What a great tip, Brian. The most elegant DIY projects aren't always the most involved, but those that provide a professional result for less money. And this is one of the best of all, where the end result actually exceeds the quality of a factory-built part by customizing the cable length for each application. Clean, easy and better than the more expensive option. Perfect!
THANK YOU! I followed your instructions and every cable came out perfect. I had been nervous about making my own MC4 cables after reading the learning curve in making good crimps. A $15 MC4 crimp tool (looks similar to the one you used in the video), plus your instructions made even the very first crimp come out nice and tight. Was cheaper to make my own cables, even after buying a cheapo crimp tool, than buying pre-made cables that would be too long anyways. Really nice to be able to cut the cables the exact length, making for a much tidier and cleaner-looking install.
Note that the weather proofing insert between connector body and connector nut has a preferred orientation i.e. the soft rubber goes toward the body side of the connector not the nut. Also it needs to be rotated on the cable while applying light pressure against the body until the correct alignment occurs and seal drops into correct position. The connector nut can now be tightened knowing the seal will expand correctly against cable and body completing the weather proof seal. Best video on this I've seen.
@@RVwithTito HOW WELL IS YOUR SOLAR PANELS HOLDING UP? I just found some flat roll of these solar panels on CL and they seem easy to put on... just glue??? ??? ???
I don't often comment....but you are a good presenter! Well done. I am presently hooking up a new solar panels at our cottage and had not worked with MC4 connectors before. NOW I KNOW!
Thank you Tito for taking the time to make this video and burning through some mc4 materials in the process. I've just purchased my first set of panels and plan to make my own cable runs just as you've demonstrated. Thanks!
I think this is the first time I have ever seen a video with more than 20 thumbs up without a single thumbs down. Thank you! This was informative and also a very well made video.
What a great backdrop for your videos! It's hard to ignore all that beautiful scenery behind you and pay attention to what you are demonstrating :-) I always enjoy your videos and learn a lot. Thanks
I watched this video at the perfect time. I was just about to order solar cables to install panels on the roof of my van. I will just order the wire and connectors and make my own so they are custom sized. Thanks for making this look so easy.
Those people who were crimping against the cable sleeve and not the inner (which causes the coupling to sit too far down in the housing), are very thankful for this video. Not me of course, I always know exactly what I'm doing without reading any instructions...
Hi Brian, This video is great advice. Although you may need to buy a tool or two I have found you will save money in the long run. Thumbs up and happy travels, Lou
Great Video, may I suggest explaining that the Female metal connector goes into the plastic Male housing when assembled. And vise versa for the other side Thanks
Thanks , I finally re-made my connecting cables from alligator clips to MC-4 for my two 100 Watt Solar Panels on the patio . Your video helped ! And my one remaining operational Goal Zero 1000 Watt Yeti (out of three) was happy getting the increased input ! If you know someone that can help me ' wake-up ' the other two Goal Zero 1000 watt Yeti's . . . . (non-op / won't wake-up) would be so happy ! ! ! Thanks , take care , RH
hey, thanks for this video. it was good, you talked very well into the camera, and had very informative info. i had bought most of this stuff to do my own rooftop solar stuff ( and havn't got to the install yet) but needed a little more info. like you said , i need to do my own stuff to keep it all clean and overall save money. again the way you narrated into the camera was good compared to many other videos where everyone stalls a lot, no important info and says um a lot. good job thanks
Thanks for the video! Am I missing the 2 wire thing? Sorry Newbs here. I didn't see any positive negative option with your wiring? It looks like only 1 wire that you connected?
Looks good. Two things (I have seen others do this): Soldering the crimped connection point and using adhesive heat shrink over the connector and wire when done. May have to use two different sizes of adhesive heat shrink tubing since the size difference of the MC4 connector and 10 AWG solar wire is wide. I did that with my 12-2 landscaping wire solar cables and they have weathered fine. Hope all is well guys. Nice looking video and backdrop! 🏜
@Wick Disaster How did you get "never solder anything" from "shouldn't solder crimps"? haha. If you solder crimps then the solder flows up the wire and reduces the flexibility. It will then be more likely to fail at that strand/solder junction. My understanding is that it is very bad practice.
Thanks so much Tito - I'm actually sitting in my Sprinter on Goodyear Lake in upper NY state following your directions - its working!!!!! Warmest regards Jennie
Darn you made that simple. I''m starting to put solar panels at my house and bought a bunch of MC-4's. Figured I'd try one to make sure I could do it and being a ham radio person, thought it would be like one of our ham cables. I've worked and worked and said a few cuss words, hope GOD forgives me. You made that so simple I'm ashamed to be called a ham. Thanks for such a great video, appreciate it..
great tip (i think): for my portable solar setup, mc4's were the bane of my existence, needing the tool to get them apart every time i tore down. i considered andersons and sae's, but then lightbulb idea: i took a utility knife and chopped off the locking prongs on the mc4's, so now i can easily push together and pull apart, while maintaining the waterproof and tight connection.
@Nunya- Do you leave cables affixed to your battery? I'm getting a portable setup (suitcase) and I'm trying to figure out the best way to do this so I'm not constantly pulling my battery tray out. Also what length of cable run is reasonable without losing much power through the cable.
Excellent video, clearly explained. It does, however, assume you understand what MC4 connectors are and how to distinguish M from F (somewhat counter-intuitive). It has motivated me to redo my RV solar connections and use MC4 connectors instead of my present inappropriate and non-waterproof powerpole connectors (done from ignorance!)
Hi, nice video. So I have a Bluetti AC200 max, 2000 watt. I want to build longer mc4 cable to reach out on the lawn. Should I use 10 or 12awg? What determines that?
Can you make a comment, or a video, about using this kit to make solar panel extensions? I've got a couple folding panels and portable power supply on the way and I want to make a 20-30' extension to go from the panels to the power supply. If I have a branch connector, I still need two cables to go to the panels right?
Hi Buddy... The solar panel test box u made... Have u got a video where u show what it is & how u made it..? Cuz I couldn't find it... I'd love 2 see more info on that... Thanks.
If I need to take the MC4 connectors off the end of my cable, and put it back on later, do I just unscrew it then later I screw it back on? Thx for your help!
Thank you for this video, and for showing closeups of the crimping tool in use. They have two videos on the Renogy site that are pretty awful and unclear!
Boom. That was a quick $100 to Amazon on the recommended wiring and tools. (I hope you get a commission off those links!) I'm happy to know that the job will be done right. And when it's time to relax and have some fun, there will be no worries about the solar infrastructure and wiring. This is my second install on a recently purchased RV with the components from the original installation and a few major upgrades to Battleborn and Victron. Buh bye Interstate and Morningstar. Yeah Baby!! Retirement is on the horizon......
Haha Boom! Yes I do make a small commission on those. Thanks! I've gone through the same transition and always have solar cable and the parts to make cables. 👍👍
Excellent video on making a MC4 connection. Thanks Brian :-) Is there a way to take out the pin again from the MC4 connector housing after it has been inserted? I crimped the wire too long inside and now it doesn't snug fit with a click!
Yes it's weatherproof. Check the wiresize and current rating first. If the wire gauge and insullation fits, then it should work. You might also consider 50A Anderson connectors.
Thanks! Yeah we really enjoyed it there. It seemed like a cool spot to shoot a video. The rest of the park was just so so, but we really enjoyed that campsite and climbing around on the rocks.
first watched this vid. 4 years ago and now i m ready to make my own connectors lol. I have a 300watt portable solar panel a victron 100/30 charge controller and 2 agm deep cycle batteries. so it is very simple, but they told me that i needed to install a breaker and a fuse and that just sent my head back spinning. do you have a video like that for one of each, do i need to buy a box to put one fuse? any suggestions, pictures or vids will be GREATELY appreciated.
After watching your video I purchased order mc4 connectors on eBay, I guess I got a really good deal, I bought 20 pairs that's 40 connectors the 20 pairs for only $12! I just received them in the mail a few days ago! I guess I suggest look on eBay for cheaper connectors because you said you got 5 pairs for $9 that's a lot of money on Amazon, just a suggestion check eBay if you're buying new connectors later,
Great video, helped me out! Is there any way you could make a video on you solar test box shown at the end of the video? If you already have, can you add a link in this video’s description? I can’t seem to find it. Thanks again. Love your channel!
I am having trouble finding the bulk solar cable. The link for the items needed to make the cables doesn't seems to be working. Could you put out that list again... or maybe just the link for the solar cable? very helpful video. thank you
Great vid! thanks for sharing. I'm currently working on a solar set up. I need about 100cm outside cable, then 500cm inside to the controller, I was thinking to use 2.5 speaker cable for inside . What connectors would you recommend , they dont have to be waterproof as that part would be inside.
Brian you have used your flexiable panels for over a year now. If you had to do it over would you still consider flex panels over hard panels? What do you see as a pro or con with those panels? I am considering those panels for our RV.
Yes I have had great results from my flex panels and would still recommend them. The primary benefits in my view are their super light weight, high efficiency, low profile look, and they provide unobstructed access to the roof.
Tito, this was very helpful, but I gotta question..do you recommend using this technique on existing cables that are attached to the solar panel? More specifically, we have the suitcase-type 100W solar panels (with built-in charge controller and alligator clips) and want to lengthen the cable by 10' and replace the clips with post connectors (excuse my lack of proper terminology, but I'm sure you understand) .. can this be done?
Where's your vid with the detail of the Test Box at 7:22 in the above vid ? U need 2 show detail of how you put the connectors into the box and the input / output sections along with the voltage and current indicators or whatever else U have configured in the box, along with where one gets this box and is it waterproof and so on. Thx.
any idea if #10 tip is different than #8? PV commercial project Im using #8 for conduit fill, ampacity- but the inverter takes only #10 DC input. Perhaps need to splice to #10? thanks!
Hi Brian, I have one of these kits. My question is have you ever used Weather Pack connectors? If so, do you think you could use these crimpers for them? I don't want to buy another tool if I don't need to. Thanks, Phil
First, I see your wire connector is a single conductor? Does nt the panel output need both a positive and negative ? Also, how would I tie 8-10 panels together to connect to an inverter? A parallel circuit?
Hi Brian, great video with good tips as always. I noticed you have painted your cables white up top. I live in Arizona where the sun does great damage and am worried about cables getting brittle over time which can cause problems. I imagine the old rattle can method would only flake away, even with a robust paint formula. I have also seen where scoring the insulation for adhesion, then priming and painting can protect from UV light. Can you recommend a solution? Thanks!
Yes. It does chip and flake off over time. I have since wrapped all of my cables with flex tubing. I'm trying the Rustoleum Appliance Paint now when I paint stuff white on the roof. We'll see how that holds up.
It does matter. One is a male and the other a female. I think the male metal piece goes into the female housing. Then the female metal piece goes into the male housing. If you mess it up, you'll know...and learn...and won't do it again :)
Thanks for this informative video! Are y branch connectors universal?. I just got my y branch connectors and for some reason the clip on the postive connector on my solar panels wont engage with the y branch.
The distance depends on the type/gauge of your cable and max current. Search Google for solar voltage drop calculator and plug in the numbers. Typical solar cable is either #10 or #12 AWG copper. Hope that helps.
Is it possible to remove / reuse the connectors? If not, can you buy just the little metal parts and re-use the plastic connectors? (Complete newbie here, just curious)
Don't twist the connector when tightening the water proof gland you are twisting the connector inside. Tighten the gland on the wire insulation so you get a compression of the rubber seal without twisting the wire.
Just saw this in 2023. You're knowledge time and helpfulness lives on!
Great. Thanks! Glad it's still helpful. Just made a bunch the other day :)
My husband and I just made several of these connectors thanks to your great video. Thanks.
What a great tip, Brian. The most elegant DIY projects aren't always the most involved, but those that provide a professional result for less money. And this is one of the best of all, where the end result actually exceeds the quality of a factory-built part by customizing the cable length for each application. Clean, easy and better than the more expensive option. Perfect!
THANK YOU! I followed your instructions and every cable came out perfect. I had been nervous about making my own MC4 cables after reading the learning curve in making good crimps. A $15 MC4 crimp tool (looks similar to the one you used in the video), plus your instructions made even the very first crimp come out nice and tight. Was cheaper to make my own cables, even after buying a cheapo crimp tool, than buying pre-made cables that would be too long anyways. Really nice to be able to cut the cables the exact length, making for a much tidier and cleaner-looking install.
That's great! Nice job. Now you'll always just buy bulk cable. I just made a few the other day too.
LOVE the Simplicity of your teaching videos! Not too fast, not too slow. Keep up the good work!
Note that the weather proofing insert between connector body and connector nut has a preferred orientation i.e. the soft rubber goes toward the body side of the connector not the nut. Also it needs to be rotated on the cable while applying light pressure against the body until the correct alignment occurs and seal drops into correct position. The connector nut can now be tightened knowing the seal will expand correctly against cable and body completing the weather proof seal. Best video on this I've seen.
Thanks for the additional info!
@@RVwithTito HOW WELL IS YOUR SOLAR PANELS HOLDING UP?
I just found some flat roll of these solar panels on CL and they seem easy to put on... just glue??? ??? ???
I just stumbled across your videos while looking into solar vids and you're so easy to understand, i feel like i've struck gold
Glad you found the channel. Welcome!
I don't often comment....but you are a good presenter! Well done. I am presently hooking up a new solar panels at our cottage and had not worked with MC4 connectors before. NOW I KNOW!
Thank you Tito for taking the time to make this video and burning through some mc4 materials in the process. I've just purchased my first set of panels and plan to make my own cable runs just as you've demonstrated. Thanks!
I think this is the first time I have ever seen a video with more than 20 thumbs up without a single thumbs down. Thank you! This was informative and also a very well made video.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it 👍👍
What a great backdrop for your videos! It's hard to ignore all that beautiful scenery behind you and pay attention to what you are demonstrating :-) I always enjoy your videos and learn a lot. Thanks
Thanks for the feedback. Sorry for the distraction :)
Hahaha! I love it when you say that this is great “if you want to create your own Solar System”. Really great video. Thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it!
This is exactly what I did. Way cheaper to make your own and it looks better as well. Great Job!
-Thomas
Yup. Once you have the parts and tools on hand, then it's easy to just make what you need.
Hi Brian. You make the most useful and technically competent RV videos on UA-cam. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much Joe. You are too kind.
I watched this video at the perfect time. I was just about to order solar cables to install panels on the roof of my van. I will just order the wire and connectors and make my own so they are custom sized. Thanks for making this look so easy.
Put the cap part on before you crimp it makes a "slightly" easier job.
Thanks for the great video.
You are a natural teacher! I look forward to your videos
Was looking for this explanation ahead of purchasing the bits n bobs just to be sure, great quality and beautiful backdrop for a video.
Glad it was helpful!
Those people who were crimping against the cable sleeve and not the inner (which causes the coupling to sit too far down in the housing), are very thankful for this video. Not me of course, I always know exactly what I'm doing without reading any instructions...
Great job explaining that... very Professional. Thank you.
You're welcome!
Thanks from the UK, very helpful.... it's appreciated.
Glad it helped.
Hi Brian, This video is great advice. Although you may need to buy a tool or two I have found you will save money in the long run. Thumbs up and happy travels, Lou
+RV Habit Thanks Lou!
Great Video, may I suggest explaining that the Female metal connector goes into the plastic Male housing when assembled. And vise versa for the other side
Thanks
Thanks for clearing my confusion.
Tito, this was very helpful. I am a neophyte with solar panels but plan to help install them on my MH. Thank you.
Glad it helped you out.
I'd never have tried without this great video. Thanks! AND, what a great campsite!
Thanks Bob. It's pretty simple as you've seen.
Thanks , I finally re-made my connecting cables from alligator clips to MC-4 for my two 100 Watt Solar Panels on the patio . Your video helped ! And my one remaining operational Goal Zero 1000 Watt Yeti (out of three) was happy getting the increased input ! If you know someone that can help me ' wake-up ' the other two Goal Zero 1000 watt Yeti's . . . . (non-op / won't wake-up) would be so happy ! ! !
Thanks , take care , RH
Great job 👍👍
hey, thanks for this video. it was good, you talked very well into the camera, and had very informative info. i had bought most of this stuff to do my own rooftop solar stuff ( and havn't got to the install yet) but needed a little more info. like you said , i need to do my own stuff to keep it all clean and overall save money. again the way you narrated into the camera was good compared to many other videos where everyone stalls a lot, no important info and says um a lot. good job thanks
Thanks for the great feedback. I'm glad you found the info helpful. Good luck with your project!
Thanks for the video! Am I missing the 2 wire thing? Sorry Newbs here. I didn't see any positive negative option with your wiring? It looks like only 1 wire that you connected?
Looks good. Two things (I have seen others do this): Soldering the crimped connection point and using adhesive heat shrink over the connector and wire when done. May have to use two different sizes of adhesive heat shrink tubing since the size difference of the MC4 connector and 10 AWG solar wire is wide. I did that with my 12-2 landscaping wire solar cables and they have weathered fine. Hope all is well guys. Nice looking video and backdrop! 🏜
Thanks for the suggestions Chris.
Agreed Chris. I usually solder all crimp connections if feasible to protect against corrosion, and always choose heat shrink over electrical tape.
You shouldn't solder crimps as this can cause failure in the connection.
@Wick Disaster How did you get "never solder anything" from "shouldn't solder crimps"? haha. If you solder crimps then the solder flows up the wire and reduces the flexibility. It will then be more likely to fail at that strand/solder junction. My understanding is that it is very bad practice.
@Wick Disaster Are you even replying to my comment? Because what you're literally saying makes no sense..
Thanks so much Tito - I'm actually sitting in my Sprinter on Goodyear Lake in upper NY state following your directions - its working!!!!! Warmest regards Jennie
Awesome! Good luck.
We're definitely thinking of doing solar on our new old RV. Your videos are a great help!
I would love for you to show how you made the tester box. Getting ready to install my Solar Panels in the next couple months.
I would love to see that as well.
Also me 🙏🙏♥️
Same with me.
I'd would like to see it as well
Darn you made that simple. I''m starting to put solar panels at my house and bought a bunch of MC-4's. Figured I'd try one to make sure I could do it and being a ham radio person, thought it would be like one of our ham cables. I've worked and worked and said a few cuss words, hope GOD forgives me. You made that so simple I'm ashamed to be called a ham. Thanks for such a great video, appreciate it..
No worries. I won't out you to the Am Radio peeps. Glad to help :)
great tip (i think): for my portable solar setup, mc4's were the bane of my existence, needing the tool to get them apart every time i tore down. i considered andersons and sae's, but then lightbulb idea: i took a utility knife and chopped off the locking prongs on the mc4's, so now i can easily push together and pull apart, while maintaining the waterproof and tight connection.
That's one solution :)
@Nunya- Do you leave cables affixed to your battery? I'm getting a portable setup (suitcase) and I'm trying to figure out the best way to do this so I'm not constantly pulling my battery tray out. Also what length of cable run is reasonable without losing much power through the cable.
Very helpful video. I'm just getting started with a modest solar set and your video's have been great!
That's great to hear. Good luck with your projects.
Another great, no nonsense, very useful how to video from you Tito. Thanks
Thanks for your video. I'm going to change my panels from Series to Parallel and need to make some jumpers. Your way is the most efficient!!
Pretty easy to make these. Good luck.
thank you sir, for sharing this very informative video. now I know how to make one...Thanks be to God.
Great video for me, as I'm wiring up my rig for solar. I had no idea how to do that! Thanks!
+Steve Knobler Pretty easy with the right crimper.
Crisp clear video and very instructive steps!
Glad it helped. Thanks for the feedback.
Excellent video, clearly explained. It does, however, assume you understand what MC4 connectors are and how to distinguish M from F (somewhat counter-intuitive). It has motivated me to redo my RV solar connections and use MC4 connectors instead of my present inappropriate and non-waterproof powerpole connectors (done from ignorance!)
I thought some discussion of M and F was in order also.
Fantastic. You answered all my questions. I have old panels with c3s, so putting on mc4s today.
Great. Glad it helped
Hi, nice video. So I have a Bluetti AC200 max, 2000 watt. I want to build longer mc4 cable to reach out on the lawn. Should I use 10 or 12awg? What determines that?
For a longer run I'd go with #10.
I always learn something from your channel. Keep sharing. Thank you.
Thanks Joe. Glad to share.
Can you make a comment, or a video, about using this kit to make solar panel extensions? I've got a couple folding panels and portable power supply on the way and I want to make a 20-30' extension to go from the panels to the power supply. If I have a branch connector, I still need two cables to go to the panels right?
Hi Buddy...
The solar panel test box u made...
Have u got a video where u show what it is & how u made it..?
Cuz I couldn't find it... I'd love 2 see more info on that...
Thanks.
Excellent tip! I make my own Ethernet cables for the same reason.
Thanks! I do the same with my CAT5.
Great video! Lots of close up camera shots... thanks.
Thanks Brian.
If I need to take the MC4 connectors off the end of my cable, and put it back on later, do I just unscrew it then later I screw it back on? Thx for your help!
No. You'll have to cut it off and install a new one.
Thank you for this video, and for showing closeups of the crimping tool in use. They have two videos on the Renogy site that are pretty awful and unclear!
You're welcome. Glad to hear it helped.
Those solar panel connector on the box are the same type of the ones on the cables or they are specific one? Thank you!
Boom. That was a quick $100 to Amazon on the recommended wiring and tools. (I hope you get a commission off those links!) I'm happy to know that the job will be done right. And when it's time to relax and have some fun, there will be no worries about the solar infrastructure and wiring. This is my second install on a recently purchased RV with the components from the original installation and a few major upgrades to Battleborn and Victron. Buh bye Interstate and Morningstar. Yeah Baby!! Retirement is on the horizon......
Haha Boom! Yes I do make a small commission on those. Thanks! I've gone through the same transition and always have solar cable and the parts to make cables. 👍👍
Nice and simple. I am gonna make my own cables. Keep it up
Thanks, will do!
Excellent short presentation
Excellent video on making a MC4 connection. Thanks Brian :-) Is there a way to take out the pin again from the MC4 connector housing after it has been inserted? I crimped the wire too long inside and now it doesn't snug fit with a click!
Best location for a cable assembly video ever :)
Hi, is there a video of what to do with cables and connectors on top of an RV? I'm new to this and I'm gonna add another 100W panel.
Is the solar connector also applicable for automotive wirings? Or motorcycle?.. and if yes, is it weather proof also?
Yes it's weatherproof. Check the wiresize and current rating first. If the wire gauge and insullation fits, then it should work. You might also consider 50A Anderson connectors.
Another great video and great timing as I am about to do the same with our RV but on a smaller scale.
Terrific info Brian and that looks like an amazing campground!
Thanks! Yeah we really enjoyed it there. It seemed like a cool spot to shoot a video. The rest of the park was just so so, but we really enjoyed that campsite and climbing around on the rocks.
first watched this vid. 4 years ago and now i m ready to make my own connectors lol. I have a 300watt portable solar panel a victron 100/30 charge controller and 2 agm deep cycle batteries. so it is very simple, but they told me that i needed to install a breaker and a fuse and that just sent my head back spinning. do you have a video like that for one of each, do i need to buy a box to put one fuse? any suggestions, pictures or vids will be GREATELY appreciated.
After watching your video I purchased order mc4 connectors on eBay, I guess I got a really good deal, I bought 20 pairs that's 40 connectors the 20 pairs for only $12! I just received them in the mail a few days ago! I guess I suggest look on eBay for cheaper connectors because you said you got 5 pairs for $9 that's a lot of money on Amazon, just a suggestion check eBay if you're buying new connectors later,
Sounds like a pretty good deal. Thanks!
Great video, helped me out! Is there any way you could make a video on you solar test box shown at the end of the video? If you already have, can you add a link in this video’s description? I can’t seem to find it. Thanks again. Love your channel!
Great video. Very good explained. I like more information about the box you use to test panels. Thanks.
I am having trouble finding the bulk solar cable. The link for the items needed to make the cables doesn't seems to be working. Could you put out that list again... or maybe just the link for the solar cable? very helpful video. thank you
Great vid! thanks for sharing. I'm currently working on a solar set up. I need about 100cm outside cable, then 500cm inside to the controller, I was thinking to use 2.5 speaker cable for inside . What connectors would you recommend , they dont have to be waterproof as that part would be inside.
Brian you have used your flexiable panels for over a year now. If you had to do it over would you still consider flex panels over hard panels? What do you see as a pro or con with those panels? I am considering those panels for our RV.
Yes I have had great results from my flex panels and would still recommend them. The primary benefits in my view are their super light weight, high efficiency, low profile look, and they provide unobstructed access to the roof.
Tito, this was very helpful, but I gotta question..do you recommend using this technique on existing cables that are attached to the solar panel? More specifically, we have the suitcase-type 100W solar panels (with built-in charge controller and alligator clips) and want to lengthen the cable by 10' and replace the clips with post connectors (excuse my lack of proper terminology, but I'm sure you understand) .. can this be done?
Absolutely can be done. You don't even need to use MC4. SAE and Anderson connectors are also a popular option.
Very clean job. Thanks for the demonstration. Keep Having Fun.
Thanks for this video. If you are using a protective cover over the MC4 cables, please let us know what that is?
Where's your vid with the detail of the Test Box at 7:22 in the above vid ?
U need 2 show detail of how you put the connectors into the box and the input / output sections along with the voltage and current indicators or whatever else U have configured in the box, along with where one gets this box and is it waterproof and so on. Thx.
is it ik to remove the little red rubber ring on a mc4 connecter to make it snap in better?
any idea if #10 tip is different than #8? PV commercial project Im using #8 for conduit fill, ampacity- but the inverter takes only #10 DC input. Perhaps need to splice to #10? thanks!
Great instructional video. Thanks!
You're welcome. Pretty simple isn't it?
DID YOU MAKE THAT TEST BOX TOO? IS THERE A PREMADE ONE THAT DOES THE SAME THING BECAUSE I GOT 10 SOLAR PANELS TO TEST THAT I WAS GIFTED.
I show you how to test solar panels in the beginning of this video. ua-cam.com/video/uvMYv7afUWM/v-deo.html Good luck!
Wow 😮 Thank you Tito that’s what I’m going to do when I Upgrade my system next month. Super helpful...
Added to my RV folder for future reference. Awesome video.
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks.
Hi Brian,
I have one of these kits. My question is have you ever used Weather Pack connectors? If so, do you think you could use these crimpers for them? I don't want to buy another tool if I don't need to. Thanks,
Phil
Superb and simple presentation.
First, I see your wire connector is a single conductor? Does nt the panel output need both a positive and negative ? Also, how would I tie 8-10 panels together to connect to an inverter? A parallel circuit?
Exactly the info I was looking for. Thanks!
You bet!
Very valuable demo! Thank you!
You're welcome!
I REALLY want to know more about your Tester Box!
Hi Brian, great video with good tips as always. I noticed you have painted your cables white up top. I live in Arizona where the sun does great damage and am worried about cables getting brittle over time which can cause problems. I imagine the old rattle can method would only flake away, even with a robust paint formula. I have also seen where scoring the insulation for adhesion, then priming and painting can protect from UV light. Can you recommend a solution? Thanks!
Yes. It does chip and flake off over time. I have since wrapped all of my cables with flex tubing. I'm trying the Rustoleum Appliance Paint now when I paint stuff white on the roof. We'll see how that holds up.
I learned things I didn't know!
Thanks!
are all the metal pieces the same or how do you determine what one goes where or does it matter?
It does matter. One is a male and the other a female. I think the male metal piece goes into the female housing. Then the female metal piece goes into the male housing. If you mess it up, you'll know...and learn...and won't do it again :)
RVwithTito so of the male and female metal parts, which one is smaller of the two?
Thanks for this informative video!
Are y branch connectors universal?. I just got my y branch connectors and for some reason the clip on the postive connector on my solar panels wont engage with the y branch.
Sometimes they are a little off if you mix/match manufacturers.
Bro... I got, 3 380w panels so what's the size of wire we need to connect them both to inverter ?
Very informative video I learned a lot but I'm looking for how many feet can you have a solar panel from your battery that is charging
The distance depends on the type/gauge of your cable and max current. Search Google for solar voltage drop calculator and plug in the numbers. Typical solar cable is either #10 or #12 AWG copper. Hope that helps.
Nice clear instructions, thanks for sharing.
Glad it was helpful!
Have you tried adding a bit of solder?
No need. The crimp is solid if you do it right.
Links please, where to buy this tools , Thank you
Merry Christmas to You and Yours.
+Hoss Thank you so much for the wishes. Merry Christmas to you too!
thank you-is 12 gauge solar panel rv cable good enough for a 190 watt solar panel to the roof insert down -or should it be 10 gauge?
I always use 10 gauge when possible for longer runs.
Is it possible to remove / reuse the connectors? If not, can you buy just the little metal parts and re-use the plastic connectors? (Complete newbie here, just curious)
You'd probably damage the connector if you try to reuse it. So no. I typically cut them off and add a new one.
Can you confirm the female plug with the red ring goes on the positive output from a solar panel?
Don't twist the connector when tightening the water proof gland you are twisting the connector inside. Tighten the gland on the wire insulation so you get a compression of the rubber seal without twisting the wire.
BRIAN, DO YOU KNOW IF THE CABLE LISTED ON AMAZON IS UL RATED PURE COPPER AS IT DOES NOT SAY IN THE DISCRIPTION AND HAS IT WORKED ALRIGHT FOR YOU?
Thanks for another great how to video!
Glad you liked it. Hope you give it a try.