Great update, Brian! Your ingenuity is endless. Adapting the shock cord design from tenting was really brilliant. And that black mandaid on your thumb. Priceless. 😉
Who says procrastination is a waste ? I held off doing this & all the combined ideas resolved my concerns ! It’s assy is next on my list... it will be used dual purpose for when at home, then taken & used on my Teardrop when traveling. Thanks for all your efforts, Tito !
I value your ideas Tito, thank you. I mounted a 100 watt panel to the side of my camper with locking hinge pins. Now I park in the shade and detach, place, them in the sun. Safe travels
This so awesome in so many ways, I actually have this drawn up as a ground set up or to sit on top of the camper and just did some testing with suction cups. Glad to see it you did it first and have been using it, you also solved my problem of window awnings. I have 1973 Apache Mesa I wanted to make awnings for and add solar, now its a done deal and I know it works. 2 birds, one stone. Thanks Tito. Btw, we could def come up with a lot if interesting ideas together I find most of the stuff you do is pretty much how I think.
Thank you Tito! After your last video, I decided I'm going to do this. Your new information here offers new solutions that I don't have to work out on my own, and they are brilliant! Bravo brother!
Tito! That string/folding storage idea blew my mind. Came across this / your channel again while searching for solar awning ideas, I might end up doing this at my house, or even using PVC as a lightweight, temporary structure to put some panels above my pool! Watching this was pretty great, it's awesome to see how this project has evolved over time for you ( I saw the original video on the 50w panel awning but not this one back in the day)
Outstanding! I have just purchased Renogy 100 watt starter kit and don't want to install it on the roof. This is perfect for what I need to do. Thank you.
Awesome! I'm planning to start vandwelling in about 6 months. One of my concerns was where to put solar panels this idea will work great for both the solar and shading for the van!
I subscribed when I found one of your articles accidentally on Google. You sound very knowledgable and I'm hoping my husband and I can get our '98 RV solar ready and smart as well. Thx again, Tito!👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Great idea. I'm going top be heading off full timing in about a year. This is something I could do without the worry of mounting something that could void the warrantee. I'm absorbing a lot from you and others here so I can be as prepared as I can for the next great adventure. Thanks..
Dig you how to videos, I’m head over heels for the “van life/big out” vehicles econoline vans like the sportsmobiles that my brother got me into.... so I’ve been researching how to build my own and all its amenities! Keep up the Kool videos!
Simply fantastic. I have watched your videos for the last year and had to take a moment and say how awesome they are. The innovations get better and better. Great idea also from the people that comment as well. I feel comfortable trying the ideas you have because of the simpl step by step process. I find your process is more detailed and explained in an insightful and user friendly manner. Thanks!
Great project I love this plan it really saves u from having to climb up on the roof to tilt the panels to be more efficient I also follow ausia from her UA-cam channel called panda minimum she has had this same concept for along time she started with the flexible panels and used them for some time but had problems with them. then she went with the 260 watt larger more regular ridged panels mounted to the side of her Rv it seems to work very well for her she baught the panels at northern Arizona wind and solar in flagstaff arizonia
Great idea, am sure you could adapt this principal to give a tilt set up for a roof mounted panel - hinging to roof brackets at one side then using the legs with suction cups to anchor at different angles on the roof of a van. Might make a small one of these to use to trickle charge the starter battery of my Sprinter van when it is parked up long term.
Great video presentation. Good lighting, Good sound, nicely edited; pacing is fine; commentary is relevant, complete, and succint -- excellent use of fast speed video; very well done! Thank you.
Genius! I've already built one 100 watt panel using crutch tips and am just about to start the second. I'll try the double suction cup version which will span the window nicely. I'll probably just use the first one on the ground.
Great idea and thanks mate! As I would rather not have anything permanently glued or screwed this system should work anywhere on the new van with our hot Queensland sun as a power solution while parked up :)
Brilliant idea! Hey Brian, any suggestions with very larger version same awning concept but using 6-8 solar panels having up to 900 watts? Don’t have any room on my RV roof to mount panels and must be on sides. Any suggestions....Will give updates on building process...Thanks
I made my frames before I watched your first video. I ordered the suction cups and started to change my frames to resemble yours. Only to discover that my rv has ridges and can’t use the suction cups. I’ll finish the last frame tomorrow and see if they will fit over the window. Thanks for the idea.
Tito - Thanks for your videos on solar installations and continuing to push the boundaries of flexible solar! Especially this one and the Eternabond tape failure video. But I'm a skeptic about the wind and this design after the high winds we've experienced, because you've mounted it up high. Have you tried setting it up on the ground? We were just boondocking in 50 mph gusts this winter and had a similar PVC frame (ours was glued) with flexible panel but we set ours up on the ground with rocks on the frame members, and it was still there in the morning (to our surprise). The problem with having it on the ground of course is that it's easier to steal...looks like you need a ladder to get yours down and most crooks don't carry a ladder with them. IDK, we like to leave camp for hikes and not worry too much about wind picking up. Have you considered attaching some white-colored permanent brackets to the side of the RV with VHB tape that you could clamp or tie onto? Just a thought. Thanks again for your post.
Great ideas and set-up. I would like to duplicate your set-up, but when I clicked on your parts list, it would not take me to the link .... is there another place I can review the parts list? Thanks
Now that you're doing extensive boondocking with solar, what lifespan are you getting from your batteries? As I recall you're using 6-volt batteries wired in series-parallel, right?
Great follow-up video! Very creative and very well done! Question for you on the electrical side of these panels. I assume the that the 100W and 50W panels are different enough that you can't connect them to the same charge controller. Could you clarify how you wired this additional panel into your RV?
You could use these together with the 50 watt panels but you'd lose a little power. It would be better to combine a 100 watt with another 100 watt panel (either in parallel or series). I've used a 100 watt panel with two additional 50 watt panels, unfortunately you will only get the current output of the lowest panel. Either way, the output would be connected to the charge controller (in the first video) which is hooked in parallel with my other controller.
Can you provide a link to the suction cups. I searched for surfboard suction cups on Amazon and I can't find these. I really like this project and want to copy it for my little Casita.
Pure genius. I have always heard bad things about the longevity of the flexible panels. Its been 2 years. How have yours held up? Do you think the suction cups would hold a 100w ridged frame panel to the side of your RV?
I wouldn't use those with a rigid panel. It might hold, BUT if for some reason they fall or the wind blows them off, you could damage your RV. BTW: I still have flex panels on the roof, but not these. They are higher quality. If you just used them for your windows though, they should last while.
WoW.! I can't believe I never thought this through at all.. What a great idea, even with rigid panels if you are permanently parked. Lots of great ideas,,Thank you.. new sub here, rang the bell.. lol
REALLY appreciate your videos Brian and would love to use your Amazon link so you get compensated for your labor of love as an instructor. You should lobby to Amazon to allow us to out in a simple account # or something so we don't have to leave our Prime basket to include you into our purchasing process. Just an idea. About to purchase $1,000 worth of solar equipment and wanted you to be compensated for your instructions and recommendations. Blessings!
Can I use a solid metal 100 watt panel? Will the suction cups hold the panel and what size pvc should I use? Brilliant idea and thanks for all your info.
I haven't tried it. Extra glass/metal panels are more difficult for me to haul around. You could probably get it working though if that's what you need. Once concern would be damage to your RV (and the panel) if it didn't hold. Good luck.
You might do better using an adaptation of this method to have a tilt mechanism on a roof mounted panel. Anchor one side of the panel to your roof using hinges, and then use this frame method with suction cups on the legs to adjust the angle by sticking the suctions cups to the roof of your van. You'd need to also have a lock down position for driving or when its too windy etc
Another great video...two questions...100 watt solar will generate about how much amp? Also if you have a slide let's say that has two larger windows and want to have two panels...is there an easy way to join parallel to the batteries? Would the charge controllers be a problem?
100 watt panels generate around 5.5 amps. So in parallel, they would generate around 11 amps total. Hooked in series, two 100 watt panels would generate 5.5 amps but the voltage will be doubled. You'll have to choose a charge controller that is rated higher than the max voltage and current of your panels.
WOW! How heavy are each of these panels? Could I put them on my vintage trailer? I'm 5'6" so would I need a ladder? Is it awkward to maneuver for 1 person?
Excellent in all regards. What are your thoughts on permanent installation? We have been thinking about such an application on our next RV. Planning on trading up ASAP. Appreciate your hard work!
Too many things could go wrong with a similar permanent install (in my opinion). Personally, I am not thinking of this as a permanent install. I would keep the permanant solar on the roof and keep the sides clear.
RVwithTito Appreciate your insight. We are offgrid for protracted periods and carry solar suitcases, deployable panels and permanent panels up top but always looking for more real estate. Keep up the stellar work!
Incredible timing...my solar generator and panels will be here Friday and I've been trying to find a way to mount them..... thanks for these ideas! I'd like to tap into your, and your followers', minds. Mine will be stationary for now, so....how cam I mount on wood textured siding? I cannot damage siding. Any suggestions would be appreciated...btw, my panels are not flexible. I had promised myself no more subs! But with info like this, I'm in! Journey mercies from Charlie THE cat and the crazy old lady on the lake in upstae SC!
I like the white rubber feet on the small panels better than the black foam corner pads. Was there a reason you didn't use T's above the leg ends to construct your cross brace and keep the white rubber feet?
Have you given any thought to permanent mounts? At the top (for some reason I'm seeing a broom holder cut into and affixed at various positions with butyl tape) 🤔and the lower side positions so that each spot marks the optimal sun . I'm sooooo putting your videos into my van building file. Sincere thanks for your time and effort in helping out others. Mw
You should give it a try and let me know. I'm not planning on a permenant mount for the side. My roof is already covered in solar. We prefer to keep the outside of the RV looking like it's original self.
Hi, Brian. Looking for your thoughts/opinion. I have 3 x 100 watt rigid panels. Just got a deal on 3 x 300 watt/24 volt system. May keep my old system as well. What do you think about using the 100 watt rigid panels as awnings? Would the pvc pipe approach work? Perhaps larger diameter pipe Would probably use hinges to mount panel from above window. Happy to hear from any of your other subscribers as well. Thanks. Cheers!!
The only think you'd need PVC for might be for the legs. I definitely would not go with the suction cups as anchors (too heavy). Hinges would be better, but then you'd have to install and remove them each time you setup and leave.
Absolutely genius. So where can I buy a box of bandaids like the one on your right thumb? (Kidding!) All your videos are so well done - keep up the great work.
Tito: Is your goal to now have enough solar on your rig to be able to change your you batteries 100% by the end of the day on a cloudy day or 100% by 11:00am on a sunny day?...which is what I would strive for as well. At what point would you consider adding another battery to your array?
It's always my goal to get back to 100% as soon as possible. These portable solutions, just give me more options especially in less that optimal conditions (clouds, low sun, etc.) I just upgraded my batteries to 450 Ah which is a good number for me. I don't see adding more. Maybe down the road I'd go with Lithium. But I'm good for now.
***..WOW .. useful tips .. genius .. Thanks a whole lot Brian ..*** ***..I already have 1 / 170 watts solid, heavier solar panel .. Can I use your invention on heavy sturdy solar panel as well ? thank you for answering .***
Thanks so much Brian! I've learned so much from your videos. We're starved for your videos judging from 124 replies in 2 days! I just installed solar this weekend with an MPPT controller and SAE quick connect in an underneath compartment after getting the courage and know how from your videos. The next step is to make this frame for my panel. Do I need to be concerned about the MPPT controller draining the batteries (2-6 volt golf cart) when the RV isn't in use and the panel isn't connected? If so, should I just remove the fuse between the controller and battery or is there a better way to disconnect the controller from the battery when not in use?
People had tried alcohol and it does not work. Use acetone found in fingernail polish remover. You can find in any store. This actually removes a layer. (I googled it. lol)
Hey Jorge. I tried, but couldn't get it done. Someone suggested acetone, so I borrowed Melissa's nail polish remover (without asking) to try it. DIdn't work. Maybe it didn't have enough. The only thing that worked for me was sand paper.
Did you try PVC cleaner? I don't remember ever having black marks on PVC pipe on which I use PVC cleaner before I glued the joints. Just brush on and wipe off with a rag.
How do you tie in these portable panels to your existing MPPT controller? I've read that adding two separate sources can/will mess up the MPPT controller, as it detects more volts/amps at the battery than are really there (as it sees the incoming power from the portable solution)
For it to work, both MPPT controllers need to be programmed so that the voltage matches at each charging stage (i.e. both at 14.6 for the bulk stage). Otherwise, what you say is correct. They will be fighting each other and try to switch at different times.
I'm trying to think of a way to attach multiple solar panels together to make one huge awning and permanently mount it to the side of my cargo trailer.
No glueing on this one. All the pieces stay together well especially after being screwed to the panel. Plus I wanted to be able to take it apart for storage.
Great update, Brian! Your ingenuity is endless. Adapting the shock cord design from tenting was really brilliant. And that black mandaid on your thumb. Priceless. 😉
Haha . Thanks guys. Even Melissa thought the string thing was cool :)
Who says procrastination is a waste ? I held off doing this & all the combined ideas resolved my concerns ! It’s assy is next on my list... it will be used dual purpose for when at home, then taken & used on my Teardrop when traveling. Thanks for all your efforts, Tito !
You're welcome. It's a pretty easy project. Good luck.
I value your ideas Tito, thank you. I mounted a 100 watt panel to the side of my camper with locking hinge pins. Now I park in the shade and detach, place, them in the sun. Safe travels
This so awesome in so many ways, I actually have this drawn up as a ground set up or to sit on top of the camper and just did some testing with suction cups. Glad to see it you did it first and have been using it, you also solved my problem of window awnings. I have 1973 Apache Mesa I wanted to make awnings for and add solar, now its a done deal and I know it works. 2 birds, one stone. Thanks Tito. Btw, we could def come up with a lot if interesting ideas together I find most of the stuff you do is pretty much how I think.
Great minds think alike. I don't use this setup anymore, but still have a couple of these stored away somewhere :)
Thank you Tito! After your last video, I decided I'm going to do this. Your new information here offers new solutions that I don't have to work out on my own, and they are brilliant! Bravo brother!
Great! Any idea can be improved upon. Maybe you'll come up with a neat solution too.
The fold up idea with the string is genius. Great job!!
Thanks. Super simple right?
Tito! That string/folding storage idea blew my mind. Came across this / your channel again while searching for solar awning ideas, I might end up doing this at my house, or even using PVC as a lightweight, temporary structure to put some panels above my pool! Watching this was pretty great, it's awesome to see how this project has evolved over time for you ( I saw the original video on the 50w panel awning but not this one back in the day)
So simple right? It's one of those "why didn't I think of that" moments :)
Hard to believe you could have improved on the first version. Very easy to do. Genius.
Yeah. A lot of ideas came from other folks. Easy is always better :)
One of those, "why didn't I think of that" ideas. You have come up with a really neat, easy, and practicle idea.
Right? Sometimes it's the simple solutions that we miss.
Outstanding! I have just purchased Renogy 100 watt starter kit and don't want to install it on the roof. This is perfect for what I need to do.
Thank you.
You're welcome. Good luck!
Great build Brian! Definitely added to my to do list for the trailer!! The suction cups on the feet are an excellent update!
Thanks! Yes the leg suction cups make a big difference.
Awesome! I'm planning to start vandwelling in about 6 months. One of my concerns was where to put solar panels this idea will work great for both the solar and shading for the van!
Awesome! Let me know how ti works out.
I subscribed when I found one of your articles accidentally on Google. You sound very knowledgable and I'm hoping my husband and I can get our '98 RV solar ready and smart as well. Thx again, Tito!👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Great video. Very creative
Great idea. I'm going top be heading off full timing in about a year. This is something I could do without the worry of mounting something that could void the warrantee. I'm absorbing a lot from you and others here so I can be as prepared as I can for the next great adventure. Thanks..
Thanks Steve. Yes, it's absolutely removable and not permanent.
This just opened a bunch of ideas for me thank you for the start. Will share soon as I get my Transit towards the end of the year.
That's one terrific idea. thank you I was looking into installing an awning on my fifthwheel
good job Tito.
Great Ideas!! I am currently putting together a couple of 100 W panels for our new RV. They work great!! thank you for sharing.
Awesome! You're welcome.
Dig you how to videos, I’m head over heels for the “van life/big out” vehicles econoline vans like the sportsmobiles that my brother got me into.... so I’ve been researching how to build my own and all its amenities! Keep up the Kool videos!
Simply fantastic. I have watched your videos for the last year and had to take a moment and say how awesome they are. The innovations get better and better. Great idea also from the people that comment as well. I feel comfortable trying the ideas you have because of the simpl step by step process. I find your process is more detailed and explained in an insightful and user friendly manner. Thanks!
Thanks Manny. It makes me feel great hearing that these videos have inspired you to try it on your own. Glad you've watched for a year now.
Nice addition to your previous panels.
Another great Idea! Well done Brian.
Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it.
Brian, you are one clever dude!
You're a mad genius!! Definitely going to make some to get more sun juice.. AWESOME
Mad? Perhaps :) Good luck on the project.
Awesome! Can’t wait to get solar on. Our rig. Thank you for sharing
Great. Glad you liked the ideas.
Suction cups on the legs. Brilliant!
Yeah. I think there are lots of applications for those. This is just the first.
Great project I love this plan it really saves u from having to climb up on the roof to tilt the panels to be more efficient I also follow ausia from her UA-cam channel called panda minimum she has had this same concept for along time she started with the flexible panels and used them for some time but had problems with them. then she went with the 260 watt larger more regular ridged panels mounted to the side of her Rv it seems to work very well for her she baught the panels at northern Arizona wind and solar in flagstaff arizonia
My bad it should have read Panda Moneium not panda minimum
Yeah I've seen Ausia's setup too.
Great idea, am sure you could adapt this principal to give a tilt set up for a roof mounted panel - hinging to roof brackets at one side then using the legs with suction cups to anchor at different angles on the roof of a van. Might make a small one of these to use to trickle charge the starter battery of my Sprinter van when it is parked up long term.
Of course. I use it for my standing up panels on the ground as well. Easy peezy :)
Great video presentation. Good lighting, Good sound, nicely edited; pacing is fine; commentary is relevant, complete, and succint -- excellent use of fast speed video; very well done! Thank you.
It’s always inspiring to watch your videos!!! Thanks for the update!
Genius! I've already built one 100 watt panel using crutch tips and am just about to start the second. I'll try the double suction cup version which will span the window nicely. I'll probably just use the first one on the ground.
Sounds good. Lots of ways to tweak this one. Have fun with it.
Great video, very innovative, i will be incorporating into my projects. Thank you Brian
Thanks. Hope it got your gears turnin. 👍
Tito man you are really smart with these little Ideas you come up with. you should have patient it .lol but seriously great job!
Hey Thanks Charles!
Using the string to tie it together. Genius.
Sure makes it easier to put back together doesn't it?
Yeah, if you could do it with the legs too then it would be perfect.
Great idea and thanks mate! As I would rather not have anything permanently glued or screwed this system should work anywhere on the new van with our hot Queensland sun as a power solution while parked up :)
Thanks! Good luck to you down there.
Brilliant idea! Hey Brian, any suggestions with very larger version same awning concept but using 6-8 solar panels having up to 900 watts? Don’t have any room on my RV roof to mount panels and must be on sides. Any suggestions....Will give updates on building process...Thanks
Great job. Gonna be using your channel for ideas on my new camper solar panels. Thanks
I made my frames before I watched your first video. I ordered the suction cups and started to change my frames to resemble yours. Only to discover that my rv has ridges and can’t use the suction cups.
I’ll finish the last frame tomorrow and see if they will fit over the window. Thanks for the idea.
Tito - Thanks for your videos on solar installations and continuing to push the boundaries of flexible solar! Especially this one and the Eternabond tape failure video. But I'm a skeptic about the wind and this design after the high winds we've experienced, because you've mounted it up high. Have you tried setting it up on the ground? We were just boondocking in 50 mph gusts this winter and had a similar PVC frame (ours was glued) with flexible panel but we set ours up on the ground with rocks on the frame members, and it was still there in the morning (to our surprise). The problem with having it on the ground of course is that it's easier to steal...looks like you need a ladder to get yours down and most crooks don't carry a ladder with them. IDK, we like to leave camp for hikes and not worry too much about wind picking up. Have you considered attaching some white-colored permanent brackets to the side of the RV with VHB tape that you could clamp or tie onto? Just a thought. Thanks again for your post.
Great ideas and set-up. I would like to duplicate your set-up, but when I clicked on your parts list, it would not take me to the link .... is there another place I can review the parts list? Thanks
You should find it at www.kit.com/rvwithtito
Bloody awesome! Ethan from Australia 🇦🇺
Great mod well thought out and love the string addition
Thanks!
Great ideas! We now have some ideas of our own after watching this video. Thanks a bunch for sharing.
Now that you're doing extensive boondocking with solar, what lifespan are you getting from your batteries? As I recall you're using 6-volt batteries wired in series-parallel, right?
Thanks for all you do to keep us informed!
Excelente idea Bryan . I Like that ,I'm going to do the same thing on mi 28 foot long bus ,100 w panels (buen trabajo amigo )Bryan
Best idea I have found so far. Thank you
The string! Your are a genius
Great follow-up video! Very creative and very well done!
Question for you on the electrical side of these panels. I assume the that the 100W and 50W panels are different enough that you can't connect them to the same charge controller. Could you clarify how you wired this additional panel into your RV?
You could use these together with the 50 watt panels but you'd lose a little power. It would be better to combine a 100 watt with another 100 watt panel (either in parallel or series). I've used a 100 watt panel with two additional 50 watt panels, unfortunately you will only get the current output of the lowest panel. Either way, the output would be connected to the charge controller (in the first video) which is hooked in parallel with my other controller.
You are a genius. Thank you
Can you provide a link to the suction cups. I searched for surfboard suction cups on Amazon and I can't find these. I really like this project and want to copy it for my little Casita.
In the video description there's a link to all the materials for this project.
Pure genius. I have always heard bad things about the longevity of the flexible panels. Its been 2 years. How have yours held up? Do you think the suction cups would hold a 100w ridged frame panel to the side of your RV?
I wouldn't use those with a rigid panel. It might hold, BUT if for some reason they fall or the wind blows them off, you could damage your RV. BTW: I still have flex panels on the roof, but not these. They are higher quality. If you just used them for your windows though, they should last while.
WoW.! I can't believe I never thought this through at all.. What a great idea, even with rigid panels if you are permanently parked.
Lots of great ideas,,Thank you.. new sub here, rang the bell.. lol
REALLY appreciate your videos Brian and would love to use your Amazon link so you get compensated for your labor of love as an instructor. You should lobby to Amazon to allow us to out in a simple account # or something so we don't have to leave our Prime basket to include you into our purchasing process. Just an idea. About to purchase $1,000 worth of solar equipment and wanted you to be compensated for your instructions and recommendations. Blessings!
Glad you've enjoyed the videos. I appreciate the support. Cheers.
Can I use a solid metal 100 watt panel? Will the suction cups hold the panel and what size pvc should I use?
Brilliant idea and thanks for all your info.
I haven't tried it. Extra glass/metal panels are more difficult for me to haul around. You could probably get it working though if that's what you need. Once concern would be damage to your RV (and the panel) if it didn't hold. Good luck.
You might do better using an adaptation of this method to have a tilt mechanism on a roof mounted panel. Anchor one side of the panel to your roof using hinges, and then use this frame method with suction cups on the legs to adjust the angle by sticking the suctions cups to the roof of your van. You'd need to also have a lock down position for driving or when its too windy etc
wow ... this is absolutely genius ... thanks for overloading me with ideas ;-)
Another great video...two questions...100 watt solar will generate about how much amp? Also if you have a slide let's say that has two larger windows and want to have two panels...is there an easy way to join parallel to the batteries? Would the charge controllers be a problem?
100 watt panels generate around 5.5 amps. So in parallel, they would generate around 11 amps total. Hooked in series, two 100 watt panels would generate 5.5 amps but the voltage will be doubled. You'll have to choose a charge controller that is rated higher than the max voltage and current of your panels.
love it love this video and it's very good project I want to build one too
It's a pretty easy project. You should.
WOW! How heavy are each of these panels? Could I put them on my vintage trailer? I'm 5'6" so would I need a ladder? Is it awkward to maneuver for 1 person?
They are very light. I don't carry a ladder tall enough so climb up on the roof to mount the tops.
Subscribed just because of this video. Just awesome ideas. Keep going
Thank you Brian!! That was a bunch of great ideas!!
Thanks David!
Excellent in all regards. What are your thoughts on permanent installation? We have been thinking about such an application on our next RV. Planning on trading up ASAP. Appreciate your hard work!
Too many things could go wrong with a similar permanent install (in my opinion). Personally, I am not thinking of this as a permanent install. I would keep the permanant solar on the roof and keep the sides clear.
RVwithTito Appreciate your insight. We are offgrid for protracted periods and carry solar suitcases, deployable panels and permanent panels up top but always looking for more real estate. Keep up the stellar work!
Another great mod to a great idea. Thanx for posting.
Glad you liked it!
Incredible timing...my solar generator and panels will be here Friday and I've been trying to find a way to mount them..... thanks for these ideas! I'd like to tap into your, and your followers', minds. Mine will be stationary for now, so....how cam I mount on wood textured siding? I cannot damage siding. Any suggestions would be appreciated...btw, my panels are not flexible. I had promised myself no more subs! But with info like this, I'm in! Journey mercies from Charlie THE cat and the crazy old lady on the lake in upstae SC!
I like the white rubber feet on the small panels better than the black foam corner pads. Was there a reason you didn't use T's above the leg ends to construct your cross brace and keep the white rubber feet?
Have you given any thought to permanent mounts? At the top (for some reason I'm seeing a broom holder cut into and affixed at various positions with butyl tape) 🤔and the lower side positions so that each spot marks the optimal sun . I'm sooooo putting your videos into my van building file. Sincere thanks for your time and effort in helping out others. Mw
You should give it a try and let me know. I'm not planning on a permenant mount for the side. My roof is already covered in solar. We prefer to keep the outside of the RV looking like it's original self.
Hi, Brian. Looking for your thoughts/opinion. I have 3 x 100 watt rigid panels.
Just got a deal on 3 x 300 watt/24 volt system. May keep my old system as well.
What do you think about using the 100 watt rigid panels as awnings?
Would the pvc pipe approach work? Perhaps larger diameter pipe
Would probably use hinges to mount panel from above window.
Happy to hear from any of your other subscribers as well.
Thanks.
Cheers!!
The only think you'd need PVC for might be for the legs. I definitely would not go with the suction cups as anchors (too heavy). Hinges would be better, but then you'd have to install and remove them each time you setup and leave.
Thanks Brian
Great tips as always sir, thanks for sharing your solar solutions! - Shane
Absolutely genius. So where can I buy a box of bandaids like the one on your right thumb? (Kidding!) All your videos are so well done - keep up the great work.
Those "mandaids" come on a roll :)
Real men use duct tape, that looks like electrical tape. OK, if you're going out to a formal black tie and tape dinner:)
Loved this follow up.
Tito: Is your goal to now have enough solar on your rig to be able to change your you batteries 100% by the end of the day on a cloudy day or 100% by 11:00am on a sunny day?...which is what I would strive for as well. At what point would you consider adding another battery to your array?
It's always my goal to get back to 100% as soon as possible. These portable solutions, just give me more options especially in less that optimal conditions (clouds, low sun, etc.) I just upgraded my batteries to 450 Ah which is a good number for me. I don't see adding more. Maybe down the road I'd go with Lithium. But I'm good for now.
I like the way you think :-) thank you for sharing
***..WOW .. useful tips .. genius .. Thanks a whole lot Brian ..***
***..I already have 1 / 170 watts solid, heavier solar panel .. Can I use your invention on heavy sturdy solar panel as well ? thank you for answering .***
Not sure if I'd do it this way with a heavy panel. If it falls, then the consequences would be more severe over using a flex panel.
Wow, awesome ideas! Thank you :)
You're welcome.
If you use the panel for a short time to charge the battery how does this effect the battery. If you do not fully charge the battery many time. Jack
That was great thanks. What video editing do you use ? Vince
Thanks. I'm using Adobe Premier Pro now. I still have a lot to learn...
Good work, has it improved your Wattage intake?
love you man that was really cool what you did keep it coming
Thanks Jose! I'll keep em comin.
Thanks so much Brian! I've learned so much from your videos. We're starved for your videos judging from 124 replies in 2 days! I just installed solar this weekend with an MPPT controller and SAE quick connect in an underneath compartment after getting the courage and know how from your videos. The next step is to make this frame for my panel. Do I need to be concerned about the MPPT controller draining the batteries (2-6 volt golf cart) when the RV isn't in use and the panel isn't connected? If so, should I just remove the fuse between the controller and battery or is there a better way to disconnect the controller from the battery when not in use?
Great video Brian. Can you use alcohol to clear the markings on the pipe so does not look like pvc pipe?
People had tried alcohol and it does not work. Use acetone found in fingernail polish remover. You can find in any store. This actually removes a layer. (I googled it. lol)
Hey Jorge. I tried, but couldn't get it done. Someone suggested acetone, so I borrowed Melissa's nail polish remover (without asking) to try it. DIdn't work. Maybe it didn't have enough. The only thing that worked for me was sand paper.
Did you try PVC cleaner? I don't remember ever having black marks on PVC pipe on which I use PVC cleaner before I glued the joints. Just brush on and wipe off with a rag.
you could get some spray paint suitable for use on PVC and spray them - silver would be good.
Brilliant!! Wish I was this creative lol
Nah. I just wander around Home Depot and Amazon looking for ideas. Sometimes a good one pops in my head, then I can't sleep. :)
As usual, very informative and fun.
Very Cool Ideas! Great DIY Jobs!
How do you tie in these portable panels to your existing MPPT controller? I've read that adding two separate sources can/will mess up the MPPT controller, as it detects more volts/amps at the battery than are really there (as it sees the incoming power from the portable solution)
For it to work, both MPPT controllers need to be programmed so that the voltage matches at each charging stage (i.e. both at 14.6 for the bulk stage). Otherwise, what you say is correct. They will be fighting each other and try to switch at different times.
...and I think I just found your next VLOG....Programming 2 MPPT controllers to match each other. I'll give it 10 Thumbs Up in advance. :) :)
Great project. I have considered doing something similar.
very neat, nice mods too a good idea
Thanks! Glad you liked it.
you're smarter then the average, like that string idea
Hope I didn't string you along to far into the video before showing that idea ;)
You can still have the cross bar between the two legs, just insert a T 3-4 inches from the bottom and add a piece of PCV between them.
I'm trying to think of a way to attach multiple solar panels together to make one huge awning and permanently mount it to the side of my cargo trailer.
Solar panels become thinner and more flexible over the years. Soon they are integrated into the awning. just roll out and get shade and power. :)
Very ingenious! Even I could build those! lol!
Yes. Even you :)
Do you glue he pvc pipe? I did not see you glue any. Another great video, I say all of yours, thanks
No glueing on this one. All the pieces stay together well especially after being screwed to the panel. Plus I wanted to be able to take it apart for storage.
Can you put flexible panels on the large awning already on an RV? Will it roll up as usual?
No. They are not that flexible. They can bend ever so slightly for mounting on slighly curved surfaces. That's it.
Awesome! How ingenious:)
Great video and project, Brian, you're a talented guy. Curious what your 'real' job is, you're too young to retired ...
Thanks Ron. So nice of you. I am a software engineer by day and a creative tinkerer by night. Who needs sleep :)
Great job, awesome tips
Thanks Daryl!
good job. I like the way you think.
Awesome idea!
Love the outtakes :)
Thanks! This is marketable...
Or just makeable :) Maybe we should start calling it the "Tito Shade" so when a someone mass produces it, you'll say "hey...there's a Tito Shade".
I like the electricians band-aid.
No. Melissa called it a "mandaid" which I thought was too perfect.