Mystery solved.
The 8.6 is the "rated amps" for that 155w panel (18v is the "rated volts" ( seems more like Imp and Vmp--can't be Isc and Voc--too low)
EDIT: the actual specs for that panel (it is 8.86 Imp note)
http://gpelectric.com/files/gpelectric/Docs/Specs/Go_Power_SPC_CTI-155.pdfThe term "8.6 amps of charging power" is from their ad here (note salesman language--we know "power" is in watts, not amps)
http://gpelectric.com/products/155-watt-solar-charging-kitSo the self-proclaimed 'smarty' :) could have said that in the first place. Humph!