Best way to mount solar on our trailers

[funpilot]

Done....generator it is.  Thanks again guys.  

[admin]

To run something like AC and or a Microwave off solar you would need such a large array of panels to supply a huge bank of batteries which in turn supplies a massive inverter. This would be impractical, expensive, and over the top for camping. It is possible if you have enough money to overcome common sense

[funpilot]

[quote source="/post/1774/thread" timestamp="1404231199" author="@admin"]To run something like AC and or a Microwave off solar you would need such a large array of panels to supply a huge bank of batteries which in turn supplies a massive inverter. This would be impractical, expensive, and over the top for camping. It is possible if you have enough money to overcome common sense [/quote][p]I was planning to get a generator to do that stuff anyway.  But the more I think about it, the type of camping that I would want solar for is going to be rare for me.  So, the only open question is "Do I get the solar-ready option" so that it makes it easier to sell later on?  It is $200.00[/p][p]
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[mitch]

What does the solar ready option consist of?

[admin]

I dont know if having it as "solar ready" would be a huge selling point. $200 is not a lot of money in the big picture but if all you get for the money is some pre-run wire I'd pass. Perhaps if it included a decent charge controler as well I'd be more interested since they can often be a decent cost if you get a quality unit.

[charliem]

[quote source="/post/1775/thread" timestamp="1404232667" author="@funpilot"][p] It is $200.00[/p][p]
[/p][/quote][font size="3"][font face="arial"]A lot of money for some wire and a connector.[/font][/font]

[funpilot]

I have tried to get a detailed description but no luck so far.  Will let you know when I get it.  If I do not get it, I will pass on the solar-ready.  

[funpilot]

Ok, it is a wire only.  They say they install a waterproof grummet in the roof and they will use any gauge wire I request.  I decided to get it and asked for 6 gauge wire.

[tinkeringtechie]

[quote source="/post/1804/thread" timestamp="1404316795" author="@funpilot"]Ok, it is a wire only.  They say they install a waterproof grummet in the roof and they will use any gauge wire I request.  I decided to get it and asked for 6 gauge wire.[/quote]
So it starts on the roof and ends up where? If they don't include a charge controller then you'll need to be able to access it both for installation and for monitoring/configuring.

[funpilot]

The dealer said it goes down to the battery cables.  Will confirm from LL.  Thanks for the continuing great questions I forget to ask.

[tinkeringtechie]

[quote source="/post/1813/thread" timestamp="1404325286" author="@funpilot"]The dealer said it goes down to the battery cables.  Will confirm from LL.  Thanks for the continuing great questions I forget to ask. [/quote]Just make sure it's not actually connected to the battery cables. If they just run them to the battery box that should be fine, but plan on buying a bigger battery box to fit the controller inside.

[funpilot]

Does one get that battery box from LL or is it easy to get as aftermarket? Confirmed that it goes to the batteries but not attached.  

[tinkeringtechie]

[quote source="/post/1818/thread" timestamp="1404326161" author="@funpilot"]Does one get that battery box from LL or is it easy to get as aftermarket? Confirmed that it goes to the batteries but not attached.  [/quote]I think that's a dealer-provided accessory, but it is easy to get aftermarket. LL puts a tray on the tongue, so make sure the tray is big enough.

[charliem]

[quote source="/post/1819/thread" timestamp="1404327015" author="@tinkeringtechie"][quote source="/post/1818/thread" timestamp="1404326161" author="@funpilot"]Does one get that battery box from LL or is it easy to get as aftermarket? Confirmed that it goes to the batteries but not attached.  [/quote]I think that's a dealer-provided accessory, but it is easy to get aftermarket. LL puts a tray on the tongue, so make sure the tray is big enough.[/quote][font face="arial" size="3"]A note of caution here: The stock battery rack from LL is for a single group 24 battery. I specified a rack to accommodate two [/font][font face="arial" size="3"]6V GC2 batteries and that's what I got. What I forgot was the battery cases, which would not fit. Strange! Beware of what you ask for...you may get it. Fortunately the battery rack is just aluminum angle bolted to the tongue. AL angle is easy to obtain and work with so I'll build a frame to accommodate the two GC2s and cases (maybe four  ). 
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[funpilot]

Endless wisdom here.  I hope I am on track as I sent them this link for the batteries I will first get:

http://www.usbattery.com/usb_us2200xc_golf.html

Thanks to the new poster who posted pics on his 28BHS and a phone call with him, I was able to confirm that sales was mistaken on an item.  The propane quick connect for a BBQ is not standard on the 28BHS so more good feedback.  They will add it. Also sent a follow-up email to LL to be sure they understand that by using a 6 volt battery, I need space for 2.  Also asked if they can make room for the controller.  They must be close to ordering a "hit" out on me.