mounting solar panels on roof of ute
Submitted: Sunday, Mar 01, 2009 at 00:35
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dusty rover
Hi
I have a 79 series Landcrusier Ute with a Carry me camper on the back. I've just brought two 90 watt sun power solar panels with the intent that I would mount them on the roof of the ute. I had planned to have them fold shut (glass side together) while travelling and then be able to open them when stopped and be able to remove them if I need to chase the sun. The idea in have the glass sides together was to prevent stone damage. This all sounded good until I unpacked the panel and found that the instructions state "Modules should not be mounted such that the glass faces downward ", due to water possible entering the vapour breather. Both panels joined together measure 1060mm x 1040mm. how prone are these panels to stone damage etc and does anyone have ideas on how to mount these on the roof but still be able to remove them when set up for extended periods?
Thanks
Chris
Reply By: Member - Jeff H (QLD) - Sunday, Mar 01, 2009 at 02:48
Sunday, Mar 01, 2009 at 02:48
Hello Chris,
Sounds odd about the water possibly breaching the vapour breather, but I know nothing of that, so can't comment. More power to the manufacturer to point it out. (Mate, to read the "User Handbook" of my Lady's Mazda, I may as
well strap on a gelly belt before I go fishing....ahem.)
Mate we have a 123W panel mounted on our baby Rodeo spacecab. Sorry I can't chuck you an image, but it's simple as
all getout.
Essentially, I ran two Al box-section bearers (underslung)from a roof rack to the top frame on the tray. The rest of the housing is Al, except for ss spacers to minimise vibrations. One side is hinged so the panel can be slipped out.
I did worry that body twist might bleep the panel, but it has survived all but a roll-over, (and I lack enthusiasm for that particular experiment).
Chris, stone damage should not be a consideration.
If you could use more encouragement, feel free.
Jeff.
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