Adding to "Go Power" solar system

[johnwuch]

I did not think of adding another controller. Having 2 separate systems makes sense. Thanks again for all the useful information.

[garbonz]

Originally Posted by Sue46

Twinboat, your math is wrong. We thought for a long time that you just divide the wattage by 12 v but have since learned you divide the wattage with the VMPP of the panel(typically around 18). So a 160 watt panel will produce 160/18=8.8 amps.

Everyone likes to use 12 as the denominator and are disappointed when they don't get what they think they should, and then the flat panels on the roof only produce 80 % of that, and then the AC shades them and you got the real world. Like 25 amps max out of a 600 amp system.

[ByeTheWay]

Originally Posted by OLYLEN

Gosh I'm sorry, I agree with Twinboat. While you experimental engineering might be OK and I do say might, your advising over the top of being conservative with possible fire consequences. YUP the engineers said the Titanic was unsinkable, tell that to the swimmers.

LEN

X2 and don't forget about the "edge of cloud effect"

[bepar108]

I have a 2018 37PA on order, which I ordered with Solar prewiring. What would be involved in hooking up a double panel portable solar system. Can I do the connections without having to do anything with the roof wiring. Does the pre wiring include a controller? I just want to be able to set those panels outside the rig when camping or even when parked on my driveway when not using the rig. Any advice on the pre wiring would be appreciated.

[Mr. Coffee]

Originally Posted by bepar108

I have a 2018 37PA on order, which I ordered with Solar prewiring. What would be involved in hooking up a double panel portable solar system. Can I do the connections without having to do anything with the roof wiring. Does the pre wiring include a controller? I just want to be able to set those panels outside the rig when camping or even when parked on my driveway when not using the rig. Any advice on the pre wiring would be appreciated.

Bepar,
The portable systems are plug and play. They have the panels, controller and wiring. You can just use the alligator type connectors that usually come with them or if you have a port on the side of your trailer it can plug in there. You don’t have to do anything with the roof wiring to use it.

On the prewiring, it really depends on what your manufacturer installed. It has been my experience that most manufacturers don’t use large enough of a gauge for the wiring. If you have time, there is a wealth of information on HandyBob’s solar Blog.

Cheers,
Chris

[garbonz]

Prewire usually means that the MFG ran a wire to a spot on the roof that you can access and left it taped up near the batteries somewhere. The rest of the install with solar panels and controller is up to you. AND yes the wire gauge is probably smaller than anything but a 100 or so watts without significant voltage drop.