consumeratlarge wrote:
westend wrote:
So, if you use those plastic mounts, you have 24 screws to remove to remove the module? I would suggest to use four pieces of aluminum angle and four pieces for the module, use a single pin in each mount. If you want to remove the module, just pull the pins.
What I found with my single module is that I don't even want to get up there on the roof to change the tilt angle (easy to do), much less remove it for any reason.
Yes, that's true. I have a very cool cordless driver that would do it quickly. And I like the quick release idea for tilting the panels. But I went ahead and figured I wasn't going to really do that, so I went this way for 2 reasons:
1. Bigger footprint, spreading the load on the roof. I'm just not experienced enough with putting massive things on thin plywood to feel good about the mounts that I would use in a static install.
2. I don't exactly what would make me want to remove the panel, but maybe getting to the junction box on the back, cleaning debris, inspecting the roof, I don't know. But, I know that if I glued it down to the roof, for instance, I would then, without a doubt, have to move it.
Like you, I don't want to go on the roof to mess with the panels. Although, there is something measurably gained by cleaning the panels of dust, I've found.
Sorry to have come down a bit harsh on the plastic mounts, they may be just the ticket for some folks. I get somewhat wound up with my DIY metal working sometimes and can't see the reason to do it any other way.
I see where most guys figure out quickly that, if attaching a module using the factory made holes, it is darn near impossible to remove the module from the mounts because of the fastener locations. The plastic mounts, or alternatively, using an additional aluminum angle overcomes that issue.
FWIW, in my own installation, I used an aluminum "U" channel to attach to the RV's roof. This spreads the attachment torque out to the length of the channel. I did it that way because I have a large module and a 4-way tilting mechanism. I probably have an additional 20 lbs. of aluminum along with the module's weight. The three "U" channels are fastened into the rafters through Eternabond tape which seals the fastener as it is turned. Additionally, I put a bead of sealant from the channels to the roof. I've had the module tilted while in storage for two years and it has not loosened at all.
All said, your plastic mounts may give the same service for a module just laying flat on a roof.
