Securing Solar Panels

[allen8106]

Hey gang, need your inputs. I recently finished the installation of four solar panels on the roof of my 5er. I have 6 aluminum L brackets holding 4 panels framed in 1 1/2 inch aluminum angle. The distance between the aluminum angle and the roof is minimal so it makes inserting a bolt and nut difficult and time consuming. I am considering using these hitch pins like the one in the pic below.

Thoughts?

https://www.zoro.com/fabory-safety-pin-2-wire-snap-u396830310137/i/G1745606/

[dons2346]

Nut and bolt

[allen8106]

DrewE wrote:
The main consideration I can see that might be tricky is that the hitch pins provide no support along the length of the fastener, while a bolt and a nut do. That may allow the panels to wiggle sideways more than you want.

My thoughts too.

[memtb]

allen, Though a little “after the fact, go back a bit on Do It Yourself Mods/Upgrades (solar panel upgrade) and see my recent post on solar panel installation...it may give you some options that you may consider.

[DrewE]

Is this going between a bracket mounted on the roof and one on the panel, in lieu of a through bolt?

The main consideration I can see that might be tricky is that the hitch pins provide no support along the length of the fastener, while a bolt and a nut do. That may allow the panels to wiggle sideways more than you want.

I'd probably use a cross-drilled stud and a spring cotter pin rather than these, but that's more a personal preference than anything. It may also be possible to attach a captive nut of some sort (welded on or whatever) to one of the brackets so you only have to thread a bolt in from the "easy" side, if there is one.