Going Solar

[Hamlej]

We have decided to take the plunge and add solar power to our 3820FK. We will be installing 4 Go Power 170w panels, Flexmax 80 MPPT controller, Go Power GP IC50R and the Go Power GP IC3000 inverter to a bank of 4 Battle Born 100Ah Lithium batteries. Comments, suggestions or opinions welcome. We want to make sure we get this right the first time. As configured we would have the option to add panels up to 1000 watts max. Once the system is installed does the TV alternator still charge the batteries while driving or does the solar system remain on to do the charging?

[suny07]

Hi

here is one of the latest YT battle born install https://youtu.be/nAbfIQwc0x0

You will love the battle borns

Mike

[PNW Fireguy]

Originally Posted by Hamlej

We have decided to take the plunge and add solar power to our 3820FK. We will be installing 4 Go Power 170w panels, Flexmax 80 MPPT controller, Go Power GP IC50R and the Go Power GP IC3000 inverter to a bank of 4 Battle Born 100Ah Lithium batteries. Comments, suggestions or opinions welcome. We want to make sure we get this right the first time. As configured we would have the option to add panels up to 1000 watts max. Once the system is installed does the TV alternator still charge the batteries while driving or does the solar system remain on to do the charging?

It is my understanding that Battleborns have the BMS integral to the battery enclosures. With that said they should turn off or reject the charge from any source when they have reached their charge setting voltage. So regardless of whether it is the output of the solar charger or the TV altenator either source should be able to charge the batteries when the BMS allows.

[Hamlej]

This system is installed and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Having the entire coach on the inverter excluding the AC units and the washer and dryer, made for a nice clean simple installation. Everything is split in the main panel without the need of a sub panel.

[PNW Fireguy]

Nice work, congratulations. I am sure you will enjoy your new system and the lack of generator noise when you find that pristine spot out in nature to park your rig.

[Last2Die]

That looks expensive lol. I like it but I don’t boondock that much, but I would love to have it ! Very clean install

[Lenny K]

Nice install. Did you do the work by yourself? Looking at the pictures I was wondering where your shunt went to ground on the frame?

[Hamlej]

No, it was installed by D&R Family RV service in Glendale Az. If you can expand the picture you will see that it runs along back wall under hydraulic fluid bottle and is attached to a vertical frame support. If you need a closeup let me know.

[Lenny K]

That is where I saw the wire going but didn't know where it went to ground. Just wanted to make sure everything was hooked up right for you.
I am pretty impressed with the quality work and especially so since you had a RV place do it for you.

[Hamlej]

They are a small family business that does all types of rv repairs but specializes in solar installs. I’ve talked to several installers here in Az Including the two in Quartzite and felt more comfortable with an installer that is in business all year long as opposed to winter months only.

[Lenny K]

Enjoy your solar install. If you dry camp mostly it won't take very long to recoup your investment.

[McIver]

Good install. Just don't expect it to charge much when parked as shown in the picture (hehehe).