← vanagon.com home · Continue the discussion in the forum
VanagonEuroVan
Sort by authorSort by posting dateSort by topicChronological orderMost recent firstShow authorHide authorShow table of contentsHide table of contentsBack to main VANAGON pageJoin or leave VANAGONSearch
Subject:Vanagon Stealth Solar Set-up
From:Jack R <jack007@COMCAST.NET>
Date:Fri, 22 May 2020 19:22:16 -0400

After watching countless YouTube videos, and reviewing postings on how people configured their Vanagon's and other camper vans with Solar Panel(s), I determined I didn't want to goober up my van with wires all over the place in plain sight.  I also wanted to have options as to where to position while camping (van in shade, sun near by... optimal).
https://photos.app.goo.gl/j5PS7uHndHNmayZ29

So, I researched flexible panels, higher wattage, great warranty, and something that would store under the rear cushion.  I selected a SunPower 110W. (also available in 170w) https://tinyurl.com/ybcunwc8  $215 for the panel.

    Panel Dimensions: 45.9"(L) x 21.9"(W) x 0.1"(H) (0.8" including J-Box) 
    Weight: 4.4lbs - Lightweight, Portable, and Easy to Stow
    Power: Rated Voltage (Vmpp) 18.8V | Rated current (Impp) 5.9A
    Flexible: up to 30 degrees - Suitable for Irregular Surfaces
    5-Year power & 2-Year product warranty (no salt water exclusion) - Backed by SunPower

This panel fits easily under the rear cushion, without any noticeable increase in thickness.  I believe the 170w option would also fit!

Next, I purchased plugs and connectors and 12g wire, as well as a Controller (to lead acid aux battery).

I ran the 12g wire from the rear cabinet mounted plug, underneath and through the cabinets, to behind the driver's seat, where I mounted the controller connecting it to my Aux battery via the two inverters (I have a 700w and 500w, the 500w usually is enough and has far less draw when on, and powers my TV/DVD without any problem).

Rear cabinet plug(s): $15 https://tinyurl.com/y7tr4tq6
Wire 12 AGW 25ft: $17 https://tinyurl.com/y8lz8bp5
Solar Wire Connectors 10 pairs: $11 https://tinyurl.com/y836cxel  
Solar Lead-Acid Batter Controller: $16 https://tinyurl.com/ybmvh8of
Inverter 500w: $40 https://tinyurl.com/y7zsoanz

Total invested $314!

I'm very happy with this set-up, as no-one would have a clue that my van has a Solar option... to help with the occasional times we are not able to hook-up to shore power, or if we do some Boon-docking for a night or two.

I hope this inspires some followers!

Jack R.

Back to May 2020, week 4
Have something to add on this topic today? Revive this thread in the forum »