain ones. There are many different converters and distribution centers out there so the best thing to do is to look up your model and see if they do make upgrades.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Ok, I didn’t see a model number, where would I look? It looks very similar to the distribution panel in the video. There’s no internet service where the trailer is, so looking for as much info on how to determine the model number as I can get, before I got back up there. Thanks.
Hi James,
I have gotten the answer from the expert, here is the reply:
It is usually on the lid when it opens. There are stickers that usually says what it is rated for and should mention the model. They can be on the back of it as well so you might have to take it out but most of the time it is on the lid. There may even be a bar code label and on the bottom if there are letters that could be the model number as well.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Good afternoon,
would like to purchase that unit, the electronic upgrade on the electrical panel converter, how do I go about that, do you guys have a link that I can purchase 30 amp unit?
Dear Felecia,
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Sincerely,
Taylar
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I own an 1999 Komfort Travel Trailer what part number do I use for this part I would like to convert mine over with the new style and do you know the cost and am I able to do this myself.
Hi Darren. Thank you for visiting the RV Repair Club site and the opportunity to assist with your replacement distribution center. There are a few different upgrades you can do such as the the replacement of the converter only which we did on a ‘92 Suncruiser, or a complete replacement of the distribution center. With that, you can also replace the distribution center with an all-in-one unit that has the converter with the distribution center, or you can get a converter that is separate and installed in a different location. You would need to contact Progressive Dynamics directly to find the correct model for your ‘99 Komfort Travel to verify compatibility as we had to replace the 12-volt fuse panel in our ‘92 swap as well. They can be reached at: http://www.progressivedyn.com/
What is the average cost of a new distribution panel and can it be done DIY?
Thanks for watching the video “Differences Between Old and New RV Distribution Panel Models” and the opportunity to provide more information on the cost. The model we swapped out was just the converter (battery charger) with a digital version Parallax Series 7300. We got this model from Winnebago’s Customer Service Store and it was $300 suggested retail. I just got off the phone with Parallax and this model has been discontinued and replaced with the model 8300 which can be purchased with just the converter or the entire distribution center in 45, 55, 65, and 75 amp models. I found the 7300 model on the internet in a variety of locations ranging from $100-$800. If you do swap out the old Magnatek with a 7300 model converter, you will need to also change the 12-volt fuse panel. The newer models come with all the components and are more of a multi-stage charge vs the all on like the older system, and have a temperature sensor option. I did a google search on the 8300 and found models from $250 all the way up to $851. As far as a DIY project, it depends on your level of electrical expertise? I would suggest contacting Parallax direct either at http://www.parallaxpower.com or call 800-443-4859 and ask for tech support, they are very helpful!
Hope this helps!
great … how about a part number mfg firm etc.
Thanks for watching the video “Differences Between Old and New RV Distribution Panel Models”. We replaced the original converter only which was a Magnatek model in the ‘92 Suncruiser with a new Parallax Power Supply Series 7300. In the premium version of the replacement we noted that with this new converter an upgraded fuse panel was also required.
Hope this helps, happy camping!