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Old 12-29-2016, 02:57 AM   #1
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Brand: Thor Motor Coach
Model: RS26 Quantum
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Solar panel mounting?

Hello. I what to mount two 165 watt solar panels on my Quantum RS26 roof. Question, what is the best way to do this. I mean, what is the best way to secure them? Just screws or with “well nuts”. Of course I will also use "Dicor" to seal the mounts. Also I would like to be able to raise the panels for the best sun. Any suggestions on those mounts?
Thanks for everyone’s help in advance.
Phil

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Old 12-29-2016, 08:42 PM   #2
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Question

Any one have any ideas?
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Old 12-29-2016, 09:01 PM   #3
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When I built my solar system, I bought all my parts from RV Solar in AZ. They have the mounting brackets you are in need of. Plus if you want to raise the panels for better sun angle you will need a special bracket for that, and the adjustable supports. The brackets used to allow tilting, give more more clearance for the panel when you raise one side.

RV Solar Electric Store
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Old 12-30-2016, 04:29 AM   #4
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Thanks for the info. I will check them out. What hardware did you use to mount them to the roof?
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Old 12-30-2016, 01:39 PM   #5
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I installed our Renogy solar kit with four 100W panels on the roof using the supplied brackets (Z brackets, in 2 parts) screws, and Dicor. The panels have held up very nicely and are still solidly attached.
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Old 12-30-2016, 02:54 PM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Becauseican View Post
Hello. I what to mount two 165 watt solar panels on my Quantum RS26 roof. Question, what is the best way to do this. I mean, what is the best way to secure them? Just screws or with “well nuts”. Of course I will also use "Dicor" to seal the mounts. Also I would like to be able to raise the panels for the best sun. Any suggestions on those mounts?
Thanks for everyone’s help in advance.
Phil
I have not purchased from this company yet....but have done a bunch of research and will order from them this spring:

SF160 Solar Panel with Accessories

I have contacted them and discussed our options so they've started a "file" on my wishes. Everyone that has purchased from them is very satisfied and say they're very knowledgable and have great service after the sale.
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Old 12-31-2016, 04:28 AM   #7
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I used uni-strut for the panels and mounted extra batteries under mh
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Old 12-31-2016, 05:54 AM   #8
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Thanks to all. I was wondering what you all used to screw or bolt the mounts to the roof with (I know they should be stainless, but not sure about size and length)? I have a TPO roof so can't use high strength tape. I emailed Thor and ask them about thickness and runner distance but haven’t heard back yet. I got 135 watt panels that are 59’x 27’. Want to make sure they are secure. I do plan to use a tilt system.
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Old 01-04-2017, 06:41 PM   #9
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I got some drawings from Thor. you could also use a metal detector to pinpoint the frame better
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Old 01-04-2017, 08:25 PM   #10
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Originally Posted by Becauseican View Post
Thanks to all. I was wondering what you all used to screw or bolt the mounts to the roof with (I know they should be stainless, but not sure about size and length)? I have a TPO roof so can't use high strength tape. I emailed Thor and ask them about thickness and runner distance but haven’t heard back yet. I got 135 watt panels that are 59’x 27’. Want to make sure they are secure. I do plan to use a tilt system.
When I emailed them, they said call tech support.
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Old 01-04-2017, 09:02 PM   #11
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Many years ago I was very active on the Casita Owners Forum. There was an individual there who installed solar panels on the roof of his Casita using Very High Bond (VHB) tape like used on aircraft. He reported n problems with the mounts staying stuck to the roof using the VHB. Here is a link to the discussion of that installation with lots of pictures.

Solar install with VHB tape - The Casita Club Forum - The Casita Club Forums
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Old 01-05-2017, 08:53 PM   #12
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I used well-nuts, they make a waterproof seal by themselves. I also put a strip under each bracket of Etherbond (not sure of spelling) so the bracket after tightened up against the additional roof material instead of the rubber roof directly. I then used leveling caulking to finish it up. I did drill a hole through my roof and used the through the roof bracket from Go Power. I have six panels spread out. I then used a TriMetric solar charger along with their battery tender. All this goes to 4 6v batteries wired in series, oh, the panels are wired all in parallel, that way I would have a better chance of having a charging ability around trees, etc.
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