 *New Owner* Solar Plans...... [message #327062] |
Tue, 12 December 2017 21:59  |
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DrMeznik
Messages: 9
Registered: December 2017
Location: New Braunfels, TX
Karma:
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Junior Member |
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Hi, I'm Austen. New to the forum and new owner of a 1977 GMC Motor Home. My plan is to get everything up to snuff. Including a Quadra Bag system. Probably a new final drive as well (just because). Engine seems in good shape but fuel lines and new pumps. Also, bushings, electric windshield wiper motor, distributor and whatever. Most likely half that list because something else pops up and I don't have unlimited funds.
EXPENSIVE!
Anywho, I wanted to install a solar system because I am planning on mostly boondocking in this sweet rig. I'm ordering one of those long electrical schematics but until then, here's what I am thinking............... (hopefully this makes sense)..................
I'm thinking of pigtailing this device into the main electrical output from the generator: http://amzn.to/2BtL9oz
Then run that to a battery bank that is separate from the house batteries. So, basically I run my generator to power the coach and quick charge my batteries. Then, I switch to the inverter to run everything the generator could run (rear AC would probably be overload).
Of course, the standard MPPT solar charger with a few panels on the roof.
Replace the converter with a smart charger and battery cutoff switches.
Lastly, I would run another charger off 110 (with a switch) for when I'm plugged into shore power.
It made more sense to me to have this as a separate additional system. Than it did to add to the existing house battery setup.
The obvious loss is the ability to charge your solar battery bank using the alternator.
The obvious win is I'm not running things off a rats nest of extension cords plugged into an inverter.
So, basically it's the GoPower inverter/charger/transfer switch, 2 smart chargers (one for shore power to the solar bank and one to replace the one for the house batteries), new boxes and fuses, solar panels, MPPT and the batteries.
This seems like the most elegant solution. But, it's still 3 charging inputs for my solar bank. Don't know how safe that is....
So, my question is..... how important is is DC in boondocking? Is my inverter to power most everything a bad idea? If so, why?
1978 Royale,
26 Foot,
403 Engine,
Quadrabags,
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