Roofrack for my van

[Texjbird]

I like flexible panels.  They are also more aerodynamic as they are not up in the wind like mini sails.

Thanks for reminding me that there is such a thing as flexible solar panels.

I am already pretty sure that the Safari  will not be big enough for Q and I to live in for any great length of time.  Most of my "build" will be utilizing items I already have with the exceptions being stuff I've bought or will buy that I've not felt a need for until now.  Things like my generator, screen room, tent. 

The investment in a solar system that I can move easily from one vehicle to another is something I'd like to have.  Then there is the cost of a solar system and batterys to be bought and installed to be considered.  The only knowledge I have about solar is what I've learned in the last 3ys since I've been active on the internet at home.   To me it's learning a new language and how to build a solar system and use a 12 volt system with the new language while I'm learning it.  Most of it I don't understand so I'm glad to know and get advice from others that do have the knowledge and experience that I'm lacking.

Have you posted anywhere about your solar system using the flexible panels?

JewellAnn

[B and C]

OK. I guess it might be kosher to cross post to that "other" forum.

https://www.cheaprvliving.com/forums/sho...?tid=15681

This details my 400 watt system. I like it the way I installed it because it gives me the best of both worlds; permanent and portable.

[tx2sturgis]

Newer flexible panels are made with an ETFE top layer, a more durable covering than the older PET covering.

I have not used one, but they are rated for longer life in the real world.

https://suntechsolar.ca/faq/advantages-e...et-panels/

[TrainChaser]

If you use Velcro to hold the panels on, be sure to buy the highest-quality Velcro that you can find. The higher price is insurance. And, if you have to remove the velcroed panels, attach loose (not attached to anything) pieces of matching Velcro to the attached pieces so the little gripper 'teeth' don't get filled up with debris.

[Snikwahjm]

I’m not that impressed with Velcro.

[B and C]

The industrial strength velcro has held up well on my van. This is not cheap stuff. Bought it at the big box hardware store (black). It is about 1 1/2" wide. Says industrial strength on the box. Seems like the roll was about 15' long.

Edit to add: This is good for sloped surfaces and flexible panels. Panel will be easier to remove than if VHB tape is used.

[TWIH]

I’m going to have to experiment with the velcro. While VHB tape is excellent at holding, how would you ever get that stuff off for any reason? Thats my concern with using it. Damn near permanent...

[Snikwahjm]

Use it to hold the Velcro and hope Velcro holds?

[Cammalu]

I think you can take it off with fishing line


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[TWIH]

OK.  I guess it might be kosher to cross post to that "other" forum.

https://www.cheaprvliving.com/forums/sho...?tid=15681

This details my 400 watt system.  I like it the way I installed it because it gives me the best of both worlds; permanent and portable.

As that was an older thread you posted/authored, what has been your “x months product review update” on all parts of your system? 

The “knock” on the earlier generation panels was longevity and solar wattage production. How have yours faired? What about the use of velcro and HDR’s longevity concerns?

The newest Renogy flex panels are supposedly re-engineered to prevent the failure points that plagued the older ones. I haven’t read too much about the new ones failing.

Please update us when possible.

Thanks