'21 22RBSWE Charger/Converter

[Canzvt]

Hi.

I have an RV show coming up this weekend and want to investigate LiFEPO4 batteries. My RV came with Lead Acid batteries. I'm trying to find out info about the Charger/Converter on-board. Dealer has been ZERO help. Is it suitable for the lithium batteries, or do I need to change it? If I need to change it, where do I look for one and what should I purchase.
Thanks.

[chuckster57]

You need to locate the converter in your unit and with a brand and model number it will be easy to determine if it’s LiPo4 compatible. A “regular” converter will charge LiPo batteries, but with limitations:
https://glider-battery.eu/post4-1/

Lots of manufacturers offer LiPo4 compatible converters.

[markcee]

Obviously, you will need to locate and check, but if you find you have a WFCO brand convertor (likely), model numbers with an 'AD' (for auto detect) appended are capable of fully charging lithium iron phosphate batteries.

Example: WF-8955-AD

[GlasNav]

if your layout is the same as the 2024 model and your fuse and circuit breaker distribution panel in below the cabinet immediately inside the door, your converter is most likely floor mounted behind the distribution panel. In 2021 the WFCO brand was what they were installing.

[Canzvt]

Thanks for all the replies. I went to the storage unit today, and dug around and found the type and model number of the panel/converter. Its a WF-8955PEC. Not sure what that means, but it doesn't have 'AD' in it so, I'm assuming I need to change it out. It states that the converter output is 13.6VDC - 55A, so my thoughts are that it is not enough output voltage for a LiFEPO4. Any recommendations on where to go from here?

[chuckster57]

This one will do:

https://www.amazon.com/Saree-WF-8955...Y2hfYXRm&psc=1

[rlh1957]

Our converter was located behind the electrical ac/dc panel underneath the counter cabinet where we have pots & pans.
Took out pans and the lifted up the bottom of cabinet and the converter and wiring was under there.

You may or may-not have have received the converter sheets with your new camper manual.

[ObiRich]

Originally Posted by Canzvt

Thanks for all the replies. I went to the storage unit today, and dug around and found the type and model number of the panel/converter. Its a WF-8955PEC. Not sure what that means, but it doesn't have 'AD' in it so, I'm assuming I need to change it out. It states that the converter output is 13.6VDC - 55A, so my thoughts are that it is not enough output voltage for a LiFEPO4. Any recommendations on where to go from here?

The WFCO 9855AD should be the easiest. That what I'm doing.

[Kzneft]

Go to BattleBorn batteries, they have some good solutions. As far as a charger/controller look at Victron. They have the best systems. When I changed from acid to lithium I had to get a new controller

[Salty25]

Originally Posted by ObiRich

The WFCO 9855AD should be the easiest. That what I'm doing.

Do you have to change the fuse panel as well?

[GlasNav]

No, but you will have to apply a jumper on the front of the charger to activate it as a LiFePo charger so it outputs the correct voltage.

[chuckster57]

Originally Posted by Salty25

Do you have to change the fuse panel as well?

The converter is in the bottom half of the power distribution panel.

[Salty25]

Originally Posted by chuckster57

The converter is in the bottom half of the power distribution panel.

I thought to get to my converter I have to remove the stove because it is behind the fuse panel.

[chuckster57]

Originally Posted by Salty25

I thought to get to my converter I have to remove the stove because it is behind the fuse panel.

https://www.amazon.com/Saree-WF-8955...Y2hfYXRm&psc=1

wfco9855 is a "deck mount".

[GlasNav]

As chuckster57 stated, it is floor mounted. I swapped out ours when I upgraded to LiFePo batteries, and it is indeed floor mounted behind the distribution panel.

Since I recently upgraded our stove, I can tell you that there is a panel beneath the stove that doesn't appear to be removable! Access from that angle would be so convenient!

What I can add is that with our configuration, the furnace is also behind the distribution panel, making it a crowded and tight area to reach into and work. Everything is visible, just getting to it will be the challenge.

Kind of like trying to rebuild a small block chevy thru the tailpipe. Stole that joke from a family friend that's a gynecologist.

[Salty25]

Originally Posted by GlasNav

Kind of like trying to rebuild a small block chevy thru the tailpipe. Stole that joke from a family friend that's a gynecologist.

I've rebuilt a few short block Chevy engines so I know how difficult it would be through the tailpipe.

I've taken the fuse panel off and saw it back there but thought someone mentioned I had to remove the stove to replace the convertor. Thanks for letting me that isn't the way to do it.

I would also have to change the setting on my Xantrex correct?

[ObiRich]

Originally Posted by GlasNav

No, but you will have to apply a jumper on the front of the charger to activate it as a LiFePo charger so it outputs the correct voltage.

Not if you have the 9855 AD with the updated firmware.

[ObiRich]

Originally Posted by Salty25

Do you have to change the fuse panel as well?

Not in my application.