Community Forums

okmunky · 05-25-2018, 01:16 PM

I have 272 watts of Uni-Solar panels on my roof. I added a 100 watt Mighty Max panel last winter to the side of my Class C using an adjustable mount so I could remove that extra panel for travel. The cables tie into the combiner box at the rear of my RV.

I'm now parked at my daughter's house near Seattle and the only available flat spot is under trees. I need to set that extra panel on the ground about 15’ from the front of the RV - not far from the charge controller and batteries - so that it can get sun.

Can you recommend a socket and plug that I can mount thru the sidewall of the RV so that I can just plug-in the 10 gauge solar cable? I can run the wiring directly to the charge controller.

This is what I'm considering if it will work -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T36YVI4...527271071&sr=2

Using this as the plug
https://www.amazon.com/CES-Gauge-Qui...+plug+10+gauge

Thanks!

astrocamper · 05-25-2018, 01:23 PM

My trailer came with one of the ZAMP (SAE) connectors. I had about 4 of them on my old cargo trailer that I used to access 12 volt power when outside.

They are pretty simple and should be straight forward to install.

harryn · 05-25-2018, 02:21 PM

How about a standard MC4 connector?

okmunky · 05-25-2018, 05:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by harryn

How about a standard MC4 connector?

They aren’t easy to unplug and how would I mount it thru the side of the RV? I'm thinking of something more "socket" like that can be firmly attached.

pauldub · 05-25-2018, 08:43 PM

I just plug into 110 when we camp at our daughter's house. If you're on the east side, you might want to drop by Vetco Electronics and see if they might have some connectors that appeal to you. I really don't care for those connectors that you've linked to. I'd probably go with Anderson Power Pole connectors.

okmunky · 05-25-2018, 11:07 PM

This 97 year old house needs a $40K electrical upgrade. It's just not practical or safe to run 150’ of extension cords out to the only place I can park. The house is on a steep hill overlooking Lake Washington. I'll check Vetco and Anderson. Thanks!

rarebear.nm · 05-25-2018, 11:55 PM

Barb,

I understand exactly what you need. I did have one saved on my Amazon list but can’t find it now. It was a low voltage (12-48) wall mount receptacle and matching plug. I looked around tonight and can’t find it now. But I have also considered using this.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Battery-Q...&wl13=&veh=sem

Normally used for battery jumper cables. They can be screwed to a surface, perhaps under the Rv.

Either case I would add disconnect switch and a breaker inside the Rv from this connection.

We’re just past Prince George, Canada tonight, headed north.

vsheetz · 05-25-2018, 11:58 PM

Anderson connectors. I use them to connect two 100w panels made portable as another string to my solar controller.

okmunky · 05-26-2018, 12:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rarebear.nm

Barb,

I understand exactly what you need. I did have one saved on my Amazon list but can’t find it now. It was a low voltage (12-48) wall mount receptacle and matching plug. I looked around tonight and can’t find it now. But I have also considered using this.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Battery-Q...&wl13=&veh=sem

Normally used for battery jumper cables. They can be screwed to a surface, perhaps under the Rv.

Either case I would add disconnect switch and a breaker inside the Rv from this connection.

We’re just past Prince George, Canada tonight, headed north.

Thanks Fred! Those should work. I'm also looking at CDLinko connectors but they are pricey!

https://www.amazon.com/CNLINKO-Indus.../dp/B072JJHPZ5

Stay warm and safe up there!

vsheetz · 05-26-2018, 02:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rarebear.nm

Barb,

I understand exactly what you need. I did have one saved on my Amazon list but can’t find it now. It was a low voltage (12-48) wall mount receptacle and matching plug. I looked around tonight and can’t find it now. But I have also considered using this.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Battery-Q...&wl13=&veh=sem

Normally used for battery jumper cables. They can be screwed to a surface, perhaps under the Rv.

Either case I would add disconnect switch and a breaker inside the Rv from this connection.

We’re just past Prince George, Canada tonight, headed north.

These from Wal-Mart are a Anderson connector. They are available in differing amperage and physical sizes and mounting options.

astrocamper · 05-26-2018, 09:54 AM

Powerwerx.com carries a lot of PowerPole connectors, parts and wire. I use the stuff for my astronomy power distribution. It's really easy to work with up to 10 awg wire with 45 amp connectors. They have a 45 amp weather resistant housing that you could mount through your trailer wall. I have a crimper that can use the 15, 30 or 45 amp connectors and make up a lot of my own cables.

I had them make a 25 foot 4 awg cable using the 120 amp PowerPole connectors on each end. I had them also make a pair of 2 foot long 120 amp PowerPole to 3/8 in lug cables that go to power lugs at my trailer and truck. I use it to link my trucks solar system to my trailer with very low voltage drop. They have a web page for building custom cables to what you want.

ByeTheWay · 05-27-2018, 05:59 PM

I have tried Anderson and Powerwerx, but have found a 3 pro extension cord ends from Home Depot much easier. I do have to watch how many amps I'm using and the distance. But there are charts for this info on line.