Zamp Solar - Event Date: 27 Jul 2015

Originally posted by MPRpod In response to Topher 2u2 and his 100W Renogy setup: I'm contemplating the same setup for a two week trip to the desert, but know little about electrical. What you describe seems simple enough but I want to make sure I'm understanding correctly since I don't have the Zamp connector on my 2014 177.  It appears you use the alligator clips supplied with the panel to connect from the panel directly to the battery - is this correct? It also sounds like there's an in line fuse with the alligator clamps. What does the fuse protect if you're using the charge controller? You mention you charge phones with this setup and here's where I really demonstrate my ignorance: If you're running the Pod only off the 12V system, how are you watching TV or charging your phone? Do I need to buy an inverter of some type?  I'll have a generator with me as a back up but want to minimize use and the amount of gas I need to carry. Thanks for any help, advice, or clarification!

The solar panel will need to run to a charge controller, which regulates the voltage and amperage going to your batteries and charges them correctly. So your solar panel will be wired to your charge controller, which will also be wired to your batteries. I show how to do this with lots of pictures in the thread I referenced earlier.

I have a 10 amp in-line fuse going from my charge controller to my batteries, though it isn't absolutely necessary. It's a safety measure so that if something screws up with your charge controller and/or solar panel, it won't fry your batteries.

You can indeed run your TV from your batteries, but you will likely need an inverter to do it unless your TV runs on 12v DC. You can either use alligator clamps to connect the inverter directly to your batteries, or you can wire your inverter into a spare opening in your Pod's fuse box. Be aware that a TV will probably draw at least 100 watts, maybe much more, and this will drain your batteries in a matter of hours. If you plan on watching a lot of TV while not running your generator, I would suggest looking at some of the small DC powered TVs out there. Some even have built in DVD players and only draw 5-10 watts.

To charge your phone, all you need is a 12v socket. These must also be installed into an opening in your fuse box. There are many pictures in this forum of people showing how to do this. It took me about 20 minutes. You can then use a car charge to charge up your phone.

I have a 2015. 179. It came with the Zamp port. Does it also come with a regulatir/controller? Seems like if the Pod comes setup for a Zamp solar panel pthere would be a regulator/controller built in to the system. If using a inverter are 2 6 volt batteries better than one 12 vwith a solar Charger? Also, anyone have an opinion on a flexible rooftop Panel?

I am getting ready to install a 100w solar panel to the roof of my 177; can anyone tell me about the infrastructure of the roof?  I have removed the A/C cover and can see a metal framework but am not sure if there is a layer of plywood under the fibreglass roof top that will hold the screws. Thanks

You'll be happy with the Renogy. I added an extra battery and am charging with the Renogy 100W. No problems whatsoever, plus I can use the solar charger to maintain the batteries when the trailer is parked. Much more affordable option than the Zamp.

The 100w panel is plenty for our needs.  We have run a the 12v fan (all day and night), watched TV, charged phones, and run lights with no concern of draining the battery.


Are you using a DC TV or running an inverter for a 120 volt AC TV?