Flexible Solar Panels .. any recommendations?

There should be some connectors on the exterior of the Pod. Labeled solar I would hope.

Originally posted by 3ofUs How do we know if we are solar ready?

As stated previously in this thread the term "Solar Ready" only means there is a connector on the outside of the POD.All it is,is a pair of 10ga wires that run all the way to the battery tray up front.

Very convenient for sure,but doesn't have to be a Zamp system as the label states.But compatibile with the Zamp system only for the simple reason that the Zamp system is self contained,meaning just plug it in once opened out of the box.The controller is mounted to the panel itself and comes with the pigtail already installed.One reason why it costs a bit more.

Probably a joint marketing venture between Forest River and Zamp,and works very well for some people for sure.Makes good business sense.

Some people like to make their own system,like me and others,to save a few bucks and allow for future expansion.The link posted here previously comes to mind with ideas.If choosing this route though,try to avoid wire nuts and electrical tape for making connections.Solder and shrink wrap for OEM reliability and water intrusion.Use 10 ga plug in adapters and wire made for exterior applications as well.

Post up your system intentions,lots of us find this very interesting!

Originally posted by 3ofUs Thanks, Charlie, but we have not seen any thing on the outside marked solar. Which side is it located? We have a 2011 182G.

I can't say because I don't have one. Perhaps someone with a solar 182G can jump in. However, I doubt you are so equipped because 2011 was pre-solar.

I have something very similar to this:
http://www.amazon.com/SunGold-Power-Portable-Folding-Module/dp/B00CJLVVB0
The vendor I bought it from is unfortunately no longer carrying them, because it was much cheaper from them.

Just open up the panel, place in the full sun, and attach the alligator-style clips to the battery(ies).  The charge controller is included with the panel.  My panel also has the same connectors as the 'zamp' plug on the newer pods.  It's just a 2-pin SAE connector, zamp doesn't have anything special.

we bought an 80 watt Zamp solar panel from a seller on Ebay. It was new in the box for the same price that Forest River is selling the 40watt panel for. We used it a couple of days dry camping. It never had any problem keeping our single battery fully charged. That said, I have no idea why I would add a second battery. The expense & weight of an extra battery. Plus the upkeep & hooking up the second battery, make the solar panel seem like a no brainer at this point.