How to mount solar panel to SUV roof rack?

[nomadizens]

Hi gang,

We're new to the forum and to solar. We purchased a 140W solar panel (http://www.amazon.com/Kyocera-140w-S...ra+solar+panel) to mount on the roof of our '97 4runner to provide electricity during our extended road trip. We got the idea from these guys: http://www.drivenachodrive.com/about...nacho-vanagon/ . We are looking for tips on how to mount the panel to the roof rack. We haven't actually seen the panel yet, so don't know what the frame of the panel is like.

Any ideas or tips are greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Nomadizens

[Naptown]

easiest way to mount is to drill through the roof rack and bolt to it add some isolation washers to the assembly. adjust the rack to fit the mounting holes.
WOW your 4runner is older than mine How many miles on it?

[nomadizens]

270k miles, but she's still in great shape. Yours? We're having some extra work done to make sure she's up for our 40k mile journey.

[Naptown]

about 335K AND STILL LOOKS DECENT AND RUNS WELL

[Sunking]

How is the panel going to be used?

[Mike90250]

I doubt the roof rack is rigid enough to hold a panel @ 80mph. (more if you have a headwind). large panels can take a little flex, but they are mostly made of glass, their aluminum frame adds almost nothing to the weight.

[nomadizens]

We'll use the solar panel to charge a deep cycle battery, which we will then use to charge electronics.

We won't be going 80mph. Most often will be driving 50 mph or slower. I did some research last night and it looks like we just need to invest in some new cross bars and some hardware to attach the panel. It's been done plenty of times before, not to mention all the RV installs. We're looking for advice on the best types of brackets/ hardware because we don't want the panel to fly off!

[Mike90250]

.. Most often will be driving 50 mph or slower...

50 mph + 15mph headwind = 65 mph airspeed, without even trying. A gust from a passing 18 wheeler - - -

[indie]

How are you planing on having your panel up there.

http://imgur.com/HoqOtXC

or

http://imgur.com/LezEznU

I couldn't find a 97'

[nomadizens]

We are planning to mount it lengthwise with the vehicle. I think the panel is longer than the vehicle is wide, but haven't seen it yet, so don't know for sure.

I guess more generally we are wondering if 1) panels typically come with any mounting hardware (I assume this varies...) and 2) if there are usually places on the panel frame for bolting it to mounting hardware.

I've tried to ask the company we purchased the panel from about this, but they are clueless. They just keep saying they don't sell specific mounts for vehicles. Derp.

Thanks for your help. Like I said, this is our first solar experience, so we have a lot to learn!

[Mike90250]

I've never seen a panel come with any hardware. The PV frames have pre-punched holes for mounting, if you drill new holes for a different mount, you generally void the warranty, so you have to adapt your rack, to fit the panels.

[nomadizens]

Thanks! That is helpful to know. We will post pics here of our mounting process. It's all part of the adventure!

[indie]

Hi Noma,
Here is the spec sheet for that panel. This details dimensions and mounting holes.

http://www.kyocerasolar.com/assets/001/5342.pdf

[nomadizens]

Hi Noma,
Here is the spec sheet for that panel. This details dimensions and mounting holes.

http://www.kyocerasolar.com/assets/001/5342.pdf

Super helpful! Thanks!