Home » Public Forums » GMCnet » Replacing the buzz box
| Replacing the buzz box [message #257244] |
Wed, 30 July 2014 20:58  |
thorndike
Messages: 406
Registered: January 2011
Location: Conifer, Colorado
Karma: 0
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After learning about the drawbacks to the original buzz box, I will be replacing it shortly and I have a couple questions.
First, I know a lot a folks are using the Progressive Dynamics box and seem to be happy with it. My question is, how to chose which box should I chose? I am not sure what "Peak Inrush Current" and "Input Current at Rated Power" means and how the difference specs will affect my usage. I know some have the PD9260 and others have the PD9245.
I would also like to know how I can verify that the electrical systems are currently charging the batteries thus proving that the current wiring is correct before making this major change.
Bob
I apologize for my ignorance!
Robert Peesel
1976 Royale 26'
Side Dry Bath
Conifer, Colorado
[Updated on: Wed, 30 July 2014 21:53] Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box [message #257252 is a reply to message #257244] |
Wed, 30 July 2014 22:01  |
Daniel DeLuca
Messages: 120
Registered: June 2014
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Robert,
I am afraid I don’t have any answers, but thought I’d add my questions since I am also considering this job.
i did not see any tutorials or write-ups on the GMC sites, am I to assume that the job is pretty much straight forward? In a “standard” set up does the original buzz box automatically come on when the coach is plugged in? I did not get any 12v when mine was plugged in.
Dan
On Jul 30, 2014, at 9:58 PM, Robert Peesel wrote:
> After learning about the drawbacks to the original buzz box, I will be replacing it shortly and I have a couple questions.
>
> First, I know a lot a folks are using the Progressive Dynamics box and seem to be happy with it. My question is, how to chose which box should I
> chose? I am not sure what "Peak Inrush Current" and "Input Current at Rated Power" means and what the difference specs will affect my usage. I know
> some have the PD9260 and others have the PD9245.
>
> I would also like to know how I can verify that the electrical systems are currently charging the batteries thus proving that the current wiring is
> correct before making this major change.
>
> Bob
>
> I apologize for my ignorance!
> --
> Robert Peesel
>
> 1976 Royale 26'
>
> Side Dry Bath
>
> Sterling, Va
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box [message #257253 is a reply to message #257244] |
Wed, 30 July 2014 22:08 |
jimk
Messages: 6734
Registered: July 2006
Location: Belmont, CA
Karma: 9
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Bob,
I ask the same question few times a day.
I prefer the 60 amp capacity as it will supply adequet amount when one has
two vent fans running ad several lights on and occasional water pump.
That Battery Wizard has been doing a great job for our customers.
On Wed, Jul 30, 2014 at 6:58 PM, Robert Peesel wrote:
> After learning about the drawbacks to the original buzz box, I will be
> replacing it shortly and I have a couple questions.
>
> First, I know a lot a folks are using the Progressive Dynamics box and
> seem to be happy with it. My question is, how to chose which box should I
> chose? I am not sure what "Peak Inrush Current" and "Input Current at
> Rated Power" means and what the difference specs will affect my usage. I
> know
> some have the PD9260 and others have the PD9245.
>
> I would also like to know how I can verify that the electrical systems are
> currently charging the batteries thus proving that the current wiring is
> correct before making this major change.
>
> Bob
>
> I apologize for my ignorance!
> --
> Robert Peesel
>
> 1976 Royale 26'
>
> Side Dry Bath
>
> Sterling, Va
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
--
Jim Kanomata
Applied/GMC, Fremont,CA
jimk@appliedairfilters.com
http://www.appliedgmc.com
1-800-752-7502
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Jim Kanomata
Applied/GMC
jimk@appliedairfilters.com
www.appliedgmc.com
1-800-752-7502
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box [message #257258 is a reply to message #257244] |
Wed, 30 July 2014 23:13 |
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USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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G'day,
I installed PD9260 because of its dimensions; it is not as tall as the PD9245 which made it possible to install it under the shelf
under the sink in the Avion's bathroom; its mounted to the top of the plastic fender well. The remote pendant tells me what it's
doing.
I did replace the 40 amp fuse on the house batteries under the passenger side twin bed with a 60 amp automatically resetting circuit
breaker.
To see if the Buzz Box is working connect a VOM to your house batteries and then unplug and plug it in. If the voltage drops at the
batteries when the BB is unplugged and goes up when it's plugged in it works.
To answer Dan's question; installing the PD9260 was straight forward, there's a positive and a negative cable from the batteries and
if I remember correctly a case ground. It plugs into a normal power point for 120VAC.
Regards,
Rob M.
The Pedantic Mechanic
USAussie - Downunder
USA '75 Avion - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
AUS '75 Avion - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
-----Original Message-----
From: Robert Peesel
After learning about the drawbacks to the original buzz box, I will be replacing it shortly and I have a couple questions.
First, I know a lot a folks are using the Progressive Dynamics box and seem to be happy with it. My question is, how to chose which
box should I chose? I am not sure what "Peak Inrush Current" and "Input Current at Rated Power" means and what the difference specs
will affect my usage. I know some have the PD9260 and others have the PD9245.
I would also like to know how I can verify that the electrical systems are currently charging the batteries thus proving that the
current wiring is correct before making this major change.
Bob
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GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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Regards,
Rob M. (USAussie)
The Pedantic Mechanic
Sydney, Australia
'75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
'75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box [message #257265 is a reply to message #257258] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 02:05 |
Mr ERFisher
Messages: 7117
Registered: August 2005
Karma: 2
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Senior Member |
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There is this info
http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/g4507-buzz-box-converter-problems-and-replacement.html
And this ( how to test, w/ kenb's flow chart)
http://gmc49ers.blogspot.com/2014/03/check-your-battery-system-through-your.html
Erf
On Wednesday, July 30, 2014, Rob Mueller wrote:
> G'day,
>
> I installed PD9260 because of its dimensions; it is not as tall as the
> PD9245 which made it possible to install it under the shelf
> under the sink in the Avion's bathroom; its mounted to the top of the
> plastic fender well. The remote pendant tells me what it's
> doing.
>
> I did replace the 40 amp fuse on the house batteries under the passenger
> side twin bed with a 60 amp automatically resetting circuit
> breaker.
>
> To see if the Buzz Box is working connect a VOM to your house batteries
> and then unplug and plug it in. If the voltage drops at the
> batteries when the BB is unplugged and goes up when it's plugged in it
> works.
>
> To answer Dan's question; installing the PD9260 was straight forward,
> there's a positive and a negative cable from the batteries and
> if I remember correctly a case ground. It plugs into a normal power point
> for 120VAC.
>
> Regards,
> Rob M.
> The Pedantic Mechanic
> USAussie - Downunder
> USA '75 Avion - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
> AUS '75 Avion - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Robert Peesel
>
> After learning about the drawbacks to the original buzz box, I will be
> replacing it shortly and I have a couple questions.
>
> First, I know a lot a folks are using the Progressive Dynamics box and
> seem to be happy with it. My question is, how to chose which
> box should I chose? I am not sure what "Peak Inrush Current" and "Input
> Current at Rated Power" means and what the difference specs
> will affect my usage. I know some have the PD9260 and others have the
> PD9245.
>
> I would also like to know how I can verify that the electrical systems are
> currently charging the batteries thus proving that the
> current wiring is correct before making this major change.
>
> Bob
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
--
Gene Fisher -- 74-23,77PB/ore/ca
“Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today --- give him a URL and
-------
http://gmcmotorhome.info/
Alternator Protection Cable
http://gmcmotorhome.info/APC.html
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| Re: Replacing the buzz box [message #257278 is a reply to message #257244] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 08:14 |
lqqkatjon
Messages: 2324
Registered: October 2010
Location: St. Cloud, MN
Karma: 5
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Senior Member |
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for the price of replacing batteries.. from my experience, the 3 stage charger is a must have item. Install that progressive dynamics charger, and really do not have to worry about the batteries.
the other nice thing and was the original reason I installed mine, is it is quiet. that buzz box lived up to its name and it buzzed!
I installed that progressive dymamics 60 amp unit, and new batteries at the same time about 3 years ago, and I have only once had add any water to the batteries, and it was such a small amount. it just takes care of things.
as for 60 or 45 amp units, 60 is preferred, just in case you do want to power alot of stuff, but I am sure 45 amps would be just fine, especially in our day and age of LED lighting.
Jon Roche
75 palm beach
EBL EFI, manny headers, Micro Level, rebuilt most of coach now.
St. Cloud, MN
http://lqqkatjon.blogspot.com/
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| Re: Replacing the buzz box [message #257285 is a reply to message #257244] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 09:26 |
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Matt Colie
Messages: 8547
Registered: March 2007
Location: S.E. Michigan
Karma: 7
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Senior Member |
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thorndike wrote on Wed, 30 July 2014 21:58After learning about the drawbacks to the original buzz box, I will be replacing it shortly and I have a couple questions.
First, I know a lot a folks are using the Progressive Dynamics box and seem to be happy with it. My question is, how to chose which box should I chose? I am not sure what "Peak Inrush Current" and "Input Current at Rated Power" means and how the difference specs will affect my usage. I know some have the PD9260 and others have the PD9245.
I would also like to know how I can verify that the electrical systems are currently charging the batteries thus proving that the current wiring is correct before making this major change.
Bob
I apologize for my ignorance!
Bob,
Ignorance can be cured, with some effort. Stupid, you just can't fix... You're here, you got one covered.
Want to know if your house bank is being charged?
Easy Way...
Unplug shore power. Hit the switch on the monitor and read what the battery meter says.
Now, plug in shore power and read it again.
Did it go up?? (It will a little even if the house bank is fully charged.) It's charging.
To all intents and purposes, if you have only 2ea GC-2 (or the like) for a house bank, the 9245 and 9260 will serve adequately. There is just no way that you can throw more charge at the house bank without risking all the 12V equipment onboard. If your budget will accommodate a 9260, go for it. You only have to buy it once and your batteries will love you for it.
As to Peak inrush and line current at full load. If it plugs into a standard 120V receptacle, it doesn't matter unless you are also trying to run two 15K roof units, the water heater and a microwave on a 4kW generator.
There are also other choices. Iota is a good supplier, but I would still have reservations about both Parallex and WFCO.
Matt - underway to the GMCES Mid-summer Family Rally
Matt & Mary Colie - Chaumière -'73 Glacier 23 - Members GMCMI, GMCGL, GMCES
Electronically Controlled Quiet Engine Cooling Fan with OE Rear Drum Brakes with Applied Control Arms
SE Michigan - Near DTW - Twixt A2 and Detroit
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| Re: Replacing the buzz box [message #257286 is a reply to message #257285] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 09:35 |
tphipps
Messages: 3005
Registered: August 2004
Location: Spanish Fort, AL
Karma: 9
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Senior Member |
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If your buzz box is buzzing, it's working at something. You could feel the buzz box for temperature, if higher than ambient, it's working. PD 9245 or 9260 are both good choices. Check their web site for deals, especially on "rebuilds."
Just remove the buzz box and replace it with the new charger, wiring should just transfer. Red to Red, Black to Black. Piece of cake to do.
Tom, MS II
2012 Phoenix Cruiser model 2552
KA4CSG
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| Re: Replacing the buzz box [message #257290 is a reply to message #257244] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 10:20 |
habbyguy
Messages: 896
Registered: May 2012
Location: Mesa, AZ
Karma: 3
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One other benefit of the PD chargers that has been skimmed over in this thread - you'll eliminate about 40 pounds of boat anchor from your coach. Yeah, that's a small percentage of a 10,000 pound vehicle, but it means every time you pull away from a stop sign or climb a hill, you'll be using a few drops less gasoline and get up to speed a few milliseconds sooner. I'm sure that alone would eventually pay for the PD charger, though having your batteries last 4-5x longer is no doubt the bigger economic advantage.
Mark Hickey
Mesa, AZ
1978 Royale Center Kitchen
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| Re: Replacing the buzz box [message #257291 is a reply to message #257244] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 10:22 |
Carl S.
Messages: 4186
Registered: January 2009
Location: Tucson, AZ.
Karma: 13
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When I first brought my coach home, not knowing the potential problem with the 'buzz box', I plugged it in and left it that way for a couple of weeks. When I finally got around the checking the house batteries (two GC-2s), the water was below the top of the plates. I pulled them out and refilled them and actually got adequate service out of them for a while.
Two of the first things I did were to replace the buzz box with a PD-9245 at Jim Bounds' suggestion. I also bought it from him, paying slightly more than I would have on Ebay or Amazon, because I have an stronger interest in keeping our venders in business that in saving a few dollars. The 9245 has been more than adequate. Up until a few years ago, when I added a solar charge system, I kept the coach plugged in at all times. I have never had an issue with batteries since. Living in the desert Southwest, I check and add water every few months, but the batteries are always maintained at the proper level.
Jim B told me the PD unit is "plug and play" and it truly is. The only other thing I did to install it was to upgrade the cable size between the charger/converter and the 12v terminal in the back of the electrical compartment, as well as the feed to the 12v panel. IIRC, I used either 8 gauge or 6 gauge thhn wire. It was a very easy installation. I think if I ever have to replace it, I will go with a 9260 for the extra capacity in case I increase the size of my house battery bank.
Carl Stouffer
'75 ex Palm Beach
Tucson, AZ.
Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm Disc Brakes, Quadrabags, 3.70 LSD final drive, Lenzi knuckles/hubs, Dodge Truck 16" X 8" front wheels, Rear American Eagles, Solar battery charging. GMCSJ and GMCMI member
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| Re: Replacing the buzz box [message #257327 is a reply to message #257244] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 15:16 |
thorndike
Messages: 406
Registered: January 2011
Location: Conifer, Colorado
Karma: 0
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Ok, I just ordered the PD9260. I was able to get a warranteed, remanufactured device for $193.00 which includes shipping. I hope that's a good price!
Bob
Robert Peesel
1976 Royale 26'
Side Dry Bath
Conifer, Colorado
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| Re: Replacing the buzz box [message #257338 is a reply to message #257327] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 16:43 |
tphipps
Messages: 3005
Registered: August 2004
Location: Spanish Fort, AL
Karma: 9
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Bob, Do not toss your Buzzbox into the trash. Add a meter and use it as a 12v bench power supply. It is nice to have a high amp power supply around for momentary testing purposes. Of course, assuming it still functions.
Tom, MS II
2012 Phoenix Cruiser model 2552
KA4CSG
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box [message #257394 is a reply to message #257327] |
Thu, 31 July 2014 23:32 |
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USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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Senior Member |
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Bob,
Sorry, nope:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_sacat=0&_nkw=progressive++dynamics+PD9260&_sop=15
Hey you asked!
Regards,
Rob M.
The Pedantic Mechanic
USAussie - Downunder
USA '75 Avion - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
AUS '75 Avion - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
-----Original Message-----
From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org [mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Robert Peesel
Sent: Thursday, July 31, 2014 3:17 PM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box
Ok, I just ordered the PD9260. I was able to get a warranteed, remanufactured device for $193.00 which includes shipping. I hope
that's a good price!
Bob
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Regards,
Rob M. (USAussie)
The Pedantic Mechanic
Sydney, Australia
'75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
'75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box [message #258574 is a reply to message #257275] |
Tue, 12 August 2014 09:20 |
Len Novak
Messages: 676
Registered: February 2004
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Karma: -3
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Senior Member |
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I used a Boondocker from Best converter. Bolts right in.
Len and Pat
1978 GMC Kingsley
The Beast II with dash lights that work and labels you can see!
Fallbrook, CA new email: B52Rule@Roadrunner.Com
http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=4375
www.bdub.net/novak/
-----Original Message-----
From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org [mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Espen Heitmann
Sent: Thursday, July 31, 2014 5:33 AM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Replacing the buzz box
Bought the PD9260 for DT this spring, easy to install and no problems with it, even with the 12v frigde running for 3 weeks I never heard the fan comming on, for me 60 amps was more then enough, I would never be able to be even close to that with everything running but it will give a faster recharge of the household batteries over the PD9245.
--
1973 26'-3 # 1460 Parrot green Seqouia Known as the Big Mean Green Machine, And just sold my 1973 26'-2 # 581 White Canyon lands under the name Dobbelt trøbbel in Norway
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Len and Pat Novak
1978 GMC Kingsley
The Beast II with dash lights that work and labels you can see!
Las Vegas, NV new email: B52sRule@Gmail.com
http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=4375
www.bdub.net/novak/
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