Ive read through quite a few threads on Solar panel set up and have a few questions. I plan to use either a flexible 160W panel (although from what Ive read, rigid should be fine too) mounted on Majors roof connected to: Votronic Remote Meter https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Remote-m...controllers-/142452487092?hash=item212ad473b4 and a Votronic 250W Dual Battery MPPT Controller https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/High-eff...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649 Is that brand a good one? The meter I plan to mount on the back of the Westy wardrobe unit, out of the way but where would the MPPT Controller be situated? Do I need a Splitcharge Relay? Would it be wise to pop inline fuses between the controller and main & leisure batteries, Im thinking so for a bit of safety. Andy_H_VW has a good, descriptive thread and uses the Votronic components. Cabling and connectors, I'll list those another day as they are self explanatory. Any hints / tips and advice greatly received.
The installation instructions should include fusing recommendations. But essentially from solar cell onwards in the circuit theres enough energy to start a fire and make wiring hot. Solar cells are basically current limited : 160W is 8 amps so heavy enough wire will protect from problems. But a fuse will be required at on the feed to the battery which protects from the controller failing short circuit across the battery. I also have an isolating switch on the solar cell input to my controller so I can work on it on a sunny day without risking damaging things even with battery disconnected. Note also that some dual battery chargers have a strong output to the leisure battery and a weaker trickle charge to the starter : this could be an issue if e.g. the stereo is connected to the starter battery.
@mikedjames Thanks for the information, much appreciated! Cable size noted and I will source it to suit the amperage, the Meter comes with cable, I assume will be man enough. An isolating switch makes sense. We do have a stereo connected to the main battery but wouldn't be used when parked up. The only things which would be used are some low wattage LED lights.
