16 replies to this topic

[Happyjax]

So I have been reading all about solar setups and because I have no camper I have been giving advice based on my electronic knowledge.

Enough of that crap

 

I am building a solar suitcase for portable power.

 

I bought 2 Grape solar panels from Home Cheapo on sale. They were $70 a piece for 50 watt poly. Cheap enough for me to take the plunge.

 

At this point I have fashioned them into a set with a piano hinge and paralleled the connections.

 

I bought an inexpensive controller from Amazon that had good ratings.

 

I bought 2 35Ah Interstate AGM's which I will parallel for 70 Ah of bank.

 

I built the testing version out of wire that was available and am in the process of getting marine grade stuff which will be more flexible.

 

Pictures here are of my bench testing and temporary hookup. When I get a final build I'll update the pics  

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[Wandering Sagebrush]

Jackie, that's pretty neat. Nice work!

[ski3pin]

Jackie, that's pretty neat. Nice work!

 

Yes it is, good work!

[Happyjax]

Thanks guys

[Squatch]

Can't wait to see how it handles your fridge.

[PaulT]

Prior to getting your fridge, you could load test with something like this battery load tester.
http://t.harborfreig...ster-61747.html

Should give you some insight. If nothing else, works as a load to draw down the battery(s) after your solar system has fully charged it so you can try other settings in your charge controller.

Paul

[Happyjax]

Bought the Indel TF41. That will go on it after I get my wiring redone. I will report how it all goes:)

[wuck]

Nice sandbox to play in, and learn a bit

Run that fridge, a laptop, charge your phone. See how it all plays together. What flavor controller did you get ?

[Happyjax]

It's called MooHoo...lol cheapy from Amazon but well rated. Wouldn't charge at first but found the float voltage was set to low. Works like a champ so far but haven't put it through the ringer yet. That comes this weekend I hope. Waiting on wire and connectors to get it properly installed. Will check current out of the panels then also and update

[DannyB1954]

This site also has good info on solar for vehicles http://www.cheaprvliving.com/

right at the top under store, you will see solar and wind.