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What I have done is to attach a 12v socket via a fuse directly onto the battery leads and then attach a 12v plug to the solar panel control unit. Obviously you need to ensure you keep the correct polarity.

The socket is just out of sight behind a seat backrest but it is a simple job just to plug the panel in when needed.

If needed you can also use the socket when the solar panel is not connected.

Whether or not it complies with whatever 'regulations' there are, I don't know but it works.

DaveS1

Quote: Originally posted by G7ACU on 06/4/2014

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So, if I've read this right, you plan to hard-wire a short cable parallel with existing battery wiring and connect as and when required to panel. If that's the case, there's no problem with that at all. The connector won't effect EHU use.

Can I ask if you have a separate charge controller, or is there one affixed to your suit-case panel?

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Quote: Originally posted by Defender on 07/4/2014

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We have done exactly what you are suggesting. We bought a 120w folding solar panel but there was no way that crocodile clips would fit onto our battery terminals, so I asked the supplier to provide two fly leads for the panel. These are permanently attached one to each terminal of the battery and have a 'quick release' of sorts connector at one end that links into their their respective partner from the charge control unit that is attached to the panel via 2m or so of cable. The controller sits in the battery box when in use (so cannot be 'borrowed') and the panel can be up and running in around 1 minute from arriving on site. When we pack away, the controller is packed with the panel in its case and the fly leads (once disconnected from the controller) sit atop the battery in the battery compartment.
A neat, easy way to attach a panel. Just make sure that you have an in-line fuse on the positive fly lead. Can't remember the reasons why now, but we either had an in-line fuse on the crocodile connector (which we do not use) or we needed one between the controller and the battery for some reason, but it cost an additional £2 or so to have one incorporated into the fly lead when they were manufactured for us. Been very happy with the outcome so far.

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Quote: Originally posted by DaveS1 on 07/4/2014

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What I have done is to attach a 12v socket via a fuse directly onto the battery leads and then attach a 12v plug to the solar panel control unit. Obviously you need to ensure you keep the correct polarity.

The socket is just out of sight behind a seat backrest but it is a simple job just to plug the panel in when needed.

If needed you can also use the socket when the solar panel is not connected.

Whether or not it complies with whatever 'regulations' there are, I don't know but it works.

DaveS1

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Quote: Originally posted by Grolsch on 27/4/2014

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Not sure if anyone else has noticed but the darned thing tracks from East to West and keeps using shadows to make me get up and repositione the panel. (joke)

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