One last solar panel question.....

Ah, I just used tight fitting gromets. I'll try & find a picture

 

I'm sure on the metal roof that'll be fine.
After all, the poptop roof protect it from the elements.

Any idea on the thickness of the roof(s)?!!

 

Correct. That's what I figured! The metal roof is only thin, I dunno around or slightly less than a mm maybe?

So, the panels are wired in parallel giving 180 watts/12v. They are connected using MC4 branch connectors which take + & - from each of the panels & output one + & one - cable down to the battery terminals.
The branch connectors are up under the roof & the holes through the roof into the passenger compartment are effectively above the LB.

I didn't really want cables running down the vents as they could be an additional & more focussed source of water onto the terminals but TBH if the cables are kinked upwards before connecting to the terminals there won't be a problem if you do go in through the vents like @Zebedee has . Just personal preference.

Panels riveted on with large grommets...


MC4 branch connectors connecting the 4 wires in to two out...(I coded the black wires with red & earth tape so Mr Stupid here couldn't get them wrong)


In through the roof...this is an embarrassing picture, I've since removed the hastily installed grommets & sealed the paint work properly


So, I didn't really over-think it @AndyC , & in the last 3 years we've not had a leak or issue with the instal.
Oh & done loads & loads of off grid camping (over 100 nights not on campsite electric with the OG Westy fridge, propex & all the other gumpf we run off DC)

 

Perfect. Just the photos I needed. thanks

 

Got some little rubber grommets.

Just need the Sikaflex adhesive now.

And some warm weather to fit it all!

 

Any suggestions on cable to use from MPPT controller to the battery?

Despite buying a kit, it didn't come with this cable!

Or can I use some of the cable that goes from panel to MPPT?

 

You just need cable that can handle the amps your MPPT puts out so if you bought a 20A one then normal automotive cable of that rating is fine.

 

Perfect.

So I have a 10a MPPT, so 17a is more than enough.

 

Yep sound advice from @Bertiebot or alternatively simply use 2 lengths of the same 4mm cable that connects the controller to the panels. That'll keep it nice & simple and you know that way you can never exceed the cable rating

 

Fiiiiinally getting round to fitting this!

Wired in controller end of things at weekend.

Just plugged in solar panel to test all ok

Getting these readings. Seem ok for a cloudy day?

 

Have you read the manual?

What's the light bulb + & -?

 

It's for a power supply directly from the panels. Indicated by the little light bulb on the display in the controller.

 

Manual doesn't specify what a good reading should be.

Light + - is for a direct 12v feed out of the controller.

 

Wish my roof was like that or atleast flat, I had a look at the rigid frame panels but mounting on my Devon roof I think the wind would get under it and lift it up!!
Problem is raised sections running the length of the roof.

 

Exactly that! The manuals often call it an output for a load using a light as an example. I've wired our load outputs to a rear mounted 12v accessory socket that makes it just a little easier to use the compressor on the rear tyres and to run the shower

 

I've got raised sections running across my roof and the sikaflex does a good job of keeping the panels where I put them, (so far). I have noticed a little bit of wind drumming from them at about 85 mph but it settles down again once I go past 90.

 

Loads of different water proof glands here if you don't want to rely on just a grommet.
http://www.force4.co.uk/department/electrical/electrical-accessories.html

 

Andy, do us a favour, can you take a zoomed out photo of the controller. I would love to fit solar, but I'm running out of space to fit more gadgets. Just wanted to view the controller in scale.

 

Will do.

I'd say it's about the size of..... A5 bit of paper maybe?

I have it fitted to the rear of the Westy cupboard.

Will get a photo later.