24-12V converter problem

[monton]

I'm wondering if someone can help me with a problem. I have a Powerstream 24 - 12 volt converter. I have been using it with no problems for a little over a year. Recently my alarm and stereo both stopped working. Actually my stereo would come on for a couple of seconds and then shut off, come on and then shut off... and so on. I checked the voltage going in = 24 volts consistently. The voltage coming off the converter fluctuates between 13.8 and 9 volts every couple of seconds, hence the stereo coming on and shutting off. Then I checked the same thing with the engine off and there is no problem... the stereo works fine. So the converter only has this problem with the engine running. I have double checked the ground to the converter and am confident that it is good. I don't know what is going on.

Any suggestions????

Thanks.

 

[Bobbrown]

Not sure but converter may be limited by votage if alternator is spiking over 30 volts shuts down . So would work if motor not running.

 

[monton]

sure, but voltage going in is steady.

 

[chambers60]

something that is heat related? bad conntact to a heat sink?, or connection that is either disrupted by vibration or moves slightly when hot (powered) creating an intermittent connection? try isolating the convertor, it that doesn't solve it try cooling it ( use brake clean as when it evaps it really cools things off, but doesn't wreck the piece your spraying). my $0.02 worth.
Bob

 

[brownbear]

Your sure the voltage in is steady while running? You have used your meter while running?

 

[monton]

Voltage going in is definitely steady while running. I have pulled the converter and sent it back for repair. I'll post when it gets back... I'm curious if the low draw has damaged my stereo and alarm.