trflgrl
Active Member
- Jun 23, 2014
- 982
- Boat Info
- 1989 Sundancer 300
- Engines
- Twin 350 Merc/Alpha 1 Gen 1; Quicksilver 4.0 gen
Are your specs upthread somewhere on what panels and controller you're using? (I've been having issues searching the thread no matter what I'm looking for; probably user error!) I gave up trying to have my generator repaired, and am betting a solar solution will be less expensive than replacing it. I'm sure First Mate would just love to have a project this year, too.... Truly, though, if it means we can use the fridge all weekend, I know he'll be all for it.The solar is nothing special. I ran two wires through the arch and ran them out through an old hole where a spotlight used to sit on top. It's been missing for years! The other end terminated on the side panel where I mounted the solar charge controller. I ran two wires down to the batteries and put the positive on one and the negative on the other. That way it charges both house batteries. As I mentioned before, I tend to run my switch in the "Both" position. When we stop somewhere, I can mount the flexible panels up on top of the bimini. Last year I just tied the two panels together and tied them to the windshield wipers and the other end to the arch. Wyrman suggested some magnets, so I bought some rare earth magnets that should hold it down and eliminate the ropes. The 200-watt panel was enough to recharge each day by around noon or so. I would turn up the fridge to make some ice in the afternoon when I had excess power! I typically run lights at night, the fridge on 12v, water pump, radio and GPS during a 24 hour cycle. This year, I may be running an all mode ham radio off that setup as well. Shouldn't be much of a problem!
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