Barb, I used a 1 amp panel as detailed at my site http://my.tbaytel.net/guskers/ Check the section on the solar panel. The 1 amp panel I've installed (in conjunction with a charge controller) would run around $150 US. It keeps both batteries topped while the van is sitting (not a daily driver). While camping, I haven't had a problem with 5 days of lights, stereo, etc off the aux which is just another standard lead acid battery. I did add a 12Volt flourescent fixture which is much more efficient than the stock lights. Don't bother with much smaller panels...my experience with several is that they are useless for automotive use. My goal here was primarily not to worry about external charging during idle time/winter storage, although the panel certainly helps while campling. With your Optima, I suspect this setup would be fine. |
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