Forum Discussion

mena661's avatar
mena661
Explorer
Aug 19, 2013

Portable Solar

With all this talk of portable setups. It's got me thinking of one too. Here's the panels I'm interested in: Two 140W 12V panels. I saw where someone hinged a couple of panels together and put a handle on them. I might do a carry strap instead. So I don't have to take it down and put it up every day, maybe I can secure it to the top of the ladder. Not sure how to go about that. I can get a better picture tomorrow if needed.

  • I would purchase 4 of the 75 watt panels (Solar Blvd. 75 watt) from the same company that the OP links to. They weigh 15 lbs. each and would be much easier to handle.

    I have 2 panels mounted to the side of my coach, one is 125 watts and the other is 80 watts. The larger one is a bit difficult to get hooked back up to the side. The smaller one weighs about 15 lbs. and is no problem.
  • I find a 100 watt panel is the max weight I care to lift in and out of storage.
    For storage in a MH works great by building a slide in rack in just the top of one compartment. That compartment is still fully usable for storage after the panels are slid into grooves in the rack. I used a 4 ft 2x6 on each side w/ two 1 1/2" grooves in each one, and hung from the top
  • Hi mena,

    Use loose pin hinges. That way you need only lift 30 lbs (which is still more than enough in something that can catch the wind).
  • Almot's avatar
    Almot
    Explorer III
    60 lbs is a lot to lift and carry. Especially in large size.
  • Did you see RJsfishin's receiver mount for his modules? I don't remember in which thread it was pictured but I thought it was a pretty elegant way of mounting.

    Lifting two 30 lb modules that are joined by hinges to any appreciable height would not be a task I would like to do on a regular basis. I would rather have an easel on the ground or even one of BFL's turntables to use for securing them in position. Actually, I wouldn't want to do either, if I could park in half way decent sun. Roof mounting is a one-time shot and keeps the modules out of harm's way.

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,189 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 21, 2025