Re: [Amc-list] Solar chargers, Hey Joe!

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

What, you didn't check Harbor Freight? They have a 5W panel for $39.99, and a 1.5W for $13.99. Neither has a controller, just a non-backfeed diode. They have a 7A controller for $19.99. 

Both of the above are really made to stick on top of the car or on the dash. For what you want to do I'd get the 5W (or they have 25W panels for $199) and controller, then run the wire up to the roof. You'll lose a bit of power due to voltage drop over the wire, might end up with only 1/2 the output to the battery (of the 5W panel, might get 15W from the 25). I'm sure our resident electrical guru could figure out what you'd lose if you get the wire you intend to use and figure out what the resistance is over the length.

For trickle charging losing half the output or so shouldn't be a problem. I don't think it would strain the cells?  Without the controller you could overcharge the battery. The diode just prevents the solar cell from discharging the battery at night. Does a solar cell try to work in reverse in the dark?? 

-----------------
Date: Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:31:57 +0000
From: Wrambler242@xxxxxxxxxxx

 I found an RV place that sells the one Tom linked to for $39.99+ shipping an dit came out to about $47 total to my house. So if anyone wants one there are lower prices to be found!
  

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)

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