Adding additional solar panel to Lance 1161

[BobGuy]

Just got a 2005 1161 for our Alaska trip this summer and plan to add a 130 watt solar panel to the 50 watt factory installed. My question is, will the solar charge controller handle the additional watts? I also need to know the open circuit voltage of the factory installed panel if anyone knows? Need to make sure the panels will work together.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Bob

[vsheetz]

I don't know specifics of the factory implementation, but unlikely it will handle additions. Probably best to install new larger and better controller and wire both factory and added panel to new controller.

[KD4UPL]

I would doubt they original controller has enough capacity for a 260% increase.
I would be quite certain the panel's Voc is around 17 or 18 volts. Since you'll be replacing the controller anyway it should be easy enough to disconnect the wires from the panel and measure the voltage.
The two panels ideally would have identical Voc but being off a volt or less will make little real difference.
Keep in mind with your installation that you will need fuses in series with the panels. Really, only the 50 watt would need it but I'd do them both. Fuse the 50 watt panel slightly above it's Isc. If it ever shorts out this will prevent the larger panel from pushing nearly 3 times it's rated amperage thru the short.

[BobGuy]

Thanks for the information.

Bob

[terry735001]

no upgrade ALL wiring as well you dont want a fire

you may not think solar has the power but it can start a fire really fast with under sized wiring

[805gregg]

Call Lance I've heard they have excellent support on the phone, not so good online, good luck

[bens170]

BobGuy,
Take a look at Lance Owners of America.com there are a few owners of both Lance trailers and TC's that are using and installing solar panels.
Ben