Depends on whether you want to set up the panel in a remote location or just leave it mounted to the roof. It's sure nice to have the panel in the sun and the van in the shade, if possible. There are several ways to do this. One option is to stow the panel inside the van while under way and then set it up when you get to the campsite. The advantage to this option is portability and ease of use. The downside is that you have to set it up every time you want to charge up and the panel is subject to theft. A 50ft cable of the proper gauge would probably be long enough to do the trick. I use large gage speaker wire, #12 I think, which has very little voltage drop for the 75 watt panel I have. Another option is to mount the panel to a roof rack. Mine is attached to 2 Yakima cross bars using the standard bar mount brackets and some SS bolts. This gives me the option to leave the panel on the roof, set it up remotely or put the rack & panel in storage when not needed. The upside of this option is that the panel is always charging as long as there is sunlight. It can also be locked to the rack for security. But it is difficult to remove the panel for remote setup unless you have a ladder. Some volks like the simple approach and permanently mount the panel to the roof. Using a larger higher output panel will help compensate for off-angle alignment to the sun and shady campsites. Whatever option you choose, be mindful of the added weight of the panel, racks and hardware to the poptop. It will make lifting more difficult. Lift assist struts solve that problem. Keith 90 Syncro Westy "VikingWagen" |
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