What is the small solar panel for?

[Airboss68]

Originally Posted by rag_ftw

In response to OPs original post: That small solar panel is SUPPOSED to keep the chassis batteries topped off when not running the engine for extended periods.
They have been know to short and draw 2+amps in stead of charging. You should have a quick disconnect on the roof where the wires go into what appears to be a tank vent. Unhook it and see if that helps. I had to replace mine a few years back.

Arrrrrgh, it pays to read the TS forums every day almost always learn something useful.

Since I first got my TS I have been wondering what the little solar panel was for.

Thought it was for some aftermarket gizmo that the prior owner installed and removed.

Since I first got my TS I have been chasing why my chassis batteries do not charge on shore power.

Now I gotta go up on the frickin roof.

[texasrs]

I've seen that small solar panel on my roof, as well. But, I have never located a "controller" for it. Has anyone else found one?

Ray

2006 TSS DL14

[AccessMaster]

What is the BIRD?
I am still running some tests before I add more confusion to my results.

[alfetch]

Originally Posted by texasrs

I've seen that small solar panel on my roof, as well. But, I have never located a "controller" for it. Has anyone else found one?

Ray

2006 TSS DL14

No controller....it's only a 5 watt panel....no chance of over charging your chassis batteries.

[alfetch]

Originally Posted by AccessMaster

What is the BIRD?
I am still running some tests before I add more confusion to my results.

Here is what Intellitec says about their product:

Intellitec’s Bi-Directional Isolator Relay Dealy – Diesel™ offers a new approach to charging batteries in an RV which uses an alternator. Adding a small dash-mounted switch will allow emergency starts of diesel engines, requiring up to 800 amps of starter current. Unlike proper systems that only allowed charging the RV battery from the engine’s alternator, the Bi-Directional Isolator Relay Delay – Diesel™ chargers both batteries when either one is being charged. When the coach is being driven, both batteries will be charged from the engine’s alternator. When the coach is plugged into shore power, both batteries will be charged from the converter. If neither battery is being charged, the batteries are fully isolated. The controller also senses heavy loads on either battery to prevent the wrong battery from being inadvertently discharged.

[texasrs]

alfetch,

Thanks,
Ray.