Forum Discussion

mjohns1's avatar
mjohns1
Explorer
May 08, 2013

solar panels

i have been looking to install solar on my 1996 gulf-stream and understand how to install them, but i cant find any awnswers about what to do with the engine system/altenator that charges while driving the RV? do i abandon that charging system and only go with the solar panels or use both? if anyone has a diagram i would really apreciate it. thanks
Class C
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    May 10, 2013
    Hi,

    Or if the Rogue 3024 is available it is cheaper and better than the Blue Sky.
  • hrgermany's avatar
    hrgermany
    Explorer
    May 10, 2013
    make sure you get a good Solar charge controller.Check with Blue Sky
    Energy.Nice people to deal (1-800 493 7877)
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    May 08, 2013
    Leave all existing systems in place and operational.
    Just connect the solar controller direct to the house battery.
    Go enjoy some off grid camping.
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    May 08, 2013
    Hi,

    Once my solar system and alternator have the house batteries fully changed the solar panels actually send energy to the chassis. I have solenoids in my alternator charging paths.

    Solar and alternator play well together for charging.
  • EsoxLucius's avatar
    EsoxLucius
    Explorer
    May 08, 2013
    There are transfer switching mechanisms which will defer charging to a given component of the system based on predetermined priority.
  • psa0298's avatar
    psa0298
    Explorer
    May 08, 2013
    Don't worry about it, leave the chasis charging system as it is. The solar charge controller will sense the higher voltage and shut off the current from the solar panels. The solar panels will ony charge the batteries when the charge controller senses the battery voltage is low.

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