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Topic ClosedSolar panels to charge batteries
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SLO Pod View Drop Down
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Joined: 09 Aug 2015
Location: san luis obispo
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Posts: 5 		Direct Link To This Post Topic: Solar panels to charge batteries
    Posted: 10 Aug 2015 at 4:23pm
I'm a newby, but interested in proceeding with the solar.  My 2015 178 is "solar ready" with the Zamp hookup, but I am going to get the renology 100 W suitcase.  Do you know where you can get the SAE connector for the hook up? Do you or others recommend a second battery, or do you find that one 12V battery suffices?
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Joined: 16 Sep 2014
Location: San Antonio
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Posts: 1108 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 11 Aug 2015 at 8:50am
Originally posted by SLO Pod

I'm a newby, but interested in proceeding with the solar.  My 2015 178 is "solar ready" with the Zamp hookup, but I am going to get the renology 100 W suitcase.  Do you know where you can get the SAE connector for the hook up? Do you or others recommend a second battery, or do you find that one 12V battery suffices?

Usually the SAE connectors at local auto parts stores and Box box suppliers are 12 gauge or lighter. You can get good 10 gauge SAE connectors on Ebay. 

The need for a second battery is determined by how the system is used. E.g. I camp of the grid on the beach at the Gulf of Mexico. Plenty of Sunshine, not much shade so I get by with a 50w panel and one group 24 batter. If you camp up in the woods or in areas with a lot of overcast like the Pacific NW, you may want to consider having another battery. Think storage. Batteries do not generate power, they store power.  
Cliff & Raelynn
Ranger 4.0/178
(1/2 ton 5,800lb tow capacity)
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WillThrill View Drop Down
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Posts: 298 		Direct Link To This Post Posted: 11 Aug 2015 at 3:27pm
Below is a thread discussing this exact topic. I did it myself and provide several pictures showing how. It's very easy.

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=5017&title=connecting-a-100-watt-solar-panel-to-zamp-port
"Not all those who wander are lost." Tolkien

2014 Hood River 177
2005 GMC Envoy XL
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