300 watt solar panel mounted bwtween split backstay

[Jared1048]

hello all,

I have an idea for mounting a 300 watt panel (40lbs, 39inches by 72) between the split backstay. I would run a stainless steel tube between the backstays then mount the panel on top of that. I could then articulate the panel for and aft to get it facing the sun for maximum effectiveness.


some worries I have are it being to "wobbly" and moving around too much. I think I could take some thin dyneema line and run a few stabalization points. I've just never seen it done so want as much feedback and minds on the problem before I commit.


as a side note I was looking at a LG panel that boasted a high efficiently rating of near 18%. It was almost half the weight too of a Kyocera panel at 40lbs compared to 60lbs. The warranty was just as good too which says a lot.

anyways, thanks guys!
Jared

 

[kito]

Would it not be a head banger by the time you lowered it enough to clear the boom?

 

[caguy]

I have seen some where they hinge the frame of the panel on the backstays bridging the two directly. They then attached the topping lift or Hayward to the center of the opposite side of the panel to raise or lower according to the angle of the sun. No need for stainless tube.

 

[Jared1048]

Would it not be a head banger by the time you lowered it enough to clear the boom?

No, It would be just high enough where I could stand on the rear seat and have enough room. Its far enough back to not be in the way of the boom too

 

[Jared1048]

I have seen some where they hinge the frame of the panel on the backstays bridging the two directly. They then attached the topping lift or Hayward to the center of the opposite side of the panel to raise or lower according to the angle of the sun. No need for stainless tube.

That sounds like an interesting idea!