Forum Discussion
CA_Traveler
Aug 26, 2015Explorer III
For virtually all RVs the savings for more efficient aerodynamics don't add up due to limited annual mileage vs trucks which can have very high annual mileage.
And if you do a lot of driving how will angled panels hold up at 60-70 MPH plus head wind? Flat mounted is not a problem, but how often do commercial/home solar installations see sustained high wind?
Losing trailer solar and batteries every time you leave with the truck sounds like a big disadvantage. Suggest you design your system so that it could go on either the TT or the truck. Then a simple flat mount on the truck (with future tilting etc. capability) and see how that works out first with a viable backup plan for TT mounting.
Driving just the truck means lowering tilted panels and disconnecting power and I'll bet that gets old fast or it would for me. Plus you are now driving the truck with all of that extra weight - how does that effect MPG? How much will you drive just the truck? Our toad has the same driven miles as towed miles as a possible guide.
And if you do a lot of driving how will angled panels hold up at 60-70 MPH plus head wind? Flat mounted is not a problem, but how often do commercial/home solar installations see sustained high wind?
Losing trailer solar and batteries every time you leave with the truck sounds like a big disadvantage. Suggest you design your system so that it could go on either the TT or the truck. Then a simple flat mount on the truck (with future tilting etc. capability) and see how that works out first with a viable backup plan for TT mounting.
Driving just the truck means lowering tilted panels and disconnecting power and I'll bet that gets old fast or it would for me. Plus you are now driving the truck with all of that extra weight - how does that effect MPG? How much will you drive just the truck? Our toad has the same driven miles as towed miles as a possible guide.
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