Hi gang,

Wondering if anyone is running large (40W or higher) solar panels on their van, and if so, how did you go about connecting it to the electrical system; do you need a charge controller, or can you simply connect it to the battery circuit? Also, can it be connected to  the alternator-supplied circuit without using a diode, or will the alternator energize the solar cells? Looking at a Siemens 75W unit to mount on the pop-top. Should keep the battery topped off nicely, even on extended outings. They put out about 17V dc , any need to step this down, or can a deep cycle take that voltage without damage?

Speaking of deep cycle, COSTCO has Optima Blue-top deep-cycle gel-cells for $149. Quite a bit larger than the red or yellow top, but I'm thinking of mounting my 2nd batt elsewhere, perhaps under the rear bench. Thoughts or comments?

Thanks,

Jerry McCavitt

'86 Syncro GL 15"

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