ESM4 problems, can I upgrade?

[Johnrhespaceman]

Hi everyone, my ESM4 charger seems to be on the blink as the LED lights pulse and the charger clicks when connected to the mains. I know these units are like rocking horse doo doos and trying to find a replacement is tricky. Does anyone know if there is an easy upgrade or replacement that I can do a straight swap rather than sending the unit off to be repaired?

An alternative is to turn the charger off and use a decent solar panel. Any advice greatly received!
Thanks, John

 

[audiorob]

Apuljack have an excellent reputation for repair or for a replacement unit:

Plug In Systems ESM Battery Charger | Apuljack Electronics

Plug In Systems power supply and breaker unit

www.apuljackelectronics.co.uk

 

[Johnrhespaceman]

Thanks, I was hoping that there is something either new or a different model that I could find second hand that could be an easy swap.

 

[ProfJohnL]

I wouldn't even consider buying a second hand charger offered on its own, Why would anyone try and sell just a second hand specific caravan charger? Most likely because its need to be replaced.

Your best choices would be seek a quality repair, or replace the entire unit with quality multistage battery charger.

 

[Johnrhespaceman]

I wouldn't even consider buying a second hand charger offered on its own, Why would anyone try and sell just a second hand specific caravan charger? Most likely because its need to be replaced.

Your best choices would be seek a quality repair, or replace the entire unit with quality multistage battery charger.

Are you able to suggest a charger that would be an easyish swap. Dismantlers would and do sell second hand units as they make their money from stripping vans.

 

[ProfJohnL]

Scrap yards do make money from selling dismantled caravans, but look at the warranty they will offer - very limited. If it suits you and its at a throw away price then you may be lucky, but all of these units will be well past their best, and thue nearer to failing than when brand new.

If you are looking for drop in reliable unit you will be best served one of the remanufacturers such as APULJACK or A and R Electronics reworking your own box, back to often better than new!

The alternative is to disconnect the internal charger and source a multistage charger (for example Ctek or similar units) and get them wired in externally to the existing charger.

If you are serious about solar panels, then look to invest in quality Solar power system with about 200W of panels.

 

[Dustydog]

Plus 2 for Apuljack
I have one of their own direct BCA replacements. Hi tech etc.

 

[Buckman]

Scrap yards do make money from selling dismantled caravans, but look at the warranty they will offer - very limited. If it suits you and its at a throw away price then you may be lucky, but all of these units will be well past their best, and thue nearer to failing than when brand new.

Don't the scrap yards have to comply with CRA 2015?

 

[ProfJohnL]

Don't the scrap yards have to comply with CRA 2015?

As well you know every UK retail sale is subject to the CRA, but if the goods are described by the seller as "second hand and sold as seen" (or equivalent wording) then that statement forms part of the contract and the risk falls on the buyer.

 

[Buckman]

As well you know every UK retail sale is subject to the CRA, but if the goods are described by the seller as "second hand and sold as seen" (or equivalent wording) then that statement forms part of the contract and the risk falls on the buyer.

Does that include cars, caravans etc as I thought "sold as seen" did not apply to dealers?

 

[Dustydog]

CRA was designed to protect the buyer against the seller.

The car or caravan may well be “Sold as seen” but if it turns out to be unroadworthy or not as described the buyer may still have a right to seek redress from the buyer under CRA.
It may be difficult.

If in the Prof’s case the “sold as seen” forms part of the contract for sale. It may be that further clarification is required. Maybe the dealer needs to be more specific and say it is not roadworthy and is basically sold as scrap!

Our local caravan dealer has their bargain basement models . All circa £500. They make it clear there are no guarantees or warranties and the condition of each caravan is as seen .

I am not aware of any of the grey areas being tested in Court.