Added (2) 90 watt panels to the solar array for 520 watts total!

[rideadeuce]

Finally got around to installing the Zamp 90 watt slender panels on the Oliver today. Very simple, just some heat shrink for the wire connections and putting the feet on the panels. I used the AmvSolar tall feet on the passenger side and the standard ones on the driver side and prepped with alcohol before applying the supplied VHB tape... seems to be very sturdy. Time will tell. Still have to tidy up the wires but a thunderstorm with lightning rolled in. The package Am Solar sells had everything included for the install except (2) Zamp SAE connections and a SAE Y-splitter. But they sell both on the website. For some reason they cut off the original SAE connector so you have to re-install one, maybe if you gave them advanced notice you could get one that has not been removed. Curious to see how much Amp hour difference stored tomorrow.

 

From Am Solar:

 

 

My install:

 

[Raspy]

That is a very nice looking installation.  They fit perfectly, especially on the awning side.

 

So, no screws?  Just the VHB tape under the mounting bracket feet?

[SeaDawg]

Looks great!

Looking forward to hearing how it works out for you.

[Overland]

Fantastic.  I like that they sit about even with the awning.  Now you just need to install two more forward of those.  Did you upgrade the charge controller, or install a separate one for the two new panels?

[rideadeuce]

No screws just VHB tape. Am Solar swears by it if you prep it correctly, they said they have never had one come off. We shall see. If you can get the panels without the SAE connectors cut off it is pretty much plug and play.

 

@Overland, they said no upgrade needed unless I add more. I want to add Victron solar controller and possibly a display later so I will upgrade at that point if I do it. Thanks for your feedback and previous posts.

[hardrock]

Rideadeuce

 

I advise to err on the side of safety.  Solar panels can become flying uncontrolled wings that may cause serious harm to anyone behind you.  A simple but strong aircraft cable can be attached to your panel and tethered to a strong steel mount.  My concern is a good plan includes a backup plan.  I would not depend solely on tape.  Have fun and be safe.

[rideadeuce]

@Hardrock, I agree with you despite Am Solar's claims and my anxiety about being able to pull them off one day without damaging the hull. Redundancy, for the sake of safety seems smart. So instead of running a separate cable I am going to attach some 1/2 in S.S. wire straps to the 10 g double insulated wire connecting it the panel (heaving duty with conduit) and attach it to the panel's aluminum frame. On the junction end there is another larger 2-3 metal cable strap tying all the panel wires  together, so it should hold if anything happens to the panel bond. Thanks for reminding me what others have said, I hear ya!

 

https://www.amazon.com/LOKMAN-Stainless-Cushioned-Insulated-Installation/dp/B01HPE188Q/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=1%2F2+in+cable+strap&qid=1561719228&s=gateway&sr=8-4

[rideadeuce]

Tidied up the wires a bit and added some 1/2 in. s.s. straps attached to the panel just for some safety redundancy since I used VHB tape only for install. Thanks everyone.

[rideadeuce]

Birds eye view of solar array.

[mossemi]

Nice job trimming the tie wraps with flush cut snips.  I hate tie wraps when they are not cut properly and they end up being razors.

 

Mike

[Curious]

I am very interested in adding 90 watt panels when I purchase my Oliver. Could you answer a few questions about what charge controller you used and if you changed the wire from the roof combiner box to the charge controller. Thanks familykw@cox.net

[dfdouglas]

Very nice installation!  I am researching doing something similar.  I purchased a 2017 elite II with the standard solar package and first want to change out the Trojan batteries which were totally dry when I purchased the trailer.  My dilemma is go to AMG which is an easy upgrade or to Lithium which would require other hardware replacement.

[Ray and Susan Huff]

On 6/30/2019 at 8:01 AM, rideadeuce said:

Birds eye view of solar array.

Very nice.  Maybe a future Oliver option?  Looking forward to hearing how much power you gain.

[Overland]

18 minutes ago, Susan Huff said:

Maybe a future Oliver option? 

Or past. 😛

[dfdouglas]

With the standard solar from Oliver the junction box has three inputs with the two existing panels occupying two.  When adding the two new panels how do you wire them into the single vacant input?  Can you provide a list of parts and pieces you purchased for this installation?  Thanks.