Built-in Solar Panel - leaks and replacement.

Rubine1 · June 2023

Hello:
This a semi-neurotic question. I am about to buy a new 320 Boondock with a built-in solar panel. I've had a 2007 model with a foldable panel for years that has worked great. I am wondering if there have been any issues of leakage around the panel. Also, if the panel needed to be replaced is that an easy swap out?

Thanks

kottum · June 2023

We have the factory panel and it works well for the size it is. Just leave it there and use your foldable panel with it (your foldable panel will need its own solar controller as the factory controller is sized to the factory panel). Or you can add another mounted panel it you want, and leave the factory panel there.

The advantage of the foldable panel is it can be moved out of the shade (where its smart to park your camper in hot weather), and adjust it for best sun orientation.

I don't know why the panel would leak, it's put on with adhesive not screws.

pthomas745 · June 2023

There are threads about solar panel installation, etc. Not too many about leaking. A few about failed panels. Several years ago there were threads about removal that was problematic because of whatever glue or adhesive was used to fasten the panels to the trailer. There was a Facebook post about a week ago about a new TAG that the panel was lifting slightly from the adhesive. I think they are using double sided tape these days, which is much easier to remove, probably. Your portable panel would be a great asset, so hold on to it!

https://www.google.com/search?q=solar+panel+removal+site:tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com&client=firefox-b-1-d&sxsrf=APwXEdf0PdHIXaVAGAxMGE83goqKlxWSpA:1688059252754&ei=dL2dZMjRLeeJkPIPntCYqAc&ved=0ahUKEwjI2_rg_uj_AhXnBEQIHR4oBnUQ4dUDCA8&uact=5&oq=solar+panel+removal+site:tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com&gs_lcp=Cgxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAQA0oECEEYAVDLCFjbMGD1OGgBcAB4AIABMogBugqSAQIzM5gBAKABAcABAQ&sclient=gws-wiz-serp

SLJ · June 2023

No leaks from mine. There's only one small hole through the roof for the wires underneath. I use it along with a solar suitcase. Nice to be able to set the suitcase out in the sun while the T@B is in the shade. Also nice to have the roof top charging when towing. It's a good combination.

Rubine1 · June 2023

Thank you for your comments. I deeply appreciate it.

Built-in Solar Panel - leaks and replacement.

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