Suitcase Solar
Submitted: Monday, Nov 14, 2005 at 19:39
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Member - John (QLD)
Howdy all,
Want to buy a portable solar setup and like the idea of these foldable ones - easy to store in car or camper.
foldable solar
Have seen bigger 160w panels or 2x80w but where do you put them. Wanted something compact or am I wastng my time with these foldable ones in regards to capacity.
Will use for longer stays and basically to save on the genny etc. Use an 110amp AGM and a 100amp flooded, a 60l Evakool in car and camper runs
water pump and lights.
I think they're the Russian panels. Anyone got one or any experinces with this type or have seen something better.
Cheers
John
Reply By: WheelTravel - Monday, Nov 14, 2005 at 21:15
Monday, Nov 14, 2005 at 21:15
Ay Mate...
I used a similar setup for my trip round oz... I got 60w 2 Kyocera panels from Tasmna Energy(excellent service), and just pop-riveted some hinges in...
Much cheaper than the ready made...
My thoughts on the idea were mixed...
get as long a lead as possible...i.e 10metres so you can suntrack without too muich difficulty. Easier than moving the car... BUT, it can be a hassle getting them in and out all the time so a permanent fix to the car can be better.
I went for the portable coz I go on a lot of narrow tracks and branches etc. would have scratched and or broken them...
Having finished my trip I may be open to selling them... let me know if your int.
Hope this helps
AnswerID:
139393
Follow Up By: Pterosaur - Monday, Nov 14, 2005 at 22:48
Monday, Nov 14, 2005 at 22:48
G'day WheelTravel,
If you're interested in selling your panels, maybe we can deal ?
regards
Terry
FollowupID:
393114
Follow Up By: Member - John (QLD) - Tuesday, Nov 15, 2005 at 08:32
Tuesday, Nov 15, 2005 at 08:32
Thks WheelTravel,
Where are you located?
my email is clarkjnk@yahoo.com.au
John
FollowupID:
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Reply By: Moggs - Monday, Nov 14, 2005 at 23:12
Monday, Nov 14, 2005 at 23:12
Hi John,
I have one of these 80w units:
Suntech STA080
I am extremely happy with it - replaced the 6mtr cable with a 10 mtr cable and anderson plug to charge the 100ah Remco AGM in the Pathy. The panel is robust and comes in a good quality canvas padded bag. I just slip it in with the touring tent when travelling. Although it is advertised at $880 ex GST you can get them for a little over $750 incl GST.
BTW, not going to get into a debate over cost / size / quality / batteries etc. The setup we have works
well for us - thats why I am happy to recommend it!
AnswerID:
139420
Follow Up By: Member - John (QLD) - Tuesday, Nov 15, 2005 at 08:37
Tuesday, Nov 15, 2005 at 08:37
Cheers Moggs
One question - being happy with it - do you run a fridge off the AGM in the car and if so what size?
Thks
John
FollowupID:
393144
Follow Up By: Moggs - Tuesday, Nov 15, 2005 at 09:34
Tuesday, Nov 15, 2005 at 09:34
Yep, run a Waeco CF50 from the 100AH AGM along with 2 versalites. It is charged in vehicle via a Redarc and by solar at
camp. I also carry a Waeco 48ah Thumper as a back up. I have the Redarc set up so I can parallel the AGM with the cranking battery via a momentary switch near the rear vision mirror (in case I drain the cranking battery when winching). All in all the set up works
well for me and I never worry about power now.
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