Portable solar mounts

westend wrote:
Yes, all of the frame connections are with the same size clevis pins, 1/4". As I mentioned above, if using an earth based module orientation instead of a roof mount, I'd use a threaded fastener instead of a pin so I could lock up the strut to the frame.

Something like this.

OK, got it. Thanks. Good stuff!

Yes, all of the frame connections are with the same size clevis pins, 1/4". As I mentioned above, if using an earth based module orientation instead of a roof mount, I'd use a threaded fastener instead of a pin so I could lock up the strut to the frame.

Something like this.

westend wrote:
I'll put some pictures up of my DIY solar module mount I made for the roof of my TT. It actually tilts fourways. I would suggest that anyone wanting a mount with tilt to only make it two way tilt. The use of the other two directions isn't (or hasn't yet) been worth the effort. Anyway, it is all built from new aluminum stock so may give you some ideas about fabrication.

On the workbench in the garage with module faced down:


End view detail of tilt struts stored inside frame:

Westend, did you use clevis pins at the bottom where the rod runs from the top of the panel angled to the ground?
Detail of tilt strut pinned into frame with 1/4" pin:


Module at tilt from behind:


Full frontal view of tilt:


If your objective is to use the modules as portables, I would suggest to beef up the frame where your tilt strut attaches and use a good threaded fastener with a handle so the struts can be locked into position. Short of making a base and securing the base down to endure severe wind, a couple of struts/module is about all you need.

Did you use clevis pins on the bar that runs from the top of the panel angled down? Nice work btw.

Thanks fellas, some good ideas.

I just set mine on the ground and prop them up with a rod. They do blow over occasionally so I make sure there is nothing around that they will fall on, such as a rock.

I'll put some pictures up of my DIY solar module mount I made for the roof of my TT. It actually tilts fourways. I would suggest that anyone wanting a mount with tilt to only make it two way tilt. The use of the other two directions isn't (or hasn't yet) been worth the effort. Anyway, it is all built from new aluminum stock so may give you some ideas about fabrication.

On the workbench in the garage with module faced down:


End view detail of tilt struts stored inside frame:


Detail of tilt strut pinned into frame with 1/4" pin:


Module at tilt from behind:


Full frontal view of tilt:


If your objective is to use the modules as portables, I would suggest to beef up the frame where your tilt strut attaches and use a good threaded fastener with a handle so the struts can be locked into position. Short of making a base and securing the base down to endure severe wind, a couple of struts/module is about all you need.

I am going to use some of the light weight aluminum UNISTRUT pieces.

I will run the UNISTRUT across the trailer and mount into the roof side. I did not want to drill holes in my roof. This continuous unistrut section slot will allow me to slide the panels along the unistrut as I need to to...


This is a close up of the aluminum UNISTRUT section


My install is going to on the roof of my OFF-ROAD POPUP trailer where the added weight of the panels may require me to mount the panels after I raise the roof and lock them in place.

This may be a big over kill for what you are wanting to do...

Roy Ken

`It's probably a bit low brow but I use a couple of pine slates and a pair of C-clamps per panel.