Hemi Joel wrote:
Protruding through the roof is a 2 prong connector that does not match the connectors on the solar panels. (see picture below) So I figure I need to buy a pigtail that plugs into the camper, and cut off the connectors from the panels and solder them to the new pigtail.
I'm sure I'm not the first guy to do this.
From your last question to first:
2) It could be that you will be exactly the first to do this (on this forum). This 2-prong plug is a poor solution for outdoor. DIY solar installs rarely, if ever, use it. I don't see how the thing shown in your photo can provide waterproof contact on the roof.
1) I think you should do the opposite - buy connector that is matching your solar panel pigtail - chances are it will be MC4 type - and then cut off the this pre-wired 2-prong thingy and replace it with MC4. If you remove that big ugly cover with 4 screws (probably #10 tapping screws, not even stainless), you should be able to pull the wire out enough to work on it. And then seal it again - with an old cover or without it. I would try and find some other cover - with horizontally facing hole (if my verbal explanations make sense).
I never tried, but I hear all the time that MC4 connectors can be crimped on. Or - solder it if you like.
Another solution would be to put a waterproof plastic junction box from Hope Depot onto this spot (after removing that old cover). And then - do whatever you like inside the box, with MC4 or terminals, or buss bars or whatever. There were many installs implementing that $5 waterproof box, people will be happy to post photos.
Sorry for being cranky. It's just that it seems to me that you're about to do something that nobody normally does. Pre-wired solar job is something that manufacturers still have to learn, IMO.
