How I Added a Solar Panel to My New SUV! (Without Drilling into the Car)

In this video I go through the thought and build process of installing a 100-watt solar panel onto the top of my GMC Yukon (by way of a rooftop cargo box). Solar really helps make an SUV camper feel like home!
PRODUCT LINKS FROM THIS VIDEO
** Renogy 100-watt compact solar panel: amzn.to/3Fc8jBy
** Solar panel mounting brackets: amzn.to/3B46V1k
** 15-foot MC4 cables: amzn.to/3A1KIQv
** MC4 to 8mm adapter cable: amzn.to/3B156lP
(^ Note that these are Amazon affiliate links. Renogy provided the solar panel free of charge.)
► Adventure Know-How: adventureknowhow.com/
► The SUV RVing Website: suvrving.com/
► My online store (SUV camping/vandwelling/overlanding accessories & SUV RVing merch): KamchatkaGear.com
OTHER LINKS
** Gear I use: suvrving.com/gear
** SUV RVing the Book: amzn.to/2SUrtme (Affiliate link)
** The blog: suvrving.com
** The company I use for my web hosting: www.a2hosting.com?aid=5dd04ea50f139 (Affiliate link)
** Instagram: / suvrving
** My other KZread channel: / tenkaraaddict
#solar #camping #SUVcamping

Пікірлер: 314

  • @SUVRVing
    @SUVRVing2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching! I just got back from a fantastic two-week trip to Colorado, and the videos from that trip will start next week. Stay tuned! -Tristan

  • @kathleenmahoney6657

    @kathleenmahoney6657

    2 жыл бұрын

    Can't wait to see videos of your recent trip! Thanks, Tristan!

  • @arleneehrlinspiel5232

    @arleneehrlinspiel5232

    2 жыл бұрын

    👏👏👏

  • @RVingwithG

    @RVingwithG

    2 жыл бұрын

    11:40 NOooooo I don't think this is going to (work) Last long.... it may cut and short out!

  • @srcombs74

    @srcombs74

    2 жыл бұрын

    I am so excited to see your Colorado videos. We go yearly and do lots of hiking, I’m sure we will learn about new places from your videos. Literally obsessed with your Channel,

  • @warrenweisfus709

    @warrenweisfus709

    2 жыл бұрын

    Should cut or grind out a small cavity for the cables to nestle into, then silicone caulk in place to prevent any movement.

  • @tim285401
    @tim2854012 жыл бұрын

    I did special electrical modifications for government armored Chevy suburbans . if you take off the plastic rear panel above brake light, there is an access point to the interior of the vehicle, giving you a clean factory look. we also used wire dressing and magnetic studs(amazon) to dress cabling along roof rack.

  • @anthonylorenzo49

    @anthonylorenzo49

    2 жыл бұрын

    Great suggestion. The cable rubbing against the metal edge is a sure fire way to a short and a fire.

  • @flowerchild777

    @flowerchild777

    2 жыл бұрын

    Great to know, thank you

  • @jayvalentin018

    @jayvalentin018

    11 ай бұрын

    Thank you for this

  • @samuellipscomb8173

    @samuellipscomb8173

    Ай бұрын

    I just bought a beat up 99 c1500 chevy suburban and I'm wanting to put a 300-525w panel on top.

  • @DavidJohnson-yy4iu
    @DavidJohnson-yy4iu2 жыл бұрын

    Let me voice one concern about the routing of your cables. At the point where you bring the cables into the interior of your car, you have the cables sandwiched between the rubber molding and the metal of the body on which the molding normally sits. Each time you close the hatch, the cables will be pressed against that metal. At this point you may already have an indentation in the cable insulation. As time goes by, there is the potential for the insulation to be severed to the point where it will short out against the metal. My solution might be to drill and file the metal so that the wire insulation is not compressed between the molding and the metal. Just a thought.

  • @brigittewalden9226
    @brigittewalden92262 жыл бұрын

    I really appreciate that you found your Thule used.....it's real life for most of us. Meaning you didn't search them out for free or buy one new.....that's another reason I like your channel so much, you are keeping it real !! I can't wait to see your new adventures.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    It took a bit of looking! They're a hot commodity. I paid $100 for the gray one on the RAV4 when I got it and had to pay double that for this one. Still a decent price, though. Thanks Brigitte!

  • @thlim1460
    @thlim14602 жыл бұрын

    Actually you just need to turn the 4 brackets 90deg so that the narrower part of the bracket is along the slope of the box. If you want it’s also easier to bend the leg part of the bracket to match the slope of the box cover.

  • @jasonvassallo6677
    @jasonvassallo66772 жыл бұрын

    Looking good. If I can make a suggestion. I would recommend a larger fender washer on the underside for maximum surface area so there is even less of a chance for rip out.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    I was thinking the same thing as I was editing the video and watching it back. Thanks 👍

  • @yakinkate7946

    @yakinkate7946

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SUVRVing Yes, most definitely. those big washers can’t be pulled through the plastic! Safety feature.

  • @DavidSolisOutdoors

    @DavidSolisOutdoors

    2 жыл бұрын

    I agree 100%

  • @rlbuzz00

    @rlbuzz00

    2 жыл бұрын

    The fender washers are a good idea. I would also consider using some blue Locktite thread locker on the threads. Loctite is a liquid that is placed on bolt threads that once it dries, prevents the nut from loosening. On many of the rough roads you travel on, the vibration could cause the nuts to loosen and possibly let your solar panel come loose. For a little extra security you might consider using locking nuts instead of the wing nuts. They are a lot more secure. Better safe than sorry.

  • @pensadave

    @pensadave

    2 жыл бұрын

    Just a thought maybe rotate the Z brackets a quarter of a turn to allow them to sit more flush on the box

  • @MauroMarzorati
    @MauroMarzorati2 жыл бұрын

    Good deal Tristan. Bit of advice if I may with using the Jackery 1000 with a solar panel in a car in the manner you’re using. Plug the solar panel into the Anderson input and reserve the 8mm input to receive power from a switched cigarette adapter. The way Jackery have wired the precedence of the inputs will allow you feed it from the alternator /starter battery when the engine is running and from solar at all other times automagically. That’s how I have mine (90W panel from Cascadia4x4) wired up. Pretty mind blowing, actually.

  • @koslund11
    @koslund112 жыл бұрын

    When I installed my four Renogy panels on the roof of my fifth wheel, I used nothing but nye-lock stainless nuts. Haven't had any loosen up. If your not planning on installing any more than one panel, you could get away with a lot smaller wire size. Max output from a 100 watt panel is about 6.8 amps. Size 14 stranded wire would have worked great and takes up less room. Like always, you did a great job on your installation. Hope you don't get offended by my idea. Thanks for sharing.

  • @jamesscott1932

    @jamesscott1932

    2 жыл бұрын

    The thickness of the wire from the solar panel or “gauge” of the wire is somewhat dictated by the length of the wire from the panel to the controller or Jackery. You cannot go wrong by using thicker pure copper wire. You can err by using thinner gauge wire or cable.

  • @davef.416
    @davef.4162 жыл бұрын

    Some low strength Loc Tite (242) on those threads for the wingnuts will keep them from backing off as you are driving down the road. Enjoy all your videos !

  • @write2dawn
    @write2dawn2 жыл бұрын

    I’m n Florida, always seal your holes!!! Water will find a way

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    For the cargo box? No water has gotten in during the 50,000 miles I've driven with the other setup. It's not an issue. I'm not concerned about the gap in the weather stripping if that's what you're referring to.

  • @sitresjolie2343
    @sitresjolie23432 жыл бұрын

    Thank you, Tristan! I have wanted to do this on my Expedition, but my son didn’t think that it would work. Now, we even have a “how to” video! ❤️

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    It's worked great on the RAV4 and has worked great so far (4000+ miles and counting) on the Yukon.

  • @bigred19742003ify
    @bigred19742003ify2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Tristan...I just bought a used Thule off Facebook marketplace and going back and forth on solar options. Still haven't decided 100% on either a portable powerstation or battery with inverter but have 100% decided to mount my panel on top of my cargo box after seeing this video. Thanks again...love your videos 😉

  • @mikefranks4528
    @mikefranks45282 жыл бұрын

    thanks for your video. You are one of the first KZreadrs that actually show the thought/mounting process for the install.

  • @alexanderweaver7066
    @alexanderweaver70662 жыл бұрын

    Well done, Tristan! Great tutorial video. I want to do the exact same thing on a Thule cargo box. That will leave one side of my roof top platform room for a canoe or fishing kayak. You made it easy to understand and provided information on the necessary parts to get the job done.

  • @kirkydaturkey
    @kirkydaturkey2 жыл бұрын

    PERFECT. This helps me get a better idea for my solar configuration. Thank you for the update at the end of the video!

  • @Mickju
    @Mickju2 жыл бұрын

    I will never be doing anything like this myself, but I enjoy watching you doing it none the less.

  • @laurenincollingo6187
    @laurenincollingo61872 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Tristan, I learn so much from you sharing your experiences.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching!

  • @jonwarner1977
    @jonwarner19772 жыл бұрын

    Thought about doing something similar but not attached solar panels to a Thule box. Looks good and now something else to consider for a future project. Cool! Thanks for the videos.

  • @paulas_lens
    @paulas_lens2 жыл бұрын

    I did a similar set-up with my Crosstrek. Bluetti/ICECO/Renogy100watt mounted on my expedition basket for an Arizona to Wisconsin and back camping roadtrip in September. Other than all the deer (omg) and mosquitos, my only issue for me was the dc cigarette car cord connecting the Bluetti and ICECO that was easily dislodged and had to be checked often. I will never travel or camp with ANY type of ice cooler ever again. I even made hot coffee with this system every morning. I do wish I had more headroom in the Crosstrek on those nights I didn't want to set up my tent. Love your videos!!!

  • @robbrown4621

    @robbrown4621

    2 жыл бұрын

    Please do not buy products made with slave labor in communist China. That includes Renogy and Bluetti appliances. The communist party in China has almost one million Uyghur people in concentration camps and forces them to assemble solar and other appliances as well as make clothing without receiving pay. Here is a Wiki link for more info: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uyghur_genocide

  • @chiqa6282
    @chiqa62822 жыл бұрын

    Now that I have redone my Sunurban build inside this is my next step. Thank you once again for a great video.

  • @eleanorfox1537
    @eleanorfox15372 жыл бұрын

    What a fantastic idea! I have the same cargo carrier for my Subaru Outback, makes great use of space and function!

  • @TrickyVickey
    @TrickyVickey2 жыл бұрын

    That’s exactly the set up I would chose. Already made up my mind on it over a yr ago. Renegy to Jackery.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    It works great!

  • @anthonylorenzo49

    @anthonylorenzo49

    2 жыл бұрын

    It would also be more aerodynamic to turn the bracket

  • @donwyates

    @donwyates

    2 жыл бұрын

    Just a suggestion: get a "suitcase" style (with 30'+ cables), so you can position your vehicle in the shade, and your panels in the sun. Mounting them on top of the vehicle, in a static position, is not very efficient, obviously.

  • @JudithLawrence718

    @JudithLawrence718

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@donwyates if you notice , he doesn't spend much time in his vehicle during the heat of the day unless driving.

  • @donwyates

    @donwyates

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@JudithLawrence718 While that is a valid point, it doesn't negate mine. Solar panels ARE more efficient when facing the sun directly. Also, if they're portable/movable, one can place them in sun as opposed to shade, where you typically want your vehicle. Of course, if it's 20 degs. out, it only makes sense to position your vehicle where it will get full sun. Also, if you have a relatively small battery to charge - or one that is not hungry for a charge, it may make little difference. Additionally, I'm unable to capture the rays while I'm driving. For my needs, however, I've found 30' (10awg) cables connected to 200w suitcase style panels, charging a 1300Wh lithium battery to be optimal. YMMV

  • @John-ve3gg
    @John-ve3gg2 жыл бұрын

    That looked so easy lol. It will be nice to have the solar on the jackets all the time no worries for power. Can't wait to see what you got into im Colorado! Thanks for sharing your adventures!

  • @Datzneat
    @Datzneat2 жыл бұрын

    Anytime you add things to the roof you should measure the new height so you know when driving around.

  • @MountainGirlwIPA
    @MountainGirlwIPA2 жыл бұрын

    Yukon looks awesome. Nice job on solar.

  • @shelleysechrist508
    @shelleysechrist5082 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for this video. You did such a neat job and I appreciate you showing the details of how you did it.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @gp4708
    @gp47082 жыл бұрын

    Has your set up experienced any wet weather? Curious about water leakage through the back door. 😂 "Bolt" 😂. Thanks for another great tutorial.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes, it rained through the night one night. No issues.

  • @gp4708

    @gp4708

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SUVRVing great!!!

  • @freedomdove
    @freedomdove2 жыл бұрын

    Great job, Tristan. Can't wait to see the footage from this trip. 👍

  • @halabujioutdoors
    @halabujioutdoors2 жыл бұрын

    Great tutorial! I need to do this project on my SUV. We're gonna see lot more solar panel on cargo box on SUVs on the road now on. 👍🚙👍

  • @RicG.
    @RicG.2 жыл бұрын

    Thule has been out of a lot of their boxes for quite sometime now - so it's great that you were able to find a used one.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    I wouldn't have bought a new one even if they were available. Too expensive!

  • @davidpease3158
    @davidpease31582 жыл бұрын

    A word of warning, I do not recommend running the thick wires through the rear door seal. It can cause exhause gases to leak into the cabin. Also, as others have noted, larger fender washers on the inside of the carrier.

  • @piquat1
    @piquat12 жыл бұрын

    That's about what I did with the cables on my SUV. Gorilla tape is good for holding wires in place. In a couple of places I used sticky backed velcro if I thought I might need to move it out of the way in the future.

  • @rondiel5230
    @rondiel52302 жыл бұрын

    As to routing the cable into the SUV, I've had a Goal Zero panel on top of my 2004 Grand Cherokee for about 3 years now. Just fed the cable in through the rear driver side door, which I don't use much, and let the door gasket deal with it. It's worked fine with no water leakage so far with no hole in the Jeep and minimal work to install. I did use two aluminum angle bars to make a frame on the roof that connects to the pre-existing roof channels, then I bolted the panel into that frame.

  • @ps.adv.9851
    @ps.adv.98512 жыл бұрын

    Well done. Seems like an awesome setup. Enjoy!

  • @lynnepierce3676
    @lynnepierce36762 жыл бұрын

    Cool👍😊glad this set up for your solar panel & Jackery work well. Looking forward to seeing your continued travels👍😊

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Lynne!

  • @yeetamous
    @yeetamous2 жыл бұрын

    Coool... while I'm recovering from hip injuries, getting so much out of your trips..thank you! Geoff Marsh

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hope you recover fully!

  • @TBoss3313
    @TBoss33132 жыл бұрын

    Excellent! Now I know I can mount solar panel on my Outback. Thank you!

  • @glennbrown3728
    @glennbrown37282 жыл бұрын

    Tristan thank you for answering my questions about finding camp sites. In reference to the video about installing a solar panel, I think the wiring install could use some improvement. Time 10 minute 29 seconds on the video. May I make a suggestion or two. The routing under the weather stripping, across what may be scarp metal may not be wise. You may find that under the large piece of plastic that is above the tail light may be a hole that is meant the vent the body to the outside. Wires fed into such a hole would be accessible be pulling them under the inside body panel (yes the big plastic one). Routing them this way they could exit the panel inches from the Jackery. This way require cutting two holes in plastic. If correctly placed they will not be very noticeable, detracting from appearance and resale value of the vehicle. What if there is no hole under the plastic piece? A hole drilled in the body where the lift gate meets the body will lead to the same place. A large grommet would be required to protect the wiring as it went through the body. If I were there I would know more and even help you which the install. If you are ever in norther California near Yosemite let me know.

  • @kevinfeeney5309

    @kevinfeeney5309

    2 жыл бұрын

    I was thinking this as I watched. The metal where the weather stripping clamps onto could cut through that insulation and cause preventable issues. Otherwise, clean and easy install without putting holes in the body.

  • @insaynbcr
    @insaynbcr2 жыл бұрын

    The routing of the cables under the lower rear door weatherstrip would be my only concern with this setup. If you get rearended or back into something hard enough to push your rear door in, there is a REALLY good chance that you will completely cut through one or both wires. Or worse yet, short your wires either together or against that horizontal body seam. If you choose to leave it there, you might consider an inline fuse as close to the panel as possible.

  • @chillgamer8376

    @chillgamer8376

    2 жыл бұрын

    What can happen? Than these events cause a fire?

  • @insaynbcr

    @insaynbcr

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@chillgamer8376 Exactly. Direct short to chassis ground will heat up the wire and could cause a fire.

  • @chrisyates399
    @chrisyates399 Жыл бұрын

    Good job! Jackery are VERY protective of their proprietry 8mm input and do not like MP4 adaptors being used, though of course it works. It just means you probably won't be getting free Jackery Solar Generators or gear as you did with Renogy who I also use for my 2 x 200W panels.

  • @gypsydavy708
    @gypsydavy7082 жыл бұрын

    Great idea. You have a natural tilt for the panel when the Thule is open. I too see future problems where the wiring is routed through the weather stripping. Maybe with a grinder you could cut a small piece out of the metal to allow the wiring to pass without chaffing?

  • @SeauT
    @SeauT2 жыл бұрын

    Great execution. You have addressed my issue and provided a great solution. Thx. for sharing.

  • @lindamartin2045
    @lindamartin20452 жыл бұрын

    Thanks, Tristan. This is not something I will be doing but it is great to share ideas with those will. Take care.👍🎶🤗

  • @mayinnlin1879
    @mayinnlin18792 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing. Awesome 👍😊

  • @debbielovett3087
    @debbielovett30879 ай бұрын

    Pretty cool. Can't wait to see your adventures.

  • @teresag.9400
    @teresag.94002 жыл бұрын

    Nice job, good idea!

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @Imjustherevibin
    @Imjustherevibin6 ай бұрын

    Thanks for the great tips.nice build

  • @rnandhay
    @rnandhay2 жыл бұрын

    Just opening and closing the tailgate would cut through the insulation on the wire and cause a short that could possibly lead to a fire. You could possibly run it through the top where the other wires for the tailgate is run it would be a much cleaner install and not to mention a safer.

  • @nj4x4fever2
    @nj4x4fever22 жыл бұрын

    This is a very nice way to do the solar panel. I like this idea a lot. Thanks for sharing.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Dennis 👍

  • @MrMandala1111
    @MrMandala11117 ай бұрын

    From an engineering perspective you really need to fit extra large flat washers either round or square with rounded corners on the inside of the panel mount's to distribute stress loads so the panel doesn't fly off and become a flying projectile.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    7 ай бұрын

    Been running these setups on several SUVS for over 100,000 miles and haven't had any issues.

  • @sergiopalomo5658
    @sergiopalomo56582 жыл бұрын

    Gracias por tu alluda nos sirbe. Mucho felizidades por tus ensenansas

  • @jobabs
    @jobabs2 жыл бұрын

    Great explanation on installing the solar panel. Looking forward to your Colorado videos. We were in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area north of Glenwood Springs over Labor Day; we love that area.

  • @robbrown4621

    @robbrown4621

    2 жыл бұрын

    Please do not buy products made with slave labor in communist China. That includes Renogy and Bluetti appliances. The communist party in China has almost one million Uyghur people in concentration camps and forces them to assemble solar and other appliances as well as make clothing without receiving pay. Here is a Wiki link for more info: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uyghur_genocide

  • @DesertTuna
    @DesertTuna6 ай бұрын

    You earned my subscription because this is so helpful how to shine bright in dark places well done

  • @carlaifera5254
    @carlaifera52542 жыл бұрын

    .... lovin' the attentions given to detail ✨

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Carla!

  • @MrBowenarrow
    @MrBowenarrow10 ай бұрын

    I have exact cargo box. Love it

  • @janewolf4541
    @janewolf45412 жыл бұрын

    Good job on your solar panel. Can't wait to see your trip to my state of BEAUTIFUL COLORADO.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Lots of good stuff to come!

  • @jbar6618
    @jbar66182 жыл бұрын

    Nice solution. You might consider putting a small air damn around the leading exposed edge of the panel to prevent bugs and road debris from damaging the panel's underside.

  • @roypointanderson8468
    @roypointanderson84682 жыл бұрын

    Great setup. I wish I would've put a set up like that on my Subaru, "Adventure Wagon". I noticed you called your rig "The Adventure Mobile". I'd been calling my camper Modified Subaru Forester, "The Adventure Wagon", for quite a while.

  • @bencuraza6503
    @bencuraza65032 жыл бұрын

    Your Channel popped up in my queue and so Happy / New Sub your simple detailed genius solar panel cargo box mounting i did not think of solves I thought I had NO more?? roof top install space. GREAT JOB‼️Vid‼️👍👍⬆️

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Ben!

  • @joeblow1942
    @joeblow1942 Жыл бұрын

    NOTES TO SELF: 1) Turn the brackets (and possibly bend) so they lay flat on the Thule box. 2) Use 4 nylon lock washers inside. 3) Use 4 large fender washers inside the box.

  • @michaelkurz9067
    @michaelkurz90672 жыл бұрын

    Your new starship is looking real good sir:)

  • @DavidLari
    @DavidLari2 жыл бұрын

    I think I would have gone ahead and just used an Anderson cable (with adapter) instead of those bulky MC4 cables. With one 100 watt panel, that should work fine. Also, I'm concerned about how you routed the cables behind the weatherstripping. Your wire is pushed up against that metal edge and is probably going to wear over time. At the very least, you need something to keep that wire off of the metal. But I'm sure other commenters would have better ideas for routing that wire.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    I'll keep an eye on it. If it wears away, I'll just get new cables for $15. If I wanted to be proactive, I'd just wrap the cables in electrical tape. Not a big deal either way. I used the MC4 cables instead of the Anderson because it's only this Jackery (the 1000) that has the Anderson. I'll also use this setup with the 1500, which doesn't have the Anderson.

  • @jwagnermail

    @jwagnermail

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SUVRVing The issue with those cables wearing away the insulation at the point where it enters the rear door is that they are electrical and could spark (not a lot, since the voltage is probably 20v). You might have bedding and other flammable stuff in that area. I know you are going to keep an eye on it, but that sort of stuff gets forgotten. You should be able to drill a hole in that area which can be made safe with a grommet and sealed up so it will not leak.

  • @anthonylorenzo49

    @anthonylorenzo49

    2 жыл бұрын

    Some one else responded that there is a pass through hidden under the brake light assembly. A short is not a great thing to encounter.

  • @KT-ed8hj

    @KT-ed8hj

    11 ай бұрын

    ​@@anthonylorenzo49where?

  • @smarsville
    @smarsville2 жыл бұрын

    Great video!

  • @marianfrances4959
    @marianfrances49592 жыл бұрын

    Hack of the year! Love it! 👍😎🇨🇦🌞

  • @PinkGapple16
    @PinkGapple162 жыл бұрын

    I'm so glad to see someone actually get solar straight to a power bank I couldn't find many videos of people doing that so I'm glad you did because I don't have the room for a battery and inverter and all those extra cables I just want to hook straight to my power bank

  • @andylangeland496
    @andylangeland4962 жыл бұрын

    Ive been looking for a way to mount another solar panel on my cargo box and make use of that space. Good call with the rubber washers and the panel's inset mounting holes!

  • @karen11
    @karen112 жыл бұрын

    Impressive. Not a simple thing to get right and not have leaks or hear minor rattling from the wires.

  • @lud5495
    @lud54952 жыл бұрын

    love it thanks

  • @mikefranks4528
    @mikefranks45282 жыл бұрын

    I would have loved to hear how often the solar panel topped off your Jackery 1000 based on normal usage. and how it performed on various weather conditions.

  • @jotsingh8917
    @jotsingh89172 жыл бұрын

    New roof boxes should be designed for solar panel add-ones. Same applies for the pop-top.

  • @susansk8sorrell123
    @susansk8sorrell1232 жыл бұрын

    Excellent 👍

  • @christianfiguroa7147
    @christianfiguroa7147 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks B

  • @TakuyaHikichi
    @TakuyaHikichi2 жыл бұрын

    You could even place wood on Thule's bottom side and drill through it to make it more secure.

  • @mikerobbins5049
    @mikerobbins50492 жыл бұрын

    Keep a watch on where your cables enter the vehicle at the bottom of your lift gate. There could be chaffing where the cables rub against that metal edge . I would have ground out a section for the cables to go in further and added some more protection around the cables. Just an idea...

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    I'd rather just buy a new set of $15 cables if/when the time comes than mess around with grinding out a section in the metal, but to each his own. Thanks Mike!

  • @mikerobbins5049

    @mikerobbins5049

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SUVRVing I see your point as long as it doesnt cause a short and mess up the Jackery or the solar panel. Just a thought...

  • @Mike47834

    @Mike47834

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SUVRVing This could be a fire hazard if a short occurs. It wouldn't take much to mitigate the potential problem. Place a piece of durable, non conducting material between the wires and the chassis edge. It is a cheap, easy fix to keep from having a potential fire.

  • @Bergo101

    @Bergo101

    8 ай бұрын

    Yeah man. I really admire this guys creativity and DIY approach but some things you gotta get done properly, electrics is one of them! This looks dodgy IMO.

  • @bambihargrove6499
    @bambihargrove64992 жыл бұрын

    Very cool 😎

  • @lawsonone6015
    @lawsonone60152 жыл бұрын

    Like, as usual. :) Thank you, Sir!

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks! 😁

  • @martink9785
    @martink97852 жыл бұрын

    I think you were only seeing 50w because the battery was at 96%, I expect the internal solar controller was limiting the current. Would be good to see what you achieve in full sunlight with a half full battery 🙂 thanks for the vid 👍

  • @amyrodgers9887
    @amyrodgers98872 жыл бұрын

    I love how you think these things through!

  • @robbrown4621

    @robbrown4621

    2 жыл бұрын

    Please do not buy products made with slave labor in communist China. That includes Renogy and Bluetti appliances. The communist party in China has almost one million Uyghur people in concentration camps and forces them to assemble solar and other appliances as well as make clothing without receiving pay. Here is a Wiki link for more info: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uyghur_genocide

  • @amyrodgers9887

    @amyrodgers9887

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@robbrown4621 Renology and Bluetti? I thought it was Apple!

  • @robbrown4621

    @robbrown4621

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@amyrodgers9887 Thank you for your reply. Apple is an American owned company based in Cupertino, CA., that has its products assembled in communist China. As of the last 24 months, Apple has moved about 30% of its assembly process to Vietnam and is quietly moving more of its assembly out of communist China. Also, Samsung and Tosiba, a South Korean conglomerate and a Japanese corporation, have completely closed their facilities in communist China. Bluetti and Renogy are partially owned by the CCP (Communist Party of China) and serve the interests of Chinese communist party members. In fact, all companies of any size in communist China must have members of the communist party as owners. Bluetti and Renogy are assembled by slave labor forced from imprisoned Uyghur people who are not members of the majority race in China.

  • @amyrodgers9887

    @amyrodgers9887

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@robbrown4621 I have heard fo the horrible treatment of the Uyghur and I am very sorry to hear of the involvement of Renology

  • @amyrodgers9887

    @amyrodgers9887

    2 жыл бұрын

    It seems to be a Louisiana business. Where is the CCP connection?

  • @natalielebron5532
    @natalielebron55322 жыл бұрын

    Your very creative

  • @Mauitaoist
    @Mauitaoist10 ай бұрын

    Using composite shims like when you're installing doors would level out those panels

  • @edenbreckhouse
    @edenbreckhouse2 жыл бұрын

    I have a van the size of the NV200 and found that I can put a folding 100w solar panel out on the long sloping dashboard under the windscreen and leave it there permanently - an indoor solar panel that clearly doesn't need holes to wire into the battery.

  • @lawrencedavidson6195
    @lawrencedavidson61952 жыл бұрын

    Very nice setup with one exception. The wires entering the vehicle may short against the body and perhaps cause a fire. I would do that part differently to make it safer. Greetings from sunny Jamaica.

  • @isaowatanabe1902
    @isaowatanabe19022 жыл бұрын

    Great videos. I've always enjoyed watching your travels. Please be careful with the seals on your vehicles. Carbon monoxide might become an issue 🤔. I'm not an expert, but just a thought 👍

  • @shangu85
    @shangu852 жыл бұрын

    Nice video

  • @MarmaladeOutdoors
    @MarmaladeOutdoors2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this moving. Just starting SUV life full time so I appreciate this video. So there was no leaking through the neoprene washers either or did you experience any rain? Thanks!

  • @2-old-Forthischet
    @2-old-Forthischet2 жыл бұрын

    I'm a firm believer in Locktite. I was a trip when my spare gas tanks worked their way loose on my roof rack. Luckily none fell off.

  • @kimberlyferrier1312

    @kimberlyferrier1312

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes, you are right. It is amazing how bolts vibrate loose.

  • @2-old-Forthischet

    @2-old-Forthischet

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@kimberlyferrier1312 and at the other end of the spectrum, being an old fart, I can tell you how well Locktite RED works! I once had to leave a bicycle rack on the back bumper of a car that I traded in. I could not break loose the nuts attached with Locktite RED!

  • @sonny1597
    @sonny15972 жыл бұрын

    Got a Jackery 300 for my two rigs and move it between the two. I just use my solar panels when camped otherwise I directly connected the Jackery to my battery to get charging voltage. Once home I always give the Jackery a good charge off the 110V ... never used a fridge or a cooler .. take up too much room. My rigs are a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr and a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek that I lifted and put on all terrain tires.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yep, that's a good way to do it if you don't have much in terms of power requirements. Thanks Al.

  • @sonny1597

    @sonny1597

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SUVRVing A question? Did you mention and I missed it, but can you not open the Thule cargo box at maybe a 45 degree angle and get a better presentation to the sun? Just a morning thought! 🤠

  • @MonaMorgan
    @MonaMorgan2 жыл бұрын

    Very cool.

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Mona 👍

  • @markbryce9074
    @markbryce90742 жыл бұрын

    Great video, broke it down very well and will be adding my panel next weekend. Question, you run the solar panel to the jackery , then do you just plug your fridge to the jackery always? Or do you plug the fridge into solar and use the power station at night/no sun?

  • @onlyinamerica0073
    @onlyinamerica00732 жыл бұрын

    cool vid

  • @toododd
    @toododd2 жыл бұрын

    Looks good. My guess is you will find out you didn't need the panel for long trips. You can charge the Jackery with the alternator. But hey, it was free!

  • @Sthilboy56
    @Sthilboy562 жыл бұрын

    Looking good , I would change the wing nuts to nilock nuts

  • @SUVRVing

    @SUVRVing

    2 жыл бұрын

    I've had the wing nuts and lock washers on the RAV4's setup for years and have had no issues. I like being able to check the tightness by hand.

  • @Sthilboy56

    @Sthilboy56

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SUVRVing ok 👍

  • @gtoutdoorexcursions2938
    @gtoutdoorexcursions29382 жыл бұрын

    Ive got that box myself, off craigs as well like 4 or 5 years ago, it's great, but it's not exactly 100% water tight, still it's great to have the extra space, ive thought about the solar on top, I even thought about a diesel heater in side with the vent coming down into my truck topper as needed. Cool to see you set it up!

  • @iristuo8391
    @iristuo83912 жыл бұрын

    Nice video! Is it possible for you to review Xtar SP100 portable solar panel?

  • @thisisadebrown
    @thisisadebrown Жыл бұрын

    If I do this, or should I say, when I do this, I will be using cable, routing clips and adhesive to guide around yet give it movement at the bottom, so it’s more flush to the surface of the cargo box

  • @ExpeditionNomadicAdventures
    @ExpeditionNomadicAdventures2 жыл бұрын

    Are you aware Yakima sells a cargo carrier with a solar panel attached. It is the CBX 16 Roof Box starting at $1200.00. Great video and ingenuity build.

  • @lrodd247

    @lrodd247

    2 жыл бұрын

    Unfortunately it only produces around 35 watts at 5 v and I don't believe you can connect it to a jackery or the like. It only has 2 USB ports that you can draw power from but I could be wrong... 🤔

  • @lrodd247

    @lrodd247

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@istj777 You're welcome. I'm with you on that 👎 More of a marketing gimmick if you ask me and not very practical for long term. Not for me either 😅

  • @VibhasKendzia
    @VibhasKendzia Жыл бұрын

    Did you experience more wind noise? Thank you for your inspiring video!

  • @imaudm
    @imaudm2 жыл бұрын

    T I do apologize for snorting at screw when it was a bolt, which you corrected on edit. Also to level, maybe keep some plastic shims on hand. They might have more give than metal washers. Neoprene washers great

  • @ceciliacecilia4162
    @ceciliacecilia41622 жыл бұрын

    What about using composite shims,(HD, Lowe's), cut to size, to stabilize connections on the curves ?

  • @tomdalgleish
    @tomdalgleish Жыл бұрын

    Those brackets are guaranteed to punch holes in the ski box. You should start the Kluge Wiring Co mpany.