Forum Discussion

auctioneer's avatar
auctioneer
Explorer
Oct 04, 2016

Solar Battery Charger

I've recently aquired a 2005 Newmar Scottsdale gasser and have run across a few opportunities that have me stumped. It has a small (about a foot square) solar panel on the roof that I think is a trickle charger for either the coach or house batteries. I can find nothing in the literature that came with it about this panel, and am trying to determine how to tell if it's working? Anyone with any experience with this solar set-up might be able to help me out.
Class A

6 Replies

  • STBRetired's avatar
    STBRetired
    Explorer
    Oct 05, 2016
    Look for a round plastic plug that looks like it is stuck into a cigarette lighter socket with a red LED in the center. That is the indicator for the 5 watt solar panel on the roof. Is only good for keeping the battery trickle charged while in storage. Is pretty much just a gimmick that Newmar puts on their rigs. Doesn't do much at all. 5 watts is next to nothing.
  • Trackrig's avatar
    Trackrig
    Explorer II
    Oct 05, 2016
    On my 2005 Fleetwood Excursion 39S DP, when there is sufficient sun light to produce a (very small) charge, there will be a small red light shining on the front A/C grill inside of the MH. Our solar panel is mounted on top of the A/C.

    No, this doesn't mean the power is getting to the batteries, though I assume it is, but just that the panel is generating power. The power generated is about enough to offset the CO2 and propane detectors if you're lucky.

    Bill
  • bobpie's avatar
    bobpie
    Explorer
    Oct 05, 2016
    when I had a problem with my starter I had to disconnect wiring and I found that I had to cover the panel on the roof to stop the current from to panel to energize my starter wires. If this makes any sense.
  • bobpie's avatar
    bobpie
    Explorer
    Oct 05, 2016
    My solar panel charges my engine battery but I also have a battery tender which charges all my coach batterys also in connection.
  • GordonThree's avatar
    GordonThree
    Explorer
    Oct 04, 2016
    Maybe for a small vent fan somewhere. 12 inch solar would only be 4-5 watts, not enough to charge any big batteries.

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