BCM Community

Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: Singing Land Cruiser on February 28, 2010, 09:15:03 AM

Title: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: Singing Land Cruiser on February 28, 2010, 09:15:03 AM
Hello all, I found this inverter on C-list offered at $300. new. Is this a good brand? Here is the link;
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/esd/rvs/1620946038.html (http://sandiego.craigslist.org/esd/rvs/1620946038.html)
Thanks, M&C
BTW, we can't afford PS at this time.
Title: Re: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: Stormcloud on February 28, 2010, 09:31:28 AM
If I was needing one, that one would certainly be suitable.
Xantrex is certainly a good brand, and that one has a built-in 30amp transfer switch too.

Although pure sine may be required at times, we have been quite happy with MSW (so far).



Title: Re: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: TomC on February 28, 2010, 09:36:32 AM
Something to consider- I have a Trace 2,500 watt 2512 model that has a three stage (programmable for battery type) battery charger in it.  While parked it keeps the batteries up at float, charges at the end of the day, or when dry camping charges the batteries when running the generator. I highly recommend that you get an inverter with the battery charging function.  The advertised inverter will work as stated, but what do you do when the batteries are run down after using the inverter?  Except of course if you already have a separate battery charger.  Good Luck, TomC
Title: Re: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: Just Dallas on February 28, 2010, 10:18:45 AM
Removed
Title: !
Post by: JohnEd on February 28, 2010, 11:57:36 AM
Trace is and was a super brand for performance and reliability.  Really REALLY big problem is support.  The lack of support and the scripted policy driven subterfuge is breathtaking.  I have talked to three Fact authorized Repair joints and that is my experience.....personally.  Adding to the probability that it is the entire organization consider the Dick Wright, local hero and known good guy, no longer carries Xantreck because, I have been told, of customer support issues that went on for a couple years without any sign of improvement seen by him.....I am told.  Dick will only recommend the Max units and the Outback brand, I think.  For the record I own a Zantrek Freedom and it performs really well now that I REPAIRED IT MYSELF....with guidance and $18 worth of tiny MOSFETS .  They wanted $1,200 repair charge to install them and repeatedly told me that they would not guarantee that that would fix the problem and that the repair charge would probably total more than the cost of a new unit and would have no warranty whatsoever......get the picture?   My experience is the common one...I am told.  I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND GETTING ANYTHING MADE UNDER THAT BRAND NAME.....EVER.  They own Hart Inverters and other domestic brands and treat all customers with the same consideration and care.  CAVEAT EMPTOR! (sic)

Did I mention that mine is working very well?  Did I also mention how little that should be worth as far as your decision is concerned?  In the future I won't pull my punches and I will talk plain.

John, The Recalcitrant

You need an inverter with a high current DC charge capability.....more than 100 amps.  It also needs to be a three step charger or you will be eating those $200 batteries that should last 5 years.   Check the price on a 120 amp three step stand alone charger for a shock.  Pun intended.
Title: Re: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: belfert on February 28, 2010, 12:48:51 PM
Other than the brand name, the Xpower inverters aren't all that different from a lot of the Chinese made inverters these days.

Most everything Xantrex makes now is made in China.
Title: Re: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: Singing Land Cruiser on February 28, 2010, 06:18:10 PM
Thank you one and all for your insite. How about the price? Is it fare? M&C
Title: Re: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: JohnEd on February 28, 2010, 09:46:46 PM
That isn't a good price.  Especially when you consider you don't have the charger.  Check Ebay and get some buyer protection in the mix.
Title: Re: Inverter ?, Is this a good brand?
Post by: Singing Land Cruiser on March 01, 2010, 07:20:05 AM
Thanks JE, I will check. M&C