22x47 solar panels on intervec falcon roof

[tev123]

Anyone installed solar panels on the roof of their intervec falcon?

I am looking to install one 100w 47"x21.3" panel, with option to add one more later.
I am debating whether to install behind the AC unit, sideways, or in front of the AC unit.

If I install behind the AC unit:
pros:
- minimal wind drag when driving as it sits behind the AC unit

cons:
- takes up some space on the rear roof where I could otherwise go up and sit to watch a sunset or the likes... with one panel, I still have enough room to sit up there but if I later add a second panel it would take up the whole space.



If I install in front of the AC unit:
pros:
- no used up space in the rear section, so I can use rear for sitting and/or carrying some light loads

cons:
- may make wind noise or create drag; could be hit with debris.

other option is one up front and later on one behind.


Anyone has done this before that knows other pros/cons or preferences?

Thanks!

[tev123]

PSW wrote:
What a great looking installation!! tev123 you keep bringing back so many great memories we made in our Intervec years ago. It was absolutely about our favorite RV over the years.

Paul

Thank you.
Here she is eating just as her food is about to fade...

[gcvt]

PSW wrote:
TOMMY47, I installed a Renogy 100 watt panel by the conventional method (mounting brackets, drill into roof, etc.). A few months later, I installed a Renogy flexible 100 watt panel using the 3M tape discussed above which auto companies use to install mirrors, etc.

I then took an amp output meter to each panel and took a reading. Then, a voltmeter for voltage. The results: virtually identical readings. I hooked the two panels together and used them all last year to keep the batteries up when boondocking for weeks at a time. All I know is it worked fine for me. Others may have not had as good an outcome, but I am super happy.

Incidentally, tev 123, we owned an Intervec Horizon for many years. It is the little brother to the Falcon and we had a blast. I think it would be great to have a Falcon and fix it up, a project I would really enjoy.



Paul

Just FYI:

Renogy recall - fire hazard

Renogy's page

[PSW]

What a great looking installation!! tev123 you keep bringing back so many great memories we made in our Intervec years ago. It was absolutely about our favorite RV over the years.

Paul

[tev123]

Traveler7 wrote:
Looks great! How did you attach the brackets to the roof?

thanks
with the supplied screws plus dicor under the brackets and all over them.
if I need to replace a panel I can unscrew it from the brackets, but they are pretty permanently installed as they are.

[Traveler7]

Looks great! How did you attach the brackets to the roof?

[tev123]

panels installed over the weekend




album

[TOMMY47]

PSW---Thanks--I figured they were equal.

[PSW]

TOMMY47, I installed a Renogy 100 watt panel by the conventional method (mounting brackets, drill into roof, etc.). A few months later, I installed a Renogy flexible 100 watt panel using the 3M tape discussed above which auto companies use to install mirrors, etc.

I then took an amp output meter to each panel and took a reading. Then, a voltmeter for voltage. The results: virtually identical readings. I hooked the two panels together and used them all last year to keep the batteries up when boondocking for weeks at a time. All I know is it worked fine for me. Others may have not had as good an outcome, but I am super happy.

Incidentally, tev 123, we owned an Intervec Horizon for many years. It is the little brother to the Falcon and we had a blast. I think it would be great to have a Falcon and fix it up, a project I would really enjoy.



Paul

[TOMMY47]

Enox--give a link if one exists.

[EsoxLucius]

Keep looking.

[TOMMY47]

Esox---Who says they are not good performers? Haven't been able to find that anywhere.

[EsoxLucius]

Flexible panels are not good performers. Don't worry about drag from solar panels, it is minimal. Plan the location of your panels where they will get the least shade from other roof appurtenances.

[TOMMY47]

You can get flexible 100 watt panels on ebay. I installed it on the roof of a conversion van. Used the strongest adhesive tape sold and sealed it around the edges. No drilling or wind drag. A little more expensive but worth it in my opinion.

[scrubjaysnest]

I suggest making up a portable frame out of 3/4 inch pvc then you can put the panel anywhere and not worry about the roof.