Starting to plan my solar install and wondering if the controller needs direct access or if it can be tucked away behind the kitchen drawers which, in this case, would be directly above the batteries and inverter. Any thoughts appreciated.
I would suggest you put it where you have reasonable access and installing it is easier. Behind the drawers might be OK but after a couple times in there for something and you will wish it were somewhere else. Don't forget fuses between your panels and the controller. An on/off switch between the controller abd the batteries is a good idea and there should be a fuse between the controller and the battery.
Every coach is different so trying to say where to put yours is difficult. Longer solar cables are probably cheaper then longer, bigger battery cables. Solar input does not have to connect directly to the batteries.
I have the same year and model. This was my choice.
Finished solar! (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=34139.msg313234#msg313234)
It would be fine IF you don't feel the need to look at to see what it's doing.
There is nothing to look at on my controller, am I missing something?
This particular controller has a digital readout and several indicator lights on the face but the remote display should provide the same data.
I mounted all of my parts on a panel and then the panel in place. It made the wiring easier to do on my workbench. This is in the bay where the water manifold is located. Cabels come down through the refrigerator bay just above.
The more detailed your plan the easier these projects are to get done. Make sure you know what parts you will need and get them all ahead of time and think through each step.
Keep asking questions. Many of this have done this ourselves and the range of experience is good. In the end choose what is best for you.
A Second House Battery Bank, Solar Panels, 2 New Inverters (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=31957.msg284051#msg284051)
I installed my controller in a closet -- right above the batteries and directly below the panels, and I mounted a 750 watt inverter right next to it....
Solar controller would benefit by not being in a confined air space to dissipate heat.