Solar install: back of the bus/conclusion
The back of the bus received a general update.
I have an affinity for things marine. Even if we had not gone to lithium, I would have replaced the isolator with a simple Perko switch. With lithium and solar for me it was a must. We tested this system on the way down to FL a few days ago as I posted. In the heavy overcast, we lost only a few percentages of charge over the entire day. If needed we can open the alternator to the lithium and the BMS will protect the alternator. When we first started the installation it was not clear this protection was available. It made no difference to me but might to anyone else.
We ran solar to charge the engine bank. The picture shows the in dash gauge I purchased to monitor the charge and what is going on with that system. I have not found the dash voltmeter to be reliable.
In the space below the fridge, we ran 10/2 from the fused Blue Sea bar in the electrical bay to an outlet next to the table. The intent was to create non inverter circuits that would support residential fridge if we go that direction. We will use it currently to provide 12 v power to equipment used at the table.
I have also attached a photo of the engine battery bay. The 2/0 cable is visible but has not yet been heat wrapped with an appropriate red sleeve. The Parker system of an earlier upgrade is obvious.
Summary and conclusion.
Would I do it again knowing the cost, time, and frustration. Yes I would but for a variety of reasons beyond the technical. Charlie who assisted in the work has been a valued friend and tech for over 22 years. His generous offer to bill at $40 an hour was much appreciated and he always placed us at the top of his dance card. He is in high demand in the Hampton Roads marine community. But most valuable was his treatment of me as an apprentice who he was willing to work side by side with whenever he was needed.
Also appreciated was the always available support from AM Solar. Both Mitchell and Garrett were always available. My lack of experience was valuable to them in the end because of the excellent installation guide they have now developed.
Finally and most important were the many hours my 12 year old grandson worked next to me. We learned together and I am sure he will one day tell the story of Pops RV to his own grandchildren. So in the end it was about so much more than cost and tech. It was a fun and rewarding project.
Topic: Solar install: back of the bus/conclusion