Testing Converter/Charger?

[Horst]

How can I test to see that my coach deep cycle battery is getting a charge when plugged into shore power, or when the engine is running?

My electrical skills are lagging a bit - so laymen's instructions greatly appreciated.

I have an older Sears Dwell/Tach that has some electrical "testing" stuff on it (I never used those features - only for measuring dwell , RPM, etc.)
Also have a Costco battery charger (but doubt that will be useful for diagnostic purposes)

Thanks much
Horst #2961

[handyman]

The best way is use a multi meter when your plugged in or the engine is running you should be reading between 13.6 and 14.6 same as the engine battery, when staic you should read between 12.6 and 13.6 hope this helps

[Rodney]

I see this is an old post but is right where I am at trying to solve a no charging problem with the converter. you can have progressive dynamics e-mail you a complete trouble shooting guide. They have been great to work with. http://www.progressivedyn.com/contactus.html
handyman is right to use a meter at the battery or control panel. but to accurately test for charge the battery needs to be disgharged to between 11.5 and 12.5 volts dc now the conveter will see the battery needs to charge the the remaining 10% at a rate of 1/2 amp. mine didn't charge :cry:  so have parts coming for the repairs and have my fingers crossed that this will take care of the problem. so far the unit is fairly easy to work on after you can get to it. this was more of a problem than it first looked.  to check the amps for charging you need to connect the gauge between the pos lug  of the panel first remove the wire then connect the other lead to the wire. it took me a bit to figure this out as electric aren't my strong suit but with the help from Pregressive dynamics it can be done. {I hope}.