Hi Everyone,
I am a new owner of a MacGregor 26x. I need to install solar for 2 reasons.
1. No power where my boat is stored. (but plenty of sunshine)
2. I am using a refrigerator (rated at 5 amps.....usage will depend on duty cycle and temperature)
I would like to install around 120-175 watts of solar. I have experience with solar but that was installing it on my flat roof camper. The 26x is a bit more complex for mounting.
Now for the 2 big questions............
Where can I best install the solar panels? (and still use my bimini top, have reasonable access into the boat from the rear ladder and avoid shadows as much as possible)
Is there an inexpensive way to install the solar panels? (stainless steel tubing and the associated welding seems like it will cost more than the solar setup)
I can do most work myself.....but not welding. I have been scratching my head on how to do this task myself without spending a fortune on making the mounting system.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Even better if you have the engineering plans for the install. Otherwise pictures are very helpful.
Thanks,
Gregg
I am a new owner of a MacGregor 26x. I need to install solar for 2 reasons.
1. No power where my boat is stored. (but plenty of sunshine)
2. I am using a refrigerator (rated at 5 amps.....usage will depend on duty cycle and temperature)
I would like to install around 120-175 watts of solar. I have experience with solar but that was installing it on my flat roof camper. The 26x is a bit more complex for mounting.
Now for the 2 big questions............
Where can I best install the solar panels? (and still use my bimini top, have reasonable access into the boat from the rear ladder and avoid shadows as much as possible)
Is there an inexpensive way to install the solar panels? (stainless steel tubing and the associated welding seems like it will cost more than the solar setup)
I can do most work myself.....but not welding. I have been scratching my head on how to do this task myself without spending a fortune on making the mounting system.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Even better if you have the engineering plans for the install. Otherwise pictures are very helpful.
Thanks,
Gregg
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