Renogy 100 Watt Bendable Solar Panel

[Huck]

Haven't installed yet, but here it is just laying on roof. It is a little more expensive than a rigid panel, but I'm hoping the easier install will make up for it. It's on sale now from Renogy. If you order it from Amazon you don't get the sale price.



It only weighs 3 lbs and since it is made of plastic, it can easily be moved around without scratching your trailer. Notice the cables come out the top instead of bottom.

I plan on attaching to roof with 3M VHB tape although it does have predrilled holes if you don't trust VHB table. Renogy said it can be installed flush on trailer because it is white. Actually they said it shouldn't be installed on large, dark surfaces.

I've got a few things I haven't figured out yet like where to cut the hole in the roof, best way to route cables, where to mount charge controller, how to easily add a 2nd panel without having to redo cables, etc.

I think I have everything I need except the battery cables and they should be here Friday. I'm also going to cut the cables and make them the exact length I need. MC4 connectors are real cheap, so I ordered a few.

[Timber Wolf]

Looks good, please keep us posted on your progress. I just ordered a starter kit with a "stiff" 100W panel and assorted giblets from Renogy and it came last Saturday. I wanted it portable for now so wanted the regular panels but those flexible panels are really nice for a permanent mount on an egg. Did you buy any of the tools for the MC4 connectors or can they be done satisfactorily manually?

[Huck]

Originally Posted by Timber Wolf

Looks good, please keep us posted on your progress. I just ordered a starter kit with a "stiff" 100W panel and assorted giblets from Renogy and it came last Saturday. I wanted it portable for now so wanted the regular panels but those flexible panels are really nice for a permanent mount on an egg. Did you buy any of the tools for the MC4 connectors or can they be done satisfactorily manually?

I watched a video of a guy assembling the mc4 connectors using a standard crimper/stripper. All you need to do is strip the wire and crimp the pin. Then you can use pliers or MC4 assembly tools ($6.99 on Amazon for 2) to assemble the connector.

I'd post a link to the video, but I can't find it.

[cpaharley2008]

I'd flip it around and run the cable thru that vent, drill a hole on the side vent flange and on the cover and you should have a waterproof entrance. Once inside is your problem.

[Timber Wolf]

Originally Posted by Huck

I watched a video of a guy assembling the mc4 connectors using a standard crimper/stripper.

I remember the "bad ol' days" before You Tube. It is a wonder we ever got anything figured out!

[Huck]

Originally Posted by Timber Wolf

I remember the "bad ol' days" before You Tube. It is a wonder we ever got anything figured out!

Still can't find the video, but here are some pictures and instructions.

How to assemble MC4 connectors | Sustainable Solutions Ltd

[The Minimalist]

Polycrystaline and Monocrytaline cells are more subject to reduced output Than some other cells when they get hot. It is usually recommended that there be an air space below the panel to allow ventilation. Do any of you guys who have gone to surface mount have previous experience with mono or poly cells mounted with an air space? Have you noticed a difference in output on the surface mount?

This may be a bit to ask, since most of the solar posts I see involve a first install, but it would be interesting to find out. Inquiring minds, and perennial experimenters, have got to know.

[Huck]

Originally Posted by The Minimalist

Polycrystaline and Monocrytaline cells are more subject to reduced output Than some other cells when they get hot. It is usually recommended that there be an air space below the panel to allow ventilation. Do any of you guys who have gone to surface mount have previous experience with mono or poly cells mounted with an air space? Have you noticed a difference in output on the surface mount?

This may be a bit to ask, since most of the solar posts I see involve a first install, but it would be interesting to find out. Inquiring minds, and perennial experimenters, have got to know.

Renogy said just don't install on a large, dark surface.

[greendragon]

How much was the 100 watt solar panel.

[DBH]

I installed the same panel purchased directly from Renogy for $199. I bought a $35 20 amp Landstar controller from Amazon to pair it with - Renogy doesn't offer any waterproof ones and I wanted to mount it to the side of the battery box. As Jim suggested, I ran the line through the fan vent then tucked under the trim and out next to the 7-way wires. 10 gauge for the long run and a short 8 gauge between the controller and battery.

I'm not sure about the poly/mono cell temp concerns. It's a 100w panel and we're only running LEDs and a Fantastic Fan off a group 27 battery. Any charge we use up at night seems to easily have been replaced by 10am the next day.

It did cost more than some options but there are no mounting holes (also used VHB tape) and you simply can't see it from the street which I like. Working great for us!

Greg

[Vivian L]

I like this idea. I have two of the folding 12's and connected them together but it's just not quite enough to charge my Eliminator Power Pack fully during the day. I will be looking into this option. Thanks.

[stev]

Please keep us up todate on these thin vinyl solar panels.
AM Solar had so so reviews of similar panels over a short lifespan.
Wishing you the best.