*Here are some of the reference links I mentioned in the video that will help teach you more about installing DIY solar and electrical in a camper:* Blog Post, Parts List & Wiring Diagram: www.explorist.life/diy-solar-electric-install-on-a-1976-airstream-argosy/ Andy’s Accompanying Video: ua-cam.com/video/cdpPbDibDds/v-deo.html Andy’s UA-cam Channel: ua-cam.com/users/andyrawls Andy’s Website: andyrawls.com/ EXPLORIST.life Merch: teespring.com/stores/exploristlife How to Perform a Power Audit: ua-cam.com/video/a406IxiU-Xg/v-deo.html Basic Parts & Components of an Electrical System: ua-cam.com/video/xuZg4NasCVw/v-deo.html Similar System w/ Alternator Charging: www.explorist.life/3000w-inverter-400-600ah-400-to-1200w-solar-camper-solar-kit Smaller System w/ Alternator Charging: www.explorist.life/2000w-inverter-200-400ah-lithium-200-to-700w-solar-camper-wiring-diagram/ How to Cut Wire: www.explorist.life/how-to-cut-wire/ How to Strip Wire: ua-cam.com/video/ca45dL2X4SM/v-deo.htmlHow to Crimp Wire: ua-cam.com/video/JmiX2XW48F8/v-deo.html How to Make MC4 Connectors: ua-cam.com/video/YFAKK491wj0/v-deo.html How to Read Voltage with a Multimeter: ua-cam.com/video/Qvp0MN6mcmA/v-deo.html Securing Solar Panels to Roof (Andy’s Video): ua-cam.com/video/ihAiioFAUv4/v-deo.html How to Wire Solar Panels in Series-Parallel: ua-cam.com/video/b2H8vpj8rQg/v-deo.html How to Crimp Wire Ferrules: ua-cam.com/video/h8CHAVmpPFw/v-deo.html How to Wire an AC/DC Breaker/Fuse Box: Victron BMV-712 Battle Born Settings: Victron Smartsolar MPPT Battle Born Settings: Here is a list of the MAIN components in the system: (4) Battle Born Lithium Batteries: (1) Victron Multiplus 3000 Inverter/Charger (1) Victron SmartSolar MPPT 150|75 Solar Charge Controller (1) Victron BMV-712 Smart Battery Monitor (1) Victron VE.Bus Smart Dongle (8) 100w Newpowa Monocrystalline Solar Panels
COOL, I'm going to up-grade my BBB this January to the Heated ones. I hope I can film this. I need to see what all I need to run my 2 x 1200 watts cooker/induction plate. What size inverter do I need? (2000, 2500, 3000) I do not have room for the big 3000 one you use.
I'd almost forgotten about this stuff.. lol, to reiterate my past I must say you've got really good research/organization skills that not only connect at a level I can understand but it saves me lots of time too. I say this b/c I'd done extensive research before finding you & right away I saw just how much info you'd packed in each video. I'm not yet ready to do anything w/ "Solar" but I've got your stuff bookmarked in it's own file, lol..... When last speaking to you I'd been stuck on the issues w/ batteries ; lead acid has downsides & the Lithium is too expensive..... but I've not checked on prices in the last 6-7 months but I'm optimistic that if the President is reelected that this bottleneck might loosen its grip? You do all around good work, whats not to like.... peace & be safe
@@RVingwithG Nice! I've been seeing people having good results with induction cooktops on the 3000w. Inverter: www.explorist.life/3000w-inverter-400-600ah-400-to-1200w-solar-camper-solar-kit
After a month of watching this video and looking over purchased diagrams from you, we just completed the install of our electrical system. It truly would not have felt possible without your resources, so just wanted to pop in and offer a sincere thank you for all your hard work and shared wisdom. You really are the bes!
Nate, the time and effort to make this video and collaboration had to have been huge. Thank you for doing it. This video is one of the absolute best install explanations I've seen.
The ultimate guide for building a proper 12V solar system! ... Wire gauges, series+parallel solar panels, busbar termination, battery disconnect, battery monitor shunt, fuses, DC solar breaker, shore power inverter/charger. Excellent 👌
In all honesty Nate, this is the most valuable video/set of videos I may have ever found on UA-cam ever. I needed your help so badly, and I cannot thank you enough for empowering so many people, by opening doors to solar knowledge with the keys you have. Bless your soul, and I’ll be a huge fan and find ways to support for years to come. Thank you!
I'm hiring an electrician to install my system. Assuming I can find a home electrician to do the work, I'm certain he will very much appreciate this very helpful guide and your comprehensive part and component list and your blog just makes this video all I will need to finish this project with confidence.
I've watched this so many times in preparation for installing our van's electrical system and it helped so much! Thanks so much for all your hard work and for putting this together!
Glad this was helpful! Thanks for watching. :) Will is great too. We just teach things a little differently and it's nice because everybody learns differently. :)
great video, even for those of us who've been installing these systems for years, something for all types of experiences to gain from this expert level of explanation, thank you!
This is so helpful!! I appreciate the level of detail you go into, and the helpful tips like using rubbing alcohol on the battery terminals to ensure a good connection. I will be coming back to this video many times as I work through my electric install!
At 9:28 you did something that 99% of humans are incapable of doing. For that you have earned a new subscriber. The bonus for me... you seem to excel at what you do. Thanks for the great video!
Super, Super video!!! Please keep them coming. Perfect timing as well since I am into doing almost the identical project and adding in an aux. alternator.
Wow, I watched a lot of DIY help videos before landing here and am so impressed by how thorough this information is. Thanks for putting this all together!
Great suggestion. Added to 'videos to make' list. Battle Born recently released their self heating batteries: battlebornbatteries.com/product-category/lifepo4-batteries/heated-battery-kits/?afmc=explorist_bb67
I'm converting a old sprinter 2004 to a Camper with mu son here in Brazil. Unfortunately the great Victron products are way too expensive here... but all your videos are THE BEST on UA-cam. I bought the guides in explorist website and are being of great value. Just passing by to say THANK YOU!
Best video on setting up a lipo victron system, well done! Would love to see one with a nations alternator and dc/dc victron charger integrated in. Thanks much for sharing your knowledge.
Nate, I came across your channel when I was researching new charge controllers for my rig. My Bogart 2030 failed on me, and I needed to replace it. Your wiring diagrams are a game changer. Not only did I replace the Bogart, I reworked my wiring according to your diagram. Previously I had inadvertently created a feed back loop on the negative side of my system. The results of this caused my battery to be constantly discharging no matter how much sun I was getting on my panels. My panels were barely able to keep things going during the day. By dawn my battery was always down to about 25%. (It's a 200AH AGM) After reworking my system my battery barely discharges down to 70% during the night, and it's usually fully charged by 9-10AM. Good work! Looking forward to my next build using all of your specifications.
Mate, I hope you make enough money from UA-cam giving out this information for free! You are an absolute god send. I've been in contact with a company in the UK regarding sizing my mppt charing unit. They want £120 just to tell me..... That's ontop of the cost of the unit!!!
I'm good with my hands, I'm a welder, but the electrics is so far beyond my brain capacity 😂. I really can't thank you enough. I've going to buy all my gear via your links to make sure you get some money from me some how. One thing I'm looking at buying a roamer lithium battery (made in the UK) but its not Bluetooth compatible. Does that mean the victron bluetooth monitoring system won't work? Or is there a way of wiring to the battery to still get the information required from the battery.... If that makes any sense
Thankyou for this tutorial, I'm confident I can wire my system now by using it. Going with mostly the same equipment except for the batteries and solar panels because of space constraints but otherwise the same. You rock!!
Damn!! That is a damn, good job of explaining things in layman's terms so even I can understand it. Seriously thank you so much for your time well done! Just a guy from Texas named Rick Fort Worth baby!
youre making the most comprehensive videos on this project.. BY FAR. As I attempted to wrap up my own project today, I realized that I hadn't comprehended that the Cerbo GX isn't the magical bluetooth connection that I thought It was from previous videos. Perhaps a video of what's important to be bluetoothed (and how) into the vicltron app for settings purposes, especially for apple users, as the ve.configure app seems to be strictly for Windows users...which makes the VRM option a bit prohibitive. Keep up the amazing work. I didn't even zap myself during this project!!
Nate this is the best video I have seen so far and followed this the same for the past month. Unfortunately I turned on power today and got nothing so must of missed something.
The lynx distributor manual specifically instructs to leave the comm cable under the fuse (place fuse on top) but I agree with you that it can cause some resistance. Not sure what to believe haha. BTW your series/blog/wiring diagram is fantastic and BY FAR the best self help tool out there. After going through everything for a couple of weeks it all makes sense and I feel confident about my setup. Thank you.
I'm so glad you made this video. I have plans that I am following following for my Van but your explanation and installation guide on this video is very helpful. I've done housewiring on several houses that I've owned and I can appreciate your attention to detail. Getting a better understanding how to do electrical wiring in a mobile Structure is very insightful.
I’m about to turn that main switch from off to on. 😬 Kinda freaking out but you have given me the confidence I need to move forward. Thank you for all your wonderful videos and blog posts!
ok, how about an update Rebecca! -lol- Are you still alive? Any smoke? Sparks? I dunno about others, but I'm a worry~wart kinda guy. Its been 4 days since you said you were about to turn on yer main switch... FOUR DAYS . . . . So, say sompin' will ya!?!?
@@kipdon lol cliff hanger… I’m still alive and well. No sparks, van still stands, and I remain unscathed. All that freaking out lead to nothing but a beautiful start up. All systems GO! Nate’s wiring diagrams and videos are just that good. Thanks for checking in on me 😂
Best video I've seen to date! In combination with my own trade skill (15 yrs - carpentry) and other how to guides/manuals, I'm confident I can DIY my home on wheels in a month (full time). Just have to wait on getting all the parts bought or received before starting. Thanks a bunch for the effort you've but into your vids!!!
Your very detailed approach during both the install and the video helped me to finally understand how various elements of the system worked together. Many thanks for such a clear and helpful demonstration and explanation
Found your channel a couple of weeks ago and watched all recent videos. Really interesting to now watch this one and see how far you have come within just a year or so! Love the channel.
Absolutely excellent video, I am starting to wire the solar/shore power system on a boat I am building, the video is the best available anywhere! Many thanks!
I appreciate the work on this video and the mass of information. I was hoping to see the 40 min mark when you discussed testing and troubleshooting the system before firing it up. I couldn't tell if you ran into any bad parts or any course corrections. Thanks for the video, I especially liked the shore power setup.
I really enjoy your videos, your explanations are very easy to understand and I really like the way you approach the different tasks required for those of us, who are not as familiar with solar installation… I think I’m gonna need some help on this project of putting solar panels on the roof of my toy hauler, I have already taken the liberty of purchasing solar panels and inverter and after watching some of your videos, I think I’m gonna need some help, at least some hints, to appointment in the right direction..
Your videos have helped me so much in converting my van this past year. Your diagrams on your website and tutorials are so clear and concise. Thank you for taking the time to cover all your bases and put all this information out there!!
Great video! Trying to learn all I can... I have a new MultiPlus 12/3000/120-50 2x120V Inverter/Charger sitting in the box and a 50A 5th wheel to install it in... wanna do a video of that?!? LOL! All of your tips and tutorials are going to be invaluable to me! Appreciate all of them!
Thanks for the great vid. Your video production gets a 10 out of 10. I could hear every word and your. Picture synced up perfect. People don't realize that a DYI video must have good Audio!
Good! I had audio issues in this video (Kept forgetting to turn my shotgun mic around **facepalm**) Glad I was able to recover it enough to be good. :)
I am at an RV convention that features solar installations. There are several electrical engineers here, that are convinced that a bus bar is not needed, or more efficient than using a breaker box. Please shed some light on this scenario. Your viewpoint and expertise is much appreciated.
They serve different purposes. A breaker box is going to power all of the 120V branch circuits like your 120V outlets, air conditioner, 120V hot water heater, etc. The "Busbar" is going to distribute power to the high powered DC devices like inverters that can pull well over 200A each at full capacity. or the charge controller that will charge at 100A DC at max capacity. Or the DC DC Charger that could potentially charge at 100A DC max capacity and at those specs, we are talking about breakers that cost well over $500 per breaker. I suspect there is a breakdown in communication there, though... as a busbar is simply a way of distributing power. There are standalone busbars sure, but there are busbars in an AC breaker box too; so I don't think I'm getting all of the information/confusion as a 3rd party.
@@EXPLORISTlife Nate, Thanks for that very simple answer. The jargon was the issue, but the clear answer makes the functionality, plain and easy to understand.
Thanks for putting this together and sharing so much information. I'm starting to understand all the piece needed for a solar setup and how they all work together.
Awesome vid. Very easy to follow the process. I was saving several different vids to get different bits and pieces. This puts it all together start to finish. 👍🤜🤛
Love your videos. You explain it so easy and understandable. I link your videos to a Norwegian forum, so I hope you will get some new subscribers. So great that you mention that connect plus on battery 1 and negative cable to battery 4. Many people don't do that.
wow .........this is what I really want in my van . BUT ....i didnt have time or money or confidence ...so I purchased "solar generators" (stupid expressioin ) ...Bluetti systems . I hope in the future I can take the time to build this system. Great project ! thank you I will keep this as my study guide ..
This Perfect!!! Exactly What I've been searching for!!! Covers all the things I've had the most questions on! Thank you so much for doing this!. I can't wait to share my build. I can't Say thank you enough!!!!
Hey Nate! Love the channel! Super helpful! I do want to say, I've been looking through everything closely as I prepare for a build. And found that on this parts list you are using a master switch with 300a continuous rating (it does have more for intermittent current) and it's fused at 400a. That leaves room for the switch to be overworked, or possibly fail. Just wanted to point it out with the common goal of safety for everyone!
I purchased everything I need for a solar setup on my old camper, which I never installed. I have a new camper, but do not have any plans to install solar on it anytime soon. So, I have decided to make myself a really large uninterruptable power supply for the PC and Starlink in my new camper, which can later be modified for a solar setup in the future if I decide to do it. I'm afraid that if I don't put the batteries to use that they will eventually go bad. It's been close to 2 years since I purchased them. I intend to use 4x 100 AH LiFeP04 batteries wired to my Lynx Distributor and then connect my 2000w inverter to that. I plan to use a Smart Shunt, a 400a fuse and a kill switch between the battery bank and the distributor. I also have a Victron IP22 charger which will keep the battery bank fully charged while the shore power is connected and live (also connected to the distributor). All of this will be attached and contained using 80/20 to create a frame. My question is, do I really need a chassis ground in this scenario? It will be a portable unit, not a permanently attached system.
Nate, love your work and presentation style. I had to lay out my four batteries in a way similar to how you had to in this video. I found the “halfway” approach to parallel wiring described in the Victron Wiring Unlimited document to make the wiring easier/more uniform.
You have to be the smartest guy I have ever watched! Newly subscribed. I watched your van install first, but am likely to apply this to a towable. Do you have a video to include connections for alternator charging from the tow vehicle or would this not be recommended? PS, I see your future videos addressing possible charging of toatally electric tow vehicles (i.e., Ford Lightning, Rivian trucks) from camper trailer or 5th wheel solar panels. Thanks for sharing all of your knowledge.
When connecting the battery monitor cable from the Victron BMV-712 to the (+) busbar on the Lynx Distributor, what do you do with all the extra wire? Do you leave it folded and tuck it into the Lynx Distributor? Thanks for the help.
I like your reply! I have a credit card that didn't have much of a balance on it, so I started ordering parts and pieces over the internet (without worrying about funds), to build a quality Solar Power Generation system, much like the one Nate did here. By the time I was done, my balance on my Credit card was approximately $15,000.00. However, it was great fun, and it kept me out of the Bars at night!
Hi Nate, This information is very useful and one of a kind in that all of the information is in one place! I have built several simple off grid systems but my current build is the most complex and is using the Victron multiplus charger inverter, Victron MPPT charge controller and BMV 712. I have everything wired up, however am having a hard time finding clear instructions for programing the multiplus and and charge controller for the Battle Born Batteries. I haven't powered up the system and was hoping you could point me in the direction of programing tutorials. Thanks for all the work that goes into these videos and tutorials, purchased on of the diagrams for my current system. Thanks!
holy cow you guys did a great job on everything your doing , just excellent i will be watching this soon waiting on my batteries and panel and such , this is super great!
What's a good way to figuring out how much electricity you use per day / how much power you'll end up needing? We're a rock band so will most likely be using recording equipment and such inside, so having a good amount of power is probably a necessity!
Hey Nate, so thankful for your resources you provide. Definitely gonna pick up that van shirt as I just got one! Fiancé and I are looking to start our electrical system soon so your videos will be a huge help. Also you must play a little WOW there with that little Leeroy Easter Egg. Just wondering Horde or Alliance? Thanks again Nate!
I am setting up a solar system in my old rv 1993 fleetwood. I will be running a 48v battery system and was wondering what the typical amp draw is on the 12v side of the rv system. The victron 48v to 12v converter is a $100 difference between 20amp and 30amp. Is 20amp sufficient for a basic rv 12v system or would I need the 30 amp.
Such a great video walking through this setup! We're ALMOST to this phase in our build! Just wired the 110V panel to outlets and getting ready to build our battery bank rack. Thanks so much for making this vid! Love how you have "chapters" in this! Will definitely make going back to certain sections of the video, easier. - Brian + Erin Currently converting an old school bus into our tiny home on wheels
@@EXPLORISTlife That's what I was thinking! LOL! We have everything you just showed except for the Lynx! Hadn't heard of that device until now... Is it ok to just use a multi fuse bus bar in it's place? It seems like the Lynx just monitors the fuses and shows if one goes bad? Or am I missing something? Thanks so much for commenting back! We Erin and I really appreciate it! - Brian
The Lynx Distributor is essentially 2 busbars ( a positive and a negative) and 4 high-current fuse holders wrapped up into one nice neat package with a protective cover. I was a proponent of individual busbars and indivudual fuse holders for the longest time, then even making my own busbars. But for the money, the Lynx Distributor is only a little more expensive, but can be installed in a MUCH smaller area and will have fewer connections which means less points of potential failure as well as decreased "DC Ripple" which will make components last longer (mainly the Inverter/Charger). I can't think of a reason to not use the Lynx Distributor.
@@EXPLORISTlife That helped me understand it a lot better! I was just scratching my head trying to see what was different other than the monitoring capability, but it makes sense now :) We had a little victory of properly wiring some three-way switches the other day... Now this is a bit more intensive! LOL! But your video explained it so well! We appreciate you taking the time to do this! - B+E
3 way switches are honestly pretty tricky. It took quite a bit of diagramming to get those to work the first time around. Andy has like 4 different 3 way switches in this build. haha
Victron has VE.Can resistive tank sender adapter have you used them to monitor levels in RV freshwater, grey water and black water tanks. The standard sensors seem to be very inaccurate after a short period of time
I've watched all your videos and took notes to help me to collect and save what I need to do, I've watched this one a few times, I don't know if I somehow missed it or it went over my head 😂 and I am pretty positive that I understand how to do my wiring for my solar system I will be putting into my diy mini travel trailer. But I'm slightly confused about the set up that will combine with shore power and hooking up power outlets and a fridge. Do I or do I not use 10/3 romax wiring from a fuse box through my build and into the power outlets I need for my refrigerator, tv and other household appliances? Or do I only use that wiring to go from my shore power inlet to the fuse box blocks and then connect 12v wiring from everything to the power outlets? 🤔 I'm ready to start my installation process but stuck at this
@@stevenmullins9799 I have not been able to really continue on and figure it out yet...so much going on around here that I had to set it all aside until another day. But I'm still wondering and waiting for the answer.
Argh, Confused again. At 19:05 in your video you're installing a 150Amp fuse to protect MTTP. I was going to get a 50 Amp for a 50AmpMPPT. My Solar array pegs out at 52Amps. What am I missing here? Oh and the coach has a standard 30 Amp service breaker. Will I need to upgrade this if I swap out (2)FL Acid for (2) SOK206Ah Lithiums?
I have to say I did like the Lynx distribution box with built in fuses; I've always used individual fuse holders on the DC positive to each device, which makes for additional crimping of short cables and more space used. One issue I had was with the paralleling of the two string of solar panels, which seems like it could be a problem in partial shade. I don't know about the specific solar charge controller you used, but Victron does make these with two mc4 channels, so you can attach each serial string to their own input.
I really enjoyed this video great information. You have me thinking about trying to do this. This was much first time watching one of your videos. My only input would be to work in focus that made the video a bit rough. Thanks
As an educator... it would be irresponsible of me to say that a manufacturers recommendation 'doesn't matter', so thats up to you on how many corners you want to cut.
Love the video and in the midst of my own Airstream battery and inverter upgrade. Question about the current system in my 2020 Flying Cloud... there is a 12VDC Panel assembly (gray box with CAUTION on it). I imagine this is the equivalent to the Lynx distributor to some degree - though it also seems to power all of the auxillary dc components such as Break Away switch, seven way plug, stabilizer jack, E-brakes and power brakes, and LP detector. Additionally, the battery and converter come in and it seems to have the shunt with the solar attached to measure inflow and outflow to the batteries. It seems most of this could exist in the lynx distributor, but that would mean migrating all of these auxiliary wires over to the DC distribution panel (I imagine). I guess my thought is to leave it intact and connect it to the lynx distributor but reduces any redundancy. I have search for answers already but have found little on how this little gray box fits into the equation. My airstream is in pretty good condition, so I want to be as minimally invasive as possible to run new wiring throughout.
So I think this is where the DC comes in from several sources - the tow vehicle via 7 Way pin, the converter (factory is a Intelli-power 9100 model PD9160AL, and the two marine batteries, and the solar). It feeds the power to the critical functions while on the move, but also facilitates battery charging while on the move, from shore power, and solar (there was a factory shunt in this enclosure). I just stripped out the connections to the old battery and the shunt (solar feed disconnected too). When I went to remove the converter connection (converter is actively receiving power for heat and light), the entire airstream lights went out despite the converter feeding directly into the DC distribution panel - not sure why this was the case. I imagine I will eventually have to move this connection through the Lynx distributor (will be multiplus II to Lynx) with a connection back to this VDC Panel Assembly as these key components will need power from the batteries while on the move. I imagine the charge portion coming off the tow vehicle should route through the Orion-Tr Smart isolated DC/DC charger.
In the event of a blown fuse, it can light up a light on the cover to indicate a blown fuse and when paired with the Lynx Shunt and a GX Device like the Victron Cerbo GX, can provide some addiitonal monitoring/features.
@@EXPLORISTlife I see you're not using the Lynx Shunt. Would the cheaper Lynx Power In do the same job as the Lynx Distributer when not using the Lynx Shunt? Also I wish Victron made a mirror image model of the Lynx DC Distribution System. My battery bank will sit to the right of my buss bars. Right side connection to the Lynx Power In would have a cleaner look and use shorter battery cables
In the time line 34:58 I see that Andy's camper is 30amp shoe power. My DIY restoration( 1969 Holiday Rambler travel trailer) is in fact gonna be upgraded too 50amp. My question is ...... Will I need two inverter/converters, or is there a 50amp inverter
What considerations are explored to securing the heavier objects in case of moving accident. A soup can flying from the back of the build at 20 Mike’s an hour can be deadly. Batteries could crush.
@@EXPLORISTlife yeah it’s just a risk you take. In an ocean going sailboat, one has to design for movements in all axis. There are some wonderful books that show solutions. I often think of sailing vessels to guide me on making the best out of small spaces. They have been at this sort of thing for years and we can learn so much from the design of smaller ocean going vessels in the 32’ or so range.
Question about fuse size on lynx distributor for the DC distribution panel. Why the 100amp mega fuse? What determines the fuse size? I don’t see anything in the manual regarding what size fuse should be used? And, why does it need a fuse when it is made up of blade fuses? Thanks for the help.
*Here are some of the reference links I mentioned in the video that will help teach you more about installing DIY solar and electrical in a camper:*
Blog Post, Parts List & Wiring Diagram: www.explorist.life/diy-solar-electric-install-on-a-1976-airstream-argosy/
Andy’s Accompanying Video:
ua-cam.com/video/cdpPbDibDds/v-deo.html
Andy’s UA-cam Channel: ua-cam.com/users/andyrawls
Andy’s Website: andyrawls.com/
EXPLORIST.life Merch: teespring.com/stores/exploristlife
How to Perform a Power Audit: ua-cam.com/video/a406IxiU-Xg/v-deo.html
Basic Parts & Components of an Electrical System: ua-cam.com/video/xuZg4NasCVw/v-deo.html
Similar System w/ Alternator Charging: www.explorist.life/3000w-inverter-400-600ah-400-to-1200w-solar-camper-solar-kit
Smaller System w/ Alternator Charging: www.explorist.life/2000w-inverter-200-400ah-lithium-200-to-700w-solar-camper-wiring-diagram/
How to Cut Wire: www.explorist.life/how-to-cut-wire/
How to Strip Wire: ua-cam.com/video/ca45dL2X4SM/v-deo.htmlHow to Crimp Wire: ua-cam.com/video/JmiX2XW48F8/v-deo.html
How to Make MC4 Connectors: ua-cam.com/video/YFAKK491wj0/v-deo.html
How to Read Voltage with a Multimeter: ua-cam.com/video/Qvp0MN6mcmA/v-deo.html
Securing Solar Panels to Roof (Andy’s Video): ua-cam.com/video/ihAiioFAUv4/v-deo.html
How to Wire Solar Panels in Series-Parallel: ua-cam.com/video/b2H8vpj8rQg/v-deo.html
How to Crimp Wire Ferrules: ua-cam.com/video/h8CHAVmpPFw/v-deo.html
How to Wire an AC/DC Breaker/Fuse Box:
Victron BMV-712 Battle Born Settings:
Victron Smartsolar MPPT Battle Born Settings:
Here is a list of the MAIN components in the system:
(4) Battle Born Lithium Batteries:
(1) Victron Multiplus 3000 Inverter/Charger
(1) Victron SmartSolar MPPT 150|75 Solar Charge Controller
(1) Victron BMV-712 Smart Battery Monitor
(1) Victron VE.Bus Smart Dongle
(8) 100w Newpowa Monocrystalline Solar Panels
COOL, I'm going to up-grade my BBB this January to the Heated ones. I hope I can film this. I need to see what all I need to run my 2 x 1200 watts cooker/induction plate. What size inverter do I need? (2000, 2500, 3000) I do not have room for the big 3000 one you use.
I'd almost forgotten about this stuff.. lol, to reiterate my past I must say you've got really
good research/organization skills that not only connect at a level I can understand but it
saves me lots of time too. I say this b/c I'd done extensive research before finding you &
right away I saw just how much info you'd packed in each video. I'm not yet ready to do
anything w/ "Solar" but I've got your stuff bookmarked in it's own file, lol..... When last
speaking to you I'd been stuck on the issues w/ batteries ; lead acid has downsides &
the Lithium is too expensive..... but I've not checked on prices in the last 6-7 months
but I'm optimistic that if the President is reelected that this bottleneck might loosen
its grip? You do all around good work, whats not to like.... peace & be safe
can u call me
@@RVingwithG Nice! I've been seeing people having good results with induction cooktops on the 3000w. Inverter: www.explorist.life/3000w-inverter-400-600ah-400-to-1200w-solar-camper-solar-kit
@@diggydice9041 Awesome! Glad it's been helpful.
After a month of watching this video and looking over purchased diagrams from you, we just completed the install of our electrical system. It truly would not have felt possible without your resources, so just wanted to pop in and offer a sincere thank you for all your hard work and shared wisdom. You really are the bes!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
How waa your optional lynx..
How much did all of this cost?
I am late to the Explorist life party, but boy am I glad I found you guys! Thanks for helping us vanlife dreamers and roadtrip warriors!
Nate, the time and effort to make this video and collaboration had to have been huge. Thank you for doing it. This video is one of the absolute best install explanations I've seen.
Hey Chris Meeks, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
took the words out of my mouth :)
Yes, Thanks Nate!
seriously tho.. lol im so far out of my league with this.. youre a hero
Now anybody should feel confident attempting this install.
The ultimate guide for building a proper 12V solar system! ... Wire gauges, series+parallel solar panels, busbar termination, battery disconnect, battery monitor shunt, fuses, DC solar breaker, shore power inverter/charger. Excellent 👌
In all honesty Nate, this is the most valuable video/set of videos I may have ever found on UA-cam ever. I needed your help so badly, and I cannot thank you enough for empowering so many people, by opening doors to solar knowledge with the keys you have. Bless your soul, and I’ll be a huge fan and find ways to support for years to come. Thank you!
I'm hiring an electrician to install my system. Assuming I can find a home electrician to do the work, I'm certain he will very much appreciate this very helpful guide and your comprehensive part and component list and your blog just makes this video all I will need to finish this project with confidence.
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
I've watched this so many times in preparation for installing our van's electrical system and it helped so much! Thanks so much for all your hard work and for putting this together!
Again this young man is the VERY BEST I have seen doing this. I thought will prowse was good. But this smart man is 10 xs better.
Glad this was helpful! Thanks for watching. :) Will is great too. We just teach things a little differently and it's nice because everybody learns differently. :)
great video, even for those of us who've been installing these systems for years, something for all types of experiences to gain from this expert level of explanation, thank you!
Hey! It's awesome to hear that coming from a van outfitter. Thanks for watching! :D
This is so helpful!! I appreciate the level of detail you go into, and the helpful tips like using rubbing alcohol on the battery terminals to ensure a good connection. I will be coming back to this video many times as I work through my electric install!
Wow!!! I’ve seen allot of videos.. but this made everything come together!! Thank you!!
At 9:28 you did something that 99% of humans are incapable of doing. For that you have earned a new subscriber. The bonus for me... you seem to excel at what you do. Thanks for the great video!
Thanks! I'll always try to point out when something is less than ideal. All part of the learning process for all parties involved. :)
Super, Super video!!! Please keep them coming. Perfect timing as well since I am into doing almost the identical project and adding in an aux. alternator.
Thanks! Will do! More of these types of videos are definitely in the future.
Wow, I watched a lot of DIY help videos before landing here and am so impressed by how thorough this information is. Thanks for putting this all together!
How about a video on different ways to keeping batteries warm/heated in winter!👍🤙
Yes!! This is definitely something we need to see
My plan is a radiant heat floor.
Great suggestion. Added to 'videos to make' list. Battle Born recently released their self heating batteries: battlebornbatteries.com/product-category/lifepo4-batteries/heated-battery-kits/?afmc=explorist_bb67
I saw that shortly after my post. I'll be heading out that way to purchase 2 of them for next winter.
@@EXPLORISTlife these are what I bought. I figured it took care of the heating issue and it it comes with the Battleborn warranty!!!!
I'm converting a old sprinter 2004 to a Camper with mu son here in Brazil. Unfortunately the great Victron products are way too expensive here... but all your videos are THE BEST on UA-cam. I bought the guides in explorist website and are being of great value. Just passing by to say THANK YOU!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Best video on setting up a lipo victron system, well done! Would love to see one with a nations alternator and dc/dc victron charger integrated in. Thanks much for sharing your knowledge.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching! Will try to get a DC DC charger in the next one.
Nate, I came across your channel when I was researching new charge controllers for my rig. My Bogart 2030 failed on me, and I needed to replace it. Your wiring diagrams are a game changer. Not only did I replace the Bogart, I reworked my wiring according to your diagram. Previously I had inadvertently created a feed back loop on the negative side of my system. The results of this caused my battery to be constantly discharging no matter how much sun I was getting on my panels. My panels were barely able to keep things going during the day. By dawn my battery was always down to about 25%. (It's a 200AH AGM) After reworking my system my battery barely discharges down to 70% during the night, and it's usually fully charged by 9-10AM. Good work! Looking forward to my next build using all of your specifications.
This is a fantastic video! Perfect timing as I am going together with my solar system. Thanks so much!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Mate, I hope you make enough money from UA-cam giving out this information for free!
You are an absolute god send.
I've been in contact with a company in the UK regarding sizing my mppt charing unit. They want £120 just to tell me..... That's ontop of the cost of the unit!!!
I'm good with my hands, I'm a welder, but the electrics is so far beyond my brain capacity 😂. I really can't thank you enough.
I've going to buy all my gear via your links to make sure you get some money from me some how.
One thing I'm looking at buying a roamer lithium battery (made in the UK) but its not Bluetooth compatible. Does that mean the victron bluetooth monitoring system won't work? Or is there a way of wiring to the battery to still get the information required from the battery....
If that makes any sense
👍 Danke fürs Hochladen!
👍 Thanks for uploading!
No problem. Happy to help!
@@EXPLORISTlife
👍 Bitteschön, keine Ursache - gern geschehen!
👍 Here you go, don't worry - you're welcome!
Thankyou for this tutorial, I'm confident I can wire my system now by using it. Going with mostly the same equipment except for the batteries and solar panels because of space constraints but otherwise the same. You rock!!
Damn!! That is a damn, good job of explaining things in layman's terms so even I can understand it. Seriously thank you so much for your time well done! Just a guy from Texas named Rick Fort Worth baby!
youre making the most comprehensive videos on this project.. BY FAR. As I attempted to wrap up my own project today, I realized that I hadn't comprehended that the Cerbo GX isn't the magical bluetooth connection that I thought It was from previous videos. Perhaps a video of what's important to be bluetoothed (and how) into the vicltron app for settings purposes, especially for apple users, as the ve.configure app seems to be strictly for Windows users...which makes the VRM option a bit prohibitive. Keep up the amazing work. I didn't even zap myself during this project!!
Nate this is the best video I have seen so far and followed this the same for the past month. Unfortunately I turned on power today and got nothing so must of missed something.
The lynx distributor manual specifically instructs to leave the comm cable under the fuse (place fuse on top) but I agree with you that it can cause some resistance. Not sure what to believe haha. BTW your series/blog/wiring diagram is fantastic and BY FAR the best self help tool out there. After going through everything for a couple of weeks it all makes sense and I feel confident about my setup. Thank you.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
I'm so glad you made this video. I have plans that I am following following for my Van but your explanation and installation guide on this video is very helpful. I've done housewiring on several houses that I've owned and I can appreciate your attention to detail. Getting a better understanding how to do electrical wiring in a mobile Structure is very insightful.
I’m about to turn that main switch from off to on. 😬
Kinda freaking out but you have given me the confidence I need to move forward. Thank you for all your wonderful videos and blog posts!
ok, how about an update Rebecca! -lol- Are you still alive? Any smoke? Sparks? I dunno about others, but I'm a worry~wart kinda guy. Its been 4 days since you said you were about to turn on yer main switch... FOUR DAYS
. . . . So, say sompin' will ya!?!?
@@kipdon lol cliff hanger…
I’m still alive and well. No sparks, van still stands, and I remain unscathed. All that freaking out lead to nothing but a beautiful start up. All systems GO! Nate’s wiring diagrams and videos are just that good. Thanks for checking in on me 😂
Nice! Glad it helped! :)
If i’m still watching near the end? I’ll be watching this vid over and over again )
Best video I've seen to date! In combination with my own trade skill (15 yrs - carpentry) and other how to guides/manuals, I'm confident I can DIY my home on wheels in a month (full time). Just have to wait on getting all the parts bought or received before starting. Thanks a bunch for the effort you've but into your vids!!!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
All I've got to say is strong work brother!!! Strong work!! This will be invaluable as I start my van conversion this spring!!!!!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Your very detailed approach during both the install and the video helped me to finally understand how various elements of the system worked together. Many thanks for such a clear and helpful demonstration and explanation
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
This is the level of detail we all needed. Thank you so much.
Found your channel a couple of weeks ago and watched all recent videos. Really interesting to now watch this one and see how far you have come within just a year or so! Love the channel.
Definitely an evolution! Thanks for tuning in! 😁😁
Thanks, your the man. Simple and straightforward. Why is it so difficult to get simple info like that from people on solar?
Absolutely excellent video, I am starting to wire the solar/shore power system on a boat I am building, the video is the best available anywhere! Many thanks!
Hey Jay Knight, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
I appreciate the work on this video and the mass of information. I was hoping to see the 40 min mark when you discussed testing and troubleshooting the system before firing it up. I couldn't tell if you ran into any bad parts or any course corrections. Thanks for the video, I especially liked the shore power setup.
There was no troubleshooting. It worked as expected. 🙂👍
I really enjoy your videos, your explanations are very easy to understand and I really like the way you approach the different tasks required for those of us, who are not as familiar with solar installation…
I think I’m gonna need some help on this project of putting solar panels on the roof of my toy hauler,
I have already taken the liberty of purchasing solar panels and inverter and after watching some of your videos, I think I’m gonna need some help, at least some hints, to appointment in the right direction..
Your videos have helped me so much in converting my van this past year. Your diagrams on your website and tutorials are so clear and concise. Thank you for taking the time to cover all your bases and put all this information out there!!
Great video! Trying to learn all I can... I have a new MultiPlus 12/3000/120-50 2x120V Inverter/Charger sitting in the box and a 50A 5th wheel to install it in... wanna do a video of that?!? LOL! All of your tips and tutorials are going to be invaluable to me! Appreciate all of them!
Thanks for the great vid. Your video production gets a 10 out of 10. I could hear every word and your. Picture synced up perfect. People don't realize that a DYI video must have good Audio!
Good! I had audio issues in this video (Kept forgetting to turn my shotgun mic around **facepalm**) Glad I was able to recover it enough to be good. :)
This is extremely helpful. I wish you also had the alternator and diesel generator connections on this system.
I am at an RV convention that features solar installations. There are several electrical engineers here, that are convinced that a bus bar is not needed, or more efficient than using a breaker box. Please shed some light on this scenario. Your viewpoint and expertise is much appreciated.
They serve different purposes. A breaker box is going to power all of the 120V branch circuits like your 120V outlets, air conditioner, 120V hot water heater, etc.
The "Busbar" is going to distribute power to the high powered DC devices like inverters that can pull well over 200A each at full capacity. or the charge controller that will charge at 100A DC at max capacity. Or the DC DC Charger that could potentially charge at 100A DC max capacity and at those specs, we are talking about breakers that cost well over $500 per breaker.
I suspect there is a breakdown in communication there, though... as a busbar is simply a way of distributing power. There are standalone busbars sure, but there are busbars in an AC breaker box too; so I don't think I'm getting all of the information/confusion as a 3rd party.
@@EXPLORISTlife
Nate, Thanks for that very simple answer. The jargon was the issue, but the clear answer makes the functionality, plain and easy to understand.
Nate, these videos are amazing and very helpful. I am learning a lot here. Thank you for these.
Nice job using a Victron pen. And nice job on everything.
Hey RYAN MURPHY, Thanks so much! Cheers!
Thanks for putting this together and sharing so much information. I'm starting to understand all the piece needed for a solar setup and how they all work together.
Man you are a life saver with this video. Costing me a fortune though 😥
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
I've enjoyed every second of your video. Greetings from Holland
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Nate, thanks so much for this video. Your knowledge of industry electrical standards is phenomenal. I wish I could hire you to do my install.
Awesome vid. Very easy to follow the process. I was saving several different vids to get different bits and pieces. This puts it all together start to finish. 👍🤜🤛
Wow, great video. You found a new subscriber, I love the attention to detail and being very thorough!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Love your videos. You explain it so easy and understandable. I link your videos to a Norwegian forum, so I hope you will get some new subscribers. So great that you mention that connect plus on battery 1 and negative cable to battery 4. Many people don't do that.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
wow .........this is what I really want in my van . BUT ....i didnt have time or money or confidence ...so I purchased "solar generators" (stupid expressioin ) ...Bluetti systems . I hope in the future I can take the time to build this system. Great project ! thank you I will keep this as my study guide ..
Hey CaribbeanZapatta, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Nice job Brian! Composting toilet is a future project for us!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Awesome information! I watched the entire video and will possibly watch again. Thanks for all the hard work!
No problem. Happy to help!
This Perfect!!! Exactly What I've been searching for!!! Covers all the things I've had the most questions on! Thank you so much for doing this!. I can't wait to share my build. I can't Say thank you enough!!!!
Hey Nate! Love the channel! Super helpful! I do want to say, I've been looking through everything closely as I prepare for a build. And found that on this parts list you are using a master switch with 300a continuous rating (it does have more for intermittent current) and it's fused at 400a. That leaves room for the switch to be overworked, or possibly fail. Just wanted to point it out with the common goal of safety for everyone!
The installing is so important, thank you.
I purchased everything I need for a solar setup on my old camper, which I never installed. I have a new camper, but do not have any plans to install solar on it anytime soon. So, I have decided to make myself a really large uninterruptable power supply for the PC and Starlink in my new camper, which can later be modified for a solar setup in the future if I decide to do it. I'm afraid that if I don't put the batteries to use that they will eventually go bad. It's been close to 2 years since I purchased them.
I intend to use 4x 100 AH LiFeP04 batteries wired to my Lynx Distributor and then connect my 2000w inverter to that. I plan to use a Smart Shunt, a 400a fuse and a kill switch between the battery bank and the distributor. I also have a Victron IP22 charger which will keep the battery bank fully charged while the shore power is connected and live (also connected to the distributor). All of this will be attached and contained using 80/20 to create a frame.
My question is, do I really need a chassis ground in this scenario? It will be a portable unit, not a permanently attached system.
How can you not subscribe? Thanks Nate! Unlocking the freedom of the outdoors! woohoo!
Nate, love your work and presentation style. I had to lay out my four batteries in a way similar to how you had to in this video. I found the “halfway” approach to parallel wiring described in the Victron Wiring Unlimited document to make the wiring easier/more uniform.
Neat! Glad you found what works for your setup.
Another great video. Thanks for all the great information!
This was an outstanding video. Informative would be an understatement.
You have to be the smartest guy I have ever watched! Newly subscribed. I watched your van install first, but am likely to apply this to a towable. Do you have a video to include connections for alternator charging from the tow vehicle or would this not be recommended? PS, I see your future videos addressing possible charging of toatally electric tow vehicles (i.e., Ford Lightning, Rivian trucks) from camper trailer or 5th wheel solar panels. Thanks for sharing all of your knowledge.
When connecting the battery monitor cable from the Victron BMV-712 to the (+) busbar on the Lynx Distributor, what do you do with all the extra wire? Do you leave it folded and tuck it into the Lynx Distributor? Thanks for the help.
Yeah, either tuck it in there, zip tie it up and out of the way, or you can always butt splice it to be shorter: amzn.to/3pMnV5Y
Outstanding content as usual. Thanks Nate!
Hey Bill Lawrence, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
You are doing an awesome job at these videos! Thank you for all the great info. Excellent work!
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Brilliant!! The only thing missing is where I can apply for a loan for this amazing tech!
I like your reply! I have a credit card that didn't have much of a balance on it, so I started ordering parts and pieces over the internet (without worrying about funds), to build a quality Solar Power Generation system, much like the one Nate did here. By the time I was done, my balance on my Credit card was approximately $15,000.00. However, it was great fun, and it kept me out of the Bars at night!
😂😂 good point
Haha, right? Glad it helped. (sorry I can't help on the loan. lolol)
Just wanted to thank you, you’ve been a Big Help
Tampa Florida check in love your channel trying to learn
Great view with clear and concise explanation of all the aspects of the installation. 👍
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Hi Nate, This information is very useful and one of a kind in that all of the information is in one place! I have built several simple off grid systems but my current build is the most complex and is using the Victron multiplus charger inverter, Victron MPPT charge controller and BMV 712. I have everything wired up, however am having a hard time finding clear instructions for programing the multiplus and and charge controller for the Battle Born Batteries. I haven't powered up the system and was hoping you could point me in the direction of programing tutorials. Thanks for all the work that goes into these videos and tutorials, purchased on of the diagrams for my current system. Thanks!
Very good work. Than you for your efforts. Wishing you good health and much success in all your endeavours.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Really liked this one, my set up will be very similar. Thank you 🙏
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
holy cow you guys did a great job on everything your doing , just excellent i will be watching this soon waiting on my batteries and panel and such , this is super great!
What's a good way to figuring out how much electricity you use per day / how much power you'll end up needing? We're a rock band so will most likely be using recording equipment and such inside, so having a good amount of power is probably a necessity!
Sure! Here's a tutorial for that: ua-cam.com/video/a406IxiU-Xg/v-deo.html
Hey Nate, so thankful for your resources you provide. Definitely gonna pick up that van shirt as I just got one! Fiancé and I are looking to start our electrical system soon so your videos will be a huge help. Also you must play a little WOW there with that little Leeroy Easter Egg. Just wondering Horde or Alliance? Thanks again Nate!
Great vid. Detailed and I will need to watch again 😀
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
What a fantastic resource. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
I am setting up a solar system in my old rv 1993 fleetwood. I will be running a 48v battery system and was wondering what the typical amp draw is on the 12v side of the rv system. The victron 48v to 12v converter is a $100 difference between 20amp and 30amp. Is 20amp sufficient for a basic rv 12v system or would I need the 30 amp.
Such a great video walking through this setup! We're ALMOST to this phase in our build! Just wired the 110V panel to outlets and getting ready to build our battery bank rack. Thanks so much for making this vid! Love how you have "chapters" in this! Will definitely make going back to certain sections of the video, easier.
- Brian + Erin
Currently converting an old school bus into our tiny home on wheels
Super cool! I think this will help out quite a bit! You're JUUUST about ready for the fun part! :D haha
@@EXPLORISTlife That's what I was thinking! LOL! We have everything you just showed except for the Lynx! Hadn't heard of that device until now... Is it ok to just use a multi fuse bus bar in it's place? It seems like the Lynx just monitors the fuses and shows if one goes bad? Or am I missing something?
Thanks so much for commenting back! We Erin and I really appreciate it!
- Brian
The Lynx Distributor is essentially 2 busbars ( a positive and a negative) and 4 high-current fuse holders wrapped up into one nice neat package with a protective cover. I was a proponent of individual busbars and indivudual fuse holders for the longest time, then even making my own busbars. But for the money, the Lynx Distributor is only a little more expensive, but can be installed in a MUCH smaller area and will have fewer connections which means less points of potential failure as well as decreased "DC Ripple" which will make components last longer (mainly the Inverter/Charger). I can't think of a reason to not use the Lynx Distributor.
@@EXPLORISTlife That helped me understand it a lot better! I was just scratching my head trying to see what was different other than the monitoring capability, but it makes sense now :) We had a little victory of properly wiring some three-way switches the other day... Now this is a bit more intensive! LOL! But your video explained it so well! We appreciate you taking the time to do this! - B+E
3 way switches are honestly pretty tricky. It took quite a bit of diagramming to get those to work the first time around. Andy has like 4 different 3 way switches in this build. haha
Victron has VE.Can resistive tank sender adapter have you used them to monitor levels in RV freshwater, grey water and black water tanks. The standard sensors seem to be very inaccurate after a short period of time
I've watched all your videos and took notes to help me to collect and save what I need to do, I've watched this one a few times, I don't know if I somehow missed it or it went over my head 😂 and I am pretty positive that I understand how to do my wiring for my solar system I will be putting into my diy mini travel trailer. But I'm slightly confused about the set up that will combine with shore power and hooking up power outlets and a fridge.
Do I or do I not use 10/3 romax wiring from a fuse box through my build and into the power outlets I need for my refrigerator, tv and other household appliances?
Or do I only use that wiring to go from my shore power inlet to the fuse box blocks and then connect 12v wiring from everything to the power outlets? 🤔
I'm ready to start my installation process but stuck at this
What did you ever figure out?
@@stevenmullins9799 I have not been able to really continue on and figure it out yet...so much going on around here that I had to set it all aside until another day. But I'm still wondering and waiting for the answer.
Argh, Confused again. At 19:05 in your video you're installing a 150Amp fuse to protect MTTP. I was going to get a 50 Amp for a 50AmpMPPT. My Solar array pegs out at 52Amps. What am I missing here? Oh and the coach has a standard 30 Amp service breaker. Will I need to upgrade this if I swap out (2)FL Acid for (2) SOK206Ah Lithiums?
I have to say I did like the Lynx distribution box with built in fuses; I've always used individual fuse holders on the DC positive to each device, which makes for additional crimping of short cables and more space used. One issue I had was with the paralleling of the two string of solar panels, which seems like it could be a problem in partial shade. I don't know about the specific solar charge controller you used, but Victron does make these with two mc4 channels, so you can attach each serial string to their own input.
The way we did it with the branch connectors vs the Charge Controller with the MC4 connectors would have operated in nearly the exact same fashion.
Great video! Very informative and helpful!
Hey @robertjohnson957, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
I really enjoyed this video great information. You have me thinking about trying to do this. This was much first time watching one of your videos. My only input would be to work in focus that made the video a bit rough. Thanks
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Great stuff! I don’t have a torque wrench, how vital is having the published torque on each nut in the charge controller etc...?
As an educator... it would be irresponsible of me to say that a manufacturers recommendation 'doesn't matter', so thats up to you on how many corners you want to cut.
Love the video and in the midst of my own Airstream battery and inverter upgrade. Question about the current system in my 2020 Flying Cloud... there is a 12VDC Panel assembly (gray box with CAUTION on it). I imagine this is the equivalent to the Lynx distributor to some degree - though it also seems to power all of the auxillary dc components such as Break Away switch, seven way plug, stabilizer jack, E-brakes and power brakes, and LP detector. Additionally, the battery and converter come in and it seems to have the shunt with the solar attached to measure inflow and outflow to the batteries. It seems most of this could exist in the lynx distributor, but that would mean migrating all of these auxiliary wires over to the DC distribution panel (I imagine). I guess my thought is to leave it intact and connect it to the lynx distributor but reduces any redundancy. I have search for answers already but have found little on how this little gray box fits into the equation. My airstream is in pretty good condition, so I want to be as minimally invasive as possible to run new wiring throughout.
So I think this is where the DC comes in from several sources - the tow vehicle via 7 Way pin, the converter (factory is a Intelli-power 9100 model PD9160AL, and the two marine batteries, and the solar). It feeds the power to the critical functions while on the move, but also facilitates battery charging while on the move, from shore power, and solar (there was a factory shunt in this enclosure). I just stripped out the connections to the old battery and the shunt (solar feed disconnected too). When I went to remove the converter connection (converter is actively receiving power for heat and light), the entire airstream lights went out despite the converter feeding directly into the DC distribution panel - not sure why this was the case. I imagine I will eventually have to move this connection through the Lynx distributor (will be multiplus II to Lynx) with a connection back to this VDC Panel Assembly as these key components will need power from the batteries while on the move. I imagine the charge portion coming off the tow vehicle should route through the Orion-Tr Smart isolated DC/DC charger.
The Lynx Distributor has a circuit board in it. Why? What's the purpose? It doesn't seem to just be a bus bar. Great video. Very well explained.
In the event of a blown fuse, it can light up a light on the cover to indicate a blown fuse and when paired with the Lynx Shunt and a GX Device like the Victron Cerbo GX, can provide some addiitonal monitoring/features.
@@EXPLORISTlife I see you're not using the Lynx Shunt. Would the cheaper Lynx Power In do the same job as the Lynx Distributer when not using the Lynx Shunt? Also I wish Victron made a mirror image model of the Lynx DC Distribution System. My battery bank will sit to the right of my buss bars. Right side connection to the Lynx Power In would have a cleaner look and use shorter battery cables
This is a fantastic install video, very informative, very well produced, thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.
No problem. Happy to help!
In the time line 34:58 I see that Andy's camper is 30amp shoe power. My DIY restoration( 1969 Holiday Rambler travel trailer) is in fact gonna be upgraded too 50amp. My question is ...... Will I need two inverter/converters, or is there a 50amp inverter
Beautiful Installation!
Hey MR. P, Thanks so much! Cheers!
I like the way you explained
What considerations are explored to securing the heavier objects in case of moving accident. A soup can flying from the back of the build at 20 Mike’s an hour can be deadly. Batteries could crush.
Everything is bolted to the shell/frame of the camper; so it's solid... but it's not crash proof or anything.
@@EXPLORISTlife yeah it’s just a risk you take. In an ocean going sailboat, one has to design for movements in all axis. There are some wonderful books that show solutions. I often think of sailing vessels to guide me on making the best out of small spaces. They have been at this sort of thing for years and we can learn so much from the design of smaller ocean going vessels in the 32’ or so range.
Excellent video. Watched several. Best yet. Thanks for the great job. I will be using this to do mine.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Is that "shunt"required due no Bluetooth monitoring ? Also, no sparks when inverter sees battery HOT ! Caps must have been pre-charged ?
The shunt provides the Bluetooth monitoring.
There was no sparks since we used a switch instead of just connecting the wires.
Fantastic veideo,this is how to video's should be made,keep up the good work,stay safe from the uk
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
@@EXPLORISTlife wouldn't miss it
Question about fuse size on lynx distributor for the DC distribution panel. Why the 100amp mega fuse? What determines the fuse size? I don’t see anything in the manual regarding what size fuse should be used? And, why does it need a fuse when it is made up of blade fuses? Thanks for the help.