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02-14-2019, 01:47 PM
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#21
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2017 Axis 25.4
State: Arkansas
Posts: 2,669
THOR #12231
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Hey Bob, your playing my Tune (Well one of many of them).
Hence my screeen name.
__________________
2017 Axis / 25.4: Big Foot Levelers, Aims 1200 Watt inverter, Ceramic Window Tint, Full River AGM 6V batteries, Front Hellwig Sway bar / Rear Track Arm, Safe T Plus Steering Stabilizer, PD 4655 converter, Hard Wired Surge Guard, WEboost + WiFi Ranger, LED Headlights/Driving lights, TPMS, Surge tank, Tornado flush, Viair Compressor
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02-14-2019, 01:58 PM
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#22
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: THOR Chateua 35SF
State: Florida
Posts: 5,850
THOR #11130
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Not to derail the thread but...what size portable solar system would you need to power the coach if you were leaving it unattended for a few days with just the residential fridge running off the inverter? Batteries are the two 6V's that came standard with coach. Obviously assuming it was reasonably sunny weather.
__________________
Now an SOB
Traded Thor for Melbourne Prestige 24NP
2018 THOR Chateau 35SF
Two Labs, Bugsie & Blondie
Blondie passed in 2020 at 5 to Leukemia
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02-14-2019, 01:59 PM
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#23
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2017 Axis 25.4
State: Arkansas
Posts: 2,669
THOR #12231
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Back on to the topic here.... So would your rather use the Drill less brackets (but still drill one hole into each of them along with VHB tape) over Z brackets (with 2 holes per bracket)? Or does it really matter?
What looks more pleasing to the eye regardless of how its mounted??
I like the way the look but if Im going to use screws anyway does it really matter?
__________________
2017 Axis / 25.4: Big Foot Levelers, Aims 1200 Watt inverter, Ceramic Window Tint, Full River AGM 6V batteries, Front Hellwig Sway bar / Rear Track Arm, Safe T Plus Steering Stabilizer, PD 4655 converter, Hard Wired Surge Guard, WEboost + WiFi Ranger, LED Headlights/Driving lights, TPMS, Surge tank, Tornado flush, Viair Compressor
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02-14-2019, 02:06 PM
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#24
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: THOR Chateua 35SF
State: Florida
Posts: 5,850
THOR #11130
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I think the point of the product is not having to use screws. Brackets are much heavier than I imagined. If I went that route, I would glue them down and remove panels while traveling (if that's n option). I like it but no screws!!
__________________
Now an SOB
Traded Thor for Melbourne Prestige 24NP
2018 THOR Chateau 35SF
Two Labs, Bugsie & Blondie
Blondie passed in 2020 at 5 to Leukemia
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02-14-2019, 02:11 PM
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#25
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2013 31L
State: Florida
Posts: 2,181
THOR #908
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Mo_Mike
I am going to throw this out, just because my little "voices" are arguing back and forth. We haven't done as much "boondocking" as we are planning on doing, but so far we have tried to find nice shady spots to park to keep the temps down in our VEGAS..
So, then the question in my head becomes, "if I am trying to find a shady parking spot, that probably wont be conclusive to rooftop solar"..
And since solar while driving isn't probably a high priority (since the alternator helps to charge the batteries)do I really want roof top solar, or would building an easy setup portable solar be more useful...
Any input from all you boondockers would be greatly appreciated!
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Yeah, I'm not the "boondocker" that you are directing your question to...but my thoughts...
and my perspective is the occasional weekend RV'er, who does an occasional overnight stop off grid...and on a few trips we've done about 1/2 of the nights off grid (walmart, truck stops, etc..)...and I do an annual trip..well most years....where I'll park at sun n fun for 2-3 night straight without hookups and without driving. I don't have an inverter and have the 2-way propane type fridge
I've been considering solar mainly just to keep batteries topped off in storage...but also to supplement the generator (or alternator) for recharging.
so to your question...
I've found that mostly the driving I do between overnight stops...and the generator running for house AC during the day... is enough to keep it topped up more or less...although as I understand it, it takes many hours to get the battery from nearly full to 100%...and those days when I'm just driving around town (or for example back and forth between the camp site and the visitor center at the grand canyon) might not be enough... especially considering during that time I might also be drawing down the batteries by starting the genny several different times throughout the day.
Disregarding the use for the time in storage....When 'on the go' I figure there are tons of times in a typical day when solar would give me at least some charge. Even when parked in the shade the thing is rarely fully shaded. Also, lots of time sitting in full or partial sun at stop lights where the alternator isn't charging as much...or times when it is also charging the chassis battery. When stopped for a few hours at a museum...or a store... getting gas...grabbing lunch...or wherever.
just some thoughts for brainstorming, not based on verified science....
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02-14-2019, 02:21 PM
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#26
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I Think We're Lost!
Brand: Still Looking
Model: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
State: New York
Posts: 22,195
THOR #8860
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Jamie hit on the crux of the matter. If you were to just use the sealant to hold those brackets down: they're only attached to the TPO roof covering. That is not a solid chunk of the rig.
With your roof: the Z-Brackets that are solidly screwed down; are the solid choice.
( Sorry...)
__________________
"What: me worry?"
Good Sam Member 843599689
Current coach: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
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02-14-2019, 03:26 PM
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#27
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2017 Axis 25.4
State: Arkansas
Posts: 2,669
THOR #12231
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Yeah, I think if you go with rigid you better screw them down to be safe. Unless I find some flexable solar panels I really like (and have a good warrantee / reliability) I think I will go with rigid and screw them down and use plenty of dicor.
Thanks for the input.
__________________
2017 Axis / 25.4: Big Foot Levelers, Aims 1200 Watt inverter, Ceramic Window Tint, Full River AGM 6V batteries, Front Hellwig Sway bar / Rear Track Arm, Safe T Plus Steering Stabilizer, PD 4655 converter, Hard Wired Surge Guard, WEboost + WiFi Ranger, LED Headlights/Driving lights, TPMS, Surge tank, Tornado flush, Viair Compressor
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02-14-2019, 03:44 PM
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#28
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I Think We're Lost!
Brand: Still Looking
Model: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
State: New York
Posts: 22,195
THOR #8860
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__________________
"What: me worry?"
Good Sam Member 843599689
Current coach: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
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02-24-2019, 03:28 AM
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#29
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Axis 24.1
State: California
Posts: 135
THOR #3552
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I installed 150 watts of solar on my Axis 2 years ago - so far no problems.
I have 2 rigid panels. I used z-brackets, drilled and used rubber well nuts to secure the panels. Also used copious amounts of lap sealant. Ran the wire down the fridge vent (easy).
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02-24-2019, 05:04 AM
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#30
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: '17-Vegas 24.1
State: California
Posts: 2,222
THOR #13362
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cosmo
I installed 150 watts of solar on my Axis 2 years ago - so far no problems.
I have 2 rigid panels. I used z-brackets, drilled and used rubber well nuts to secure the panels. Also used copious amounts of lap sealant. Ran the wire down the fridge vent (easy).
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On 24.1, and drilling into the roof...
how did you know how to avoid the air conditioning channels in the roof?
__________________
'17 Vegas 24.1
Fallbrook, CA
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02-24-2019, 07:44 AM
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#31
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Axis 24.1
State: California
Posts: 135
THOR #3552
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Quote:
On 24.1, and drilling into the roof...
how did you know how to avoid the air conditioning channels in the roof?
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I did drill though the corner of one channel, it did not seem like a big deal. One reason I used the well nuts is because the roof plywood is not all that thick and I didn't think the screw threads had much to bite into. Also the well nuts are kinda self sealing. I can post a picture of my panel placement if that helps anyone.
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02-26-2019, 01:39 AM
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#32
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Junior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Tuscanyxte
State: Virginia
Posts: 12
THOR #11461
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Radical mounting solar panels
Took a lot of "engineering", but I managed to put my 2 rigid solar panels out of the way of all roof shadows by mounting them on two metal poles running between the two air conditioners. I replaced all 8 a/c shroud bolts with bolts long enough to go through the 2" pipes and into the a/c frame. Added a support block in the middle "just 'cuz". Also added some heavy duty zip ties as back-up in case of primary attachment failure. Installed June 2017 with Morningstar 45 amp mmpt controller for possible future expansion. All continues to work well. Based on usage thus far I estimate needing 2 more panels to cover the house size refer, microwave, lights etc. Not a project for the novice, but I did avoid putting holes in the roof!
Larry
PS unsuccessful attempt to post picture
__________________
2014 Tuscany xte 40EX
2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee with ecodiesel engine
2018 Selling house & going full-time!
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02-26-2019, 06:26 AM
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#33
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: '17-Vegas 24.1
State: California
Posts: 2,222
THOR #13362
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cosmo
I installed 150 watts of solar on my Axis 2 years ago - so far no problems.
I have 2 rigid panels. I used z-brackets, drilled and used rubber well nuts to secure the panels. Also used copious amounts of lap sealant. Ran the wire down the fridge vent (easy).
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Thinking abt going with this flex panel -200 watts
Measures 42” x 31”
Has good reviews
200 watt flex panel - $189
Then pair it with a $79 30amp MPPT charge controller
So...200 watts + MPPT for under $270
__________________
'17 Vegas 24.1
Fallbrook, CA
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03-06-2019, 06:48 PM
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#34
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: Axis 25.4
State: California
Posts: 784
THOR #6582
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Logcabiny
Took a lot of "engineering", ...snip.. Not a project for the novice, but I did avoid putting holes in the roof!
Larry
PS unsuccessful attempt to post picture
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Try again on the photos, I'd really like to see your install.
__________________
I'm wearing trifocals now but my hindsight is 20/20.
*************
Bilsteins and Sumos front and rear...HUGE! FatMat and Hoodliner...HUGE!
Hellwig sway bars F&R, 235/85 Hankook ATM, alignment...HUGE!!!
Battery watering, 260watts Solar and BigFeets to make life easier.
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03-06-2019, 07:11 PM
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#35
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I Think We're Lost!
Brand: Still Looking
Model: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
State: New York
Posts: 22,195
THOR #8860
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Logcabiny
Took a lot of "engineering", but I managed to put my 2 rigid solar panels out of the way of all roof shadows by mounting them on two metal poles running between the two air conditioners. I replaced all 8 a/c shroud bolts with bolts long enough to go through the 2" pipes and into the a/c frame. Added a support block in the middle "just 'cuz". Also added some heavy duty zip ties as back-up in case of primary attachment failure. Installed June 2017 with Morningstar 45 amp mmpt controller for possible future expansion. All continues to work well. Based on usage thus far I estimate needing 2 more panels to cover the house size refer, microwave, lights etc. Not a project for the novice, but I did avoid putting holes in the roof!
Larry
PS unsuccessful attempt to post picture
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Congratulations!
When you get the "Picture Thing" working: they'll be greatly appreciated...
__________________
"What: me worry?"
Good Sam Member 843599689
Current coach: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
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03-06-2019, 07:31 PM
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#36
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2017 Axis 25.4
State: Arkansas
Posts: 2,669
THOR #12231
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Quote:
Originally Posted by taylorbob1
Thinking abt going with this flex panel -200 watts
Measures 42” x 31”
Has good reviews
200 watt flex panel - $189
Then pair it with a $79 30amp MPPT charge controller
So...200 watts + MPPT for under $270
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Yeah I was thinking about flexable panels as well.... but the majorty of panel problems (from my research) was with the flexable ones. They just dont hold up very well over time.
Most had problems within a year or two and from my research ....dont expect more than 5 years life out of them.
Whereas the rigid have a 25+ year life and less problems in the first 5 years. Also it Looks like the name brands have better reviews (but cost a little more).
But that link you show looks like an excellent value and good reviews.....
It sure would be nice to just tape down the panels and move on. I been struggling with this decision for months now.....I guess I just need to pull the trigger on something and not look back?
__________________
2017 Axis / 25.4: Big Foot Levelers, Aims 1200 Watt inverter, Ceramic Window Tint, Full River AGM 6V batteries, Front Hellwig Sway bar / Rear Track Arm, Safe T Plus Steering Stabilizer, PD 4655 converter, Hard Wired Surge Guard, WEboost + WiFi Ranger, LED Headlights/Driving lights, TPMS, Surge tank, Tornado flush, Viair Compressor
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04-25-2019, 02:18 AM
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#37
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2013 31L
State: Florida
Posts: 2,181
THOR #908
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cosmo
I installed 150 watts of solar on my Axis 2 years ago - so far no problems.
I have 2 rigid panels. I used z-brackets, drilled and used rubber well nuts to secure the panels. Also used copious amounts of lap sealant. Ran the wire down the fridge vent (easy).
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why well nuts instead of screws?
sorry, I should have read the whole thread first, I saw your answer to this question...
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04-25-2019, 11:05 AM
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#38
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I Think We're Lost!
Brand: Still Looking
Model: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
State: New York
Posts: 22,195
THOR #8860
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Back to the non-drill mounts for a moment...
If you've got a fiberglass roof (No membrane): they would sure seem like a good choice.
__________________
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04-25-2019, 12:07 PM
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#39
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Senior Member
Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: 2017 Axis 25.4
State: Arkansas
Posts: 2,669
THOR #12231
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bob Denman
Back to the non-drill mounts for a moment...
If you've got a fiberglass roof (No membrane): they would sure seem like a good choice.
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Exactly, or an aluminum roof like I see on some trailers.
I have not pulled the trigger yet (installing solar system) but I hope to sometime this springs. I will update you all on my progress.
I see that some of the solar panels and solar contollers I was looking at both had a price drops.
__________________
2017 Axis / 25.4: Big Foot Levelers, Aims 1200 Watt inverter, Ceramic Window Tint, Full River AGM 6V batteries, Front Hellwig Sway bar / Rear Track Arm, Safe T Plus Steering Stabilizer, PD 4655 converter, Hard Wired Surge Guard, WEboost + WiFi Ranger, LED Headlights/Driving lights, TPMS, Surge tank, Tornado flush, Viair Compressor
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04-25-2019, 12:32 PM
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#40
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I Think We're Lost!
Brand: Still Looking
Model: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
State: New York
Posts: 22,195
THOR #8860
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The fun is in the shopping: isn't it?
Let us know how the process goes!
__________________
"What: me worry?"
Good Sam Member 843599689
Current coach: Tiffin Wayfarer 24 BW
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