1Louder
Explorer
I wanted to have the ability to move my panel from my trailer to my vehicle and be able to share it with others if needed. My trailer has a dedicated controller so this setup is really for my vehicle. I built a small dry box setup that has the controller inside and SAE ports for the panel and battery. It will also keep the dirt out of the controller. The box is just large enough that I can store the required cables in it as well. I use SAE on all of my stuff and have another cable with alligator clips so I can hook my panel up to any battery.
Upgraded with black screws! Oh boy!
Showing battery voltage
Battery is being charged by my PowerFilm rollout panel. I'm waiting for one more SAE Plug thus the hole in the box.
Temporary placement for testing purposes.
Parts can be sourced from just about anywhere but here are some online places:
Amazon for the box - MTM Survivor Dry Box with O-Ring Seal, Large
by MTM
Link: http://amzn.com/B002KENWZY
eBay for the SAE RV Roof Connectors - $5 each plus shipping
http://www.ebay.com/itm/361323603559?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
Amazon for the SAE connectors but they can also be found on eBay. These are just for the solar panel cable end and the one going to the battery if you make a DIY cable. I also made a DIY cable with Alligator clips so my setup could be used on any battery.
West Florida Components 2 Pin Quick Disconnect Wire Harness SAE Connector Bullet Lead Cable
by Coast
Link: http://amzn.com/B00MYDR1BW
If you don't want to diy the battery cable you can purchase this:
Schumacher WM-12 Cable Connector for Battery Charger/Maintainer
by Schumacher
Link: http://amzn.com/B003WDDLTO
with Alligator Clips:
KeyLine Chargers KC-alli-clip Alligator Clip Connector with Black Fused 2-Pin Universal (SAE) Quick Connect Plug
by KeyLine Chargers
Link: http://amzn.com/B00TRR08AY
Hope this simple DIY project can generate ideas for others.
Upgraded with black screws! Oh boy!
Showing battery voltage
Battery is being charged by my PowerFilm rollout panel. I'm waiting for one more SAE Plug thus the hole in the box.
Temporary placement for testing purposes.
Parts can be sourced from just about anywhere but here are some online places:
Amazon for the box - MTM Survivor Dry Box with O-Ring Seal, Large
by MTM
Link: http://amzn.com/B002KENWZY
eBay for the SAE RV Roof Connectors - $5 each plus shipping
http://www.ebay.com/itm/361323603559?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
Amazon for the SAE connectors but they can also be found on eBay. These are just for the solar panel cable end and the one going to the battery if you make a DIY cable. I also made a DIY cable with Alligator clips so my setup could be used on any battery.
West Florida Components 2 Pin Quick Disconnect Wire Harness SAE Connector Bullet Lead Cable
by Coast
Link: http://amzn.com/B00MYDR1BW
If you don't want to diy the battery cable you can purchase this:
Schumacher WM-12 Cable Connector for Battery Charger/Maintainer
by Schumacher
Link: http://amzn.com/B003WDDLTO
with Alligator Clips:
KeyLine Chargers KC-alli-clip Alligator Clip Connector with Black Fused 2-Pin Universal (SAE) Quick Connect Plug
by KeyLine Chargers
Link: http://amzn.com/B00TRR08AY
Hope this simple DIY project can generate ideas for others.
Last edited:
