Question re wiring capacity of distribution study when adding new solar suitcase to T@B400

Davids · July 8

Hi. First of all I just wanted to thank all of the people that post on this forum, I continue to find the information posted very helpful.

We have a 2019 T@B400. Recently we upgraded to 300 Ah of Lithium from the original AGM's. While we do have the rooftop solar that came with the trailer, I am now looking at adding a portable solar suitcase (Renogy 220w) to increase our charging capacity while boondocking.

In reviewing other posts on this forum and looking at the way nuCamp installed the rooftop solar. My plan is to use 10 AWG wiring that would go to a new Victron MPPT 75 - 15 (MPPT for rooftop solar is MPPT 75-10), with a 30 amp inline fuse before and after the MPPT, and then run the wires to the Distribution Stud.

There are already four wires going to the negative and positive studs (shunt, 1200 w investor, solar and battery switch/fuse) on the Distribution Stud. My question is are there any safety issues, etc., if I add another set of wires to the stud, increasing the number of wires from four to five sets?

Any other comments you may have about this work, is also appreciated. Thanks

AnOldUR · July 8

If the extra cost doesn't bother you, I'd suggest going with the 100/30 SmartSolar controller. You may want to add another solar suitcase in the future for topping off your 300Ah battery a little faster. Personally, I'd add distribution blocks instead of adding more to the battery studs.

Horigan · July 9

I would replace the single distribution stud with a BlueSea power bus bar, with a cover. Stacking more that two terminals on a stud isn't recommended. Same for the negative side if that has three or more terminals.

Davids · July 9

Thanks for the comments. I have gone back and forth about getting a larger MPPT.

Rich, n looking at the bus bars they come in different amperage's, do you know which amperage would be best for the T@B400?

elbolillo · July 9

@Davids 300a is fairly standard.

elbolillo · July 9

@Davids I would agree with @AnOldUR in considering a 100/30 MPPT. Always nice to have a bit of extra headroom for future expansion. I have 2 installed in my Tab 400. One for the 2 rooftop panels and 1 for my external panels. I would also recommend using 8awg between the controller and the distribution block. Very little extra cost and less voltage drop.

Horigan · July 9

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/comment/222267#Comment_222267

Though probably overkill, I would get one that has the same post diameters as the single one you have now. That way all the cable ends will attach with good contact.

Question re wiring capacity of distribution study when adding new solar suitcase to T@B400

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