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Topic: Battery bay area cable entrance (Read 350 times) previous topic - next topic

Battery bay area cable entrance

I bought a 200 watt portable solar panel from Renogy and trying to figure out a way to run the cables out the bottom of the battery bay area in a efficient, dry way. I hate to just partially close the bay door as rodents and thieves have access to the batteries.  I'm going to use it for other batteries in the fleet so figured 200 watts is better than nothing. Any suggestions?
Thanks
1996 U295-36, Cummins 300hp, 8.3. Build number 4864. Vin number 1F97D536XTNO54271. Purchased October 31, 2019.

Re: Battery bay area cable entrance

Reply #1 –
Isn't there a vent on the bottom of that bay?
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
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Re: Battery bay area cable entrance

Reply #2 –
Sounds like this will be a portable solar panel vs roof-installed.

You can always use a magnet to verify where the floor beams are.  Drill a hole large enough to accommodate a pipe you can run the wires through.  Diameter and how to block it from bug intrusion is up to what gauge wire you want and what kind of connections.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
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Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Battery bay area cable entrance

Reply #3 –
Have you thought about using a bulkhead connector? sealed and weatherproof.
6 gauge bulkhead electrical connectors marine - Bing images
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Re: Battery bay area cable entrance

Reply #4 –
Ok. As Craneman suggested, there is a vent in the bay below the diesel tank . I cut enough screen out to let the wires clear and then cut a piece of foam to block and prevent access when not in use. Should work great
Thanks
1996 U295-36, Cummins 300hp, 8.3. Build number 4864. Vin number 1F97D536XTNO54271. Purchased October 31, 2019.

Re: Battery bay area cable entrance

Reply #5 –

I used something similar to this on a boat.  In the same listing it shows related items that might work also.
Amazon.com: Kohree SAE Power Socket Sidewall Port Connector, 2 Pin SAE Quick...

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