How to wire in a converter? - Hi-Lo camper travel trailer forum

Kycabledog57 · 06-07-2015, 11:57 PM

I have recently purchased a 1973 Hi-Lo and I have two questions.

I have a AC to DC Converter that I would like to wire in the system since my model had no converter. Can someone send me a drawing of how their unit is wired in? I guess in 1973 they had other things to worry about.

Also, I bought a new battery for the 12V side and after leaving it connected overnight with nothing on just the POS and NEG hooked up, the battery was dead the next morning. Any suggestions on what to check that could be drawing down the voltage? I put a volt meter on the battery and could watch the voltage being drawn but have no clue what could be on that is causing the drain. The only thing I haven't checked is the bath fan. Seems as if some critters made a nest in there and I have yet to clean it out. Does the fan in the bathroom run on DC?

Thanks!!

JackandJanet · 06-08-2015, 12:50 AM

The fan would definitely be a 12V DC component, but, if it is not turning, or "humming" or doesn't feel warm, then that is not your problem.

I suspect the safety brake switch is closed, which sends battery power to the electric brakes in your trailer. This switch is activated by a pull cable that you attach to the tow vehicle so that if the hitch becomes disconnected while towing, the trailer brakes are applied so that the trailer doesn't turn sideways and possibly flip.

Trace the cable up to the switch, which is probably under the tongue, and push the plunger in. It may take quite a bit of force to do this, it does on mine. That will turn the trailer brakes off.

You can also check if the brakes are engaged by jacking up one side of the trailer and seeing if you can spin a wheel. Of course, you need a charged battery for this test. Supposedly, you can hear a "hum" from the brakes if they are electrically activated, but I've never been able to hear mine.

- Jack

RichR · 06-08-2015, 08:16 AM

If you have a 3 way fridge turned to the 12 volt mode it will kill a battery quickly.

If you don't have a manual for the converter hookup try using Google and put the name and model in and see if you can locate a manual to download.

Kycabledog57 · 06-08-2015, 06:20 PM

I decided to check the bath fan just on instinct. Took out the screws and I bet there were 20 old wasp nest and mud bobbers nest in there. Cleaned it all out and went over to the battery and hooked up the battery and the fan started turning, which meant it was trying to turn with al that garbage in there and draining the battery. At least that is what I hope!!

Thanks for the help guys. Definitely appreciate it!!

renoites · 06-09-2015, 01:00 AM

Leaving the switch in the lower mode(drop) will also drain battery quick.

If you don't have a MOMENTARY SWITCH for the lift and drop it is a must to replace. AsK me how I know!

I have a 1985 funchaser. And I must say we have chased our fun. Over 20k miles in 4 years.

This project shouldn't be hard except for access. The wiring is very straight forward.
Use a 120v box with 3-4 circuits. One of which feeds the converter. One would feed the a/c or any high power device, another for the wall outlets.
Be sure to install a GFCI in the power plug at the the end of the 120v line.