RE: [A/S] Re:Replacing converter/charger

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bill,

The only sure fix is a computerized control which monitors the battery
voltage, electrical resistance and temperature of the battery.  This is
exactly what is included in the circuitry of the modern power converters.  I
don't see any easy, economical way to add this to the old Univolt.  (Even if
one could cost effectively do this, you still would not have the high power
charging capability to quickly bring back a low charged battery.) Yes, the
old Univolt is built like a tank, but it is really lacking in smarts.  This
deficiency prevents it from 1. Rapidly and safely recharging a low charged
battery, 2. Maintaining a full charge on a lightly used or unloaded battery
without boiling off (overcharging) the electrolyte, and 3. Holding the
unused battery at its full power level ("stirring up the electrolyte") so
that the electrolyte does not stratify and thus lower the electrical storage
capacity of the battery.

Bottom line: I think the modern "intelligent" chargers have more going for
them than what the tanklike construction of the old Univolt has to offer.

Oliver Filippi