Strength of Roof and Solar Install question

Newbiecampers wrote:
Any thoughts or real-world experiences with that thin of a roof along with a solar panel set-up?

I have a Chevy based Coachmen Freelander and helped a friend who also has a Freelander mount solar panels on his rig.

Using 1" X 1" angle iron, we welded up a framework in which the side-to-side rails overhung the width of the RV and turned down. After power coating white, the rails were bolted through the sidewalls into the studs.

All of the framework and solar panels are rearward of the awning.

The electrical wiring was run down the outside backwall (by the ladder) in a wire moulding and forward under the RV. The wiring was then brought up into the RV through the floor.

The frame was 1" above the roof (NO weight on the roof) and there were NO roof penetrations, so no leaks.

The electrical panel was mounted in the storage area under the bed near the water tank.

4 years later, it still works well. For occasional cleaning, he climbs the ladder with a Swiffer in hand.

If doing it again, we would design the framework so that it would tilt to track the sun.

Tim