Expanding Solar Array Install and Epic Fail - How not to Build an Overlander

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  • čas přidán 8. 05. 2018
  • Finally, get to Installing the Sliding Solar Array on the Overlander and run into some problems. Sorry for the wind noise throughout and the music to try and cover it up.
    We needed a way to have 4 panels always facing the sun while driving and such but be able to pop out the other 4 when parked at a trailhead, shopping center or camp spot. This sliding mechanism allows 4 panels to be tuck underneath 4 other panels and it's all air-powered so that I don't need to climb up and mess with them.
    And the way they are plumbed in, it allows for an automated extend and retract - the second I tap the brakes, they pull in.
    This is the Solar Controller we use with our Lithium Batteries:
    electrodacus.com/
    Air Mufflers:
    www.mcmaster.com/#9834K31
    Drawer Slides:
    www.mcmaster.com/#13875A57
    Cushioned Round Body Air Cylinder, Double Acting:
    www.mcmaster.com/#6475K207
    NITRA solenoid valve, 5-port (4-way), 2-position AVS-5111-24D:
    www.automationdirect.com/adc/...
    12 Volt Coils to replace the 24 Volt coils on the above valves.
    www.automationdirect.com/adc/...
  • Jak na to + styl

Komentáře • 297

  • @kathleenbuckley4338
    @kathleenbuckley4338 Před 4 lety +21

    Did you just solder microelectronics under a MICROSCOPE ?!?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety +10

      Yup! If you think that's impressive, you'll love this one... czcams.com/video/7RdbXw5mJsA/video.html

    • @Colaaah
      @Colaaah Před 4 lety +5

      ​@@Everlanders With using air-operated actuators, what happens if you lose compressed air whilst travelling? Will they stay put? I had this idea a few months ago for a fifth wheeler RV that we want to buy in about 6 months for fulltime living. The only difference that I was thinking for ours was to use gear DC operated actuators. I look forward to your thoughts on this?!?!

    • @fightswithspirits915
      @fightswithspirits915 Před 3 lety +1

      Probably used the freaky robot arm that points things out lol

  • @PaulWagner1
    @PaulWagner1 Před 4 lety +38

    You could seriously create an entire company around everything I just watched over the last 13 minutes.

  • @andraslibal
    @andraslibal Před 5 lety +14

    A guy who soldiers his own electronics. Respect.

  • @bingandrew3266
    @bingandrew3266 Před 5 lety +13

    Great system design, you should sell this. Goo video also with challenge and a happy ending.

  • @Hashterix
    @Hashterix Před 4 lety +5

    Amazing, you've done exactly what I've been dreaming of doing with a Sprinter van, except the second later of solar panels would be mounted the other way and deploy entirely on one side of the van so as to double as a canopy (though my idea was to put them on some sort of tray on runners) automatic deployment and retraction is just taking it to the next level, perfect.

  • @TRCa51
    @TRCa51 Před 6 lety +6

    So impressed with your talent and knowledge! That turned out awesome!

  • @brucejones5258
    @brucejones5258 Před 5 lety +23

    You sir, are a genius.

  • @averysmallcampervan
    @averysmallcampervan Před 5 lety +4

    Stunned and amazed by your solar set up video on every level! From the brilliance of the sliding design, to the bravery of soldering a tiny component on a printed circuit board! I wandered here by chance but I will be staying to watch some more!

  • @wayneco
    @wayneco Před 4 lety

    I designed something exactly like this back in 2004 or 2005 for popping out (doubling) the solar panel capacity on my Prevost motorcoach using air slides similar to you and already used throughout the coach, but I never had it fabricated, and a lot of that had to do with realizing that all the solar in the world I had a non-energy star fridge and not great energy storage options for overnight, the state of the art then was still AGM for the most part. That meant after all that fancy solar I wold still need to cycle the genny at least once overnight, deleting the purpose of the exercise. It delights me to see you did it, gives me hope for the future should I want to sit around boondocking, with enough solar to run all the air conditioning should we want to. Our coach has 40’ length, most usable for panels, so we could potentially generate quite a bit of power at peak day, right when we need the power for cooling the interior.

  • @paulrichards999
    @paulrichards999 Před 6 lety +1

    Absolutely amazing! I always look forward to your videos.. Such inspiration.

  • @susannad27
    @susannad27 Před 5 lety

    your solar set up is genius love it

  • @surf247365
    @surf247365 Před 4 lety +1

    Great ideas! Really enjoy watching your channel.

  • @Dimensvlz
    @Dimensvlz Před 6 lety +1

    You've done an installation which was still in my mind! Thank you for the nice video!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety +1

      Thanks! And thanks for subscribing!

  • @teca1775
    @teca1775 Před 5 lety

    Been thinking about doing that myself. Thanks for sharing how you did it.

  • @viledanew
    @viledanew Před 4 lety +1

    This is the most genius solar system I've seen on CZcams!

  • @clipvue222
    @clipvue222 Před 4 lety

    Absolutely genius I would pay you to do this setup on my camper. Very nice craftsman work.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety +1

      Some things money can't buy, for everything else there's MasterCard. 😄

  • @furgulley8077
    @furgulley8077 Před 5 lety +1

    Just brilliant! Super impressed!

  • @gerardfenn3988
    @gerardfenn3988 Před 3 lety

    I did't finish binging yet but did Mr Everlander forget to mention the hockey tape?? That must hold up pretty well for I have seen kids play street hockey in NYC with it wrapped around their sticks. Trying to stop the wood from splintering. I would say Mr Everlander was a Grinder when he puts the skates on. If Mr Everlander puts on the skates, the opposing team had better watch out because "He Is A 300 lb. Grinder". He Gets It Done For Sure!!! Yep, Hockey is King in Canada.

  • @AraceaeFanatics
    @AraceaeFanatics Před 6 lety +2

    I love following this channel.

  • @Levi_Allen
    @Levi_Allen Před 6 lety +7

    I loved seeing the test work properly the second time. I'm glad I didn't have to do all the problem solving, but got to experience the result haha.
    I might have missed what it is you do for work, I'm assuming you're an electrical engineer?
    That must be so satisfying having the solar array work.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety +2

      A question better answered in person.

    • @phTeamHalb
      @phTeamHalb Před 4 lety

      @@Everlanders no, no. Better done in a new video! Dont think I can wait for overland expo to find out! Excellent videos. Ty

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety +1

      Very unlikely that we'll attend another Overland Expo.

  • @andrewt.c.wilson808
    @andrewt.c.wilson808 Před 5 lety

    amazing thanks for sharing, now I'm getting ideas, kudos, peace and blessings ... subscribed

  • @JGUNW1R3D
    @JGUNW1R3D Před 4 lety

    Nice work on the solar panels.

  • @dividendbro6362
    @dividendbro6362 Před 3 lety

    This setup is absolutely awesome. By being able to scale up the amount of solar capacity (doubling) people can incorporate things like air conditioners much more sensibly making mobile living a much more viable full time option. Increased shade thus less heat retention and increase power to allow for greater cooling efforts. I bet there would be a large demand for setups like these on van conversions or otherwise.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety

      Exactly! We did a video on our Solar Powered Air Conditioning here: czcams.com/video/woZH85EiHNY/video.html

  • @no5x937
    @no5x937 Před 5 lety +1

    Great idea separating the upper and lower solar panels so you can power the upper only when the lower is retracted and shaded. And your running Python scripts. Very cool!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      Yup, it also adds airspace to under the top set to give more airflow and cooling...

  • @PowerGearPerformance
    @PowerGearPerformance Před 3 lety

    Ingenious as always

  • @definitelynotcole
    @definitelynotcole Před 5 lety +5

    You, sir, are a badass one day I hope to be at your level.

  • @zubberification
    @zubberification Před 6 lety

    That is an impressive solution to mounting more panels.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety +1

      Thanks, we want to be able to run the Air Conditioning and still have a surplus solar income.

  • @psyamok3735
    @psyamok3735 Před 4 lety

    amazing design! Thumbs up!

  • @johnnyb3726
    @johnnyb3726 Před rokem

    omg...this is VERY techy...I am not even mildly prepared to do such a build. lol...Solar and Lithium batteries scares the heck out of me. This is why I would pay someone like you to build it, install it, and set it up so all I need to do is deploy and retract it...and turn stuff on and off inside the camper and live my best life off grid. lol.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před rokem +1

      Come to Perú, I'll whip it right up for you.

    • @johnnyb3726
      @johnnyb3726 Před rokem

      @@Everlanders lol...I wish that was possible.

  • @theshartbus1267
    @theshartbus1267 Před 3 lety +1

    Damn that's so cool. I've got 4 4x6 panels I'm trying to figure out how to mount on the curved roof of my bus. I'd love to be able to do something like this though and be able to have a few more panels deploy when I'm parked

    • @chrislee1099
      @chrislee1099 Před rokem

      Perhaps you should have got thin flexible panels might have solved your problem with the curve

  • @philsmith5400
    @philsmith5400 Před 4 lety

    Excellent job - I'm jealous! Just subscribed....

  • @alexworks9659
    @alexworks9659 Před 5 lety

    Man that roof rail removal was a pain!!! I wish someone would have loaned you a Fein Oscillating tool with the flat blade. Makes short work of a difficult glue seal removal like that. Love the Rig! Only thing I would love to see is windows!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      I didn't want to use a saw for fear of gouging the expensive panels. We refuse to add windows, Need to make a video on that I guess.

    • @alexworks9659
      @alexworks9659 Před 5 lety

      No worries! Fantastic rig! Hands down the slickest solar setup I’ve seen yet. I had a test bench setup using elec linear actuators to tilt panels L/R direction but not keen on weather sealing, weight and complexity. Your air system is genius and you can use air for all kinds of things. I used to dive and have scuba tank with hp/lp regulator and adapters for tires, shower systems and a few air tools.

  • @theinquisitor2786
    @theinquisitor2786 Před 3 lety

    Wow this guy is great. Friggin Canadians. I can say that cause my family is from Toronto (Akrey,Acri) and wife's from Quebec (Lalonde). Haha. Totally awesome ideas.

  • @Roll2Videos
    @Roll2Videos Před 10 měsíci

    Amazing job

  • @auspicious113
    @auspicious113 Před 4 lety

    hi from Australia the land of sunshine. i have a solar system but suffer the battery problem as you describe, too many dollars outlay so i have two 170 ah in parallel still suffer the sag as you say. looks like i have no choice but go lithium or put 10 batteries in thanks for this great video.

  • @WanderingBeast
    @WanderingBeast Před 6 lety +4

    wow, impressive. thanks

  • @zenohdcunha2203
    @zenohdcunha2203 Před 3 lety

    Brillant idea ....

  • @rob8823
    @rob8823 Před rokem

    This solar deployment reminds me of the space balls RV. Awesome build. Definitely see a business here. I think low profile container unit solar is another area that would sell.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před rokem

      What is there to sell? It's just 3 lengths of aluminum angle and some drawer slides...

    • @MusicFandom
      @MusicFandom Před 11 měsíci

      @@Everlanders I'd agree with you on what is there to sell but we are talking about the vanlife era. People are paying conversion companies $12k and up to cut and install a few sheets of plywood in their suburbans.....

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 11 měsíci

      Idiots...

  • @garyabc
    @garyabc Před 5 lety

    Wow! Very cool! 👍

  • @johngungortekin453
    @johngungortekin453 Před 5 lety

    Good job buddy I love that 🤙🤙

  • @1sheinz
    @1sheinz Před 5 lety

    Genius, ive been wanting to do the same thing but had only thought of manual control with pulleys and awning cord. i will deffinatly use your idea for air contro ŵith your permission of course. I think your only getting 800 watts because your main cable is sized too small. For 1400 watts it should be at least 2 gauge. Just a thought! I did my motor home 5 years ago with solar and lithium, the first year paid off the cost of solar and the third year paid off the whole works. The cost of gas running the generator is where i made my savings. It is amazing how easily and fast they charge the lithium and how all the appliances run like they are plugged into a power pole. AGAIN GENIUS Cheers Steve h.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      My main cable is 2x 4AWG welding cable...

  • @olhesty2196
    @olhesty2196 Před rokem

    Bro, all I wanna know is what can you not do? How did you get to this excellence? I wish I had what you have, all your projects are tops!

  • @DustyKorpse
    @DustyKorpse Před 6 lety +1

    Very cool!

  • @thecoincutter2116
    @thecoincutter2116 Před 4 lety +3

    Just for future reference next time use a vibration multitool to get between the silkoflex makes the job alot easier, great set up

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety

      Don't have one.

    • @chrislee1099
      @chrislee1099 Před rokem +2

      @@Everlanders I used a fin piece of wire like a cheese cutter works well, I used silkoflex 522 couldn't move it only been on less than 24hrs really works well

  • @williamkreth
    @williamkreth Před 3 lety

    Damn dude good stuff! Subbed

  • @livingworkingoutsidebox

    Wow just incredible

  • @joelwilkins8695
    @joelwilkins8695 Před 6 lety

    awesome setup!! I'm sure I'd be even impressed if I understood the tech speak! :) Question about the durability: mounted on the hard slides as they are, are you concerned about the panels being damaged over time by rough roads? Keep up the great content! Love the cartoon faces and the commentary!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety +2

      I have no concerns about the slides, they are not your grandma's rattel box slides, they are super solid 100% stainless, no plastic anywhere in these slides. Plus the air cylinder is pulling them in tight, so they are held super firmly.

  • @turtlezed
    @turtlezed Před 5 lety

    Great advert for Sikaflex ;¬)...need some on that knife handle....just found your channel 9/3/19 .... build in progress...love it...

  • @Alec9821
    @Alec9821 Před 4 lety +2

    I love your computer t-shirt.
    Where do I get one?
    Also a man who repairs his own electronics instead of just binning it. Good one.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety

      I got it years ago at ThinkGeek.com, but they've sold out to GameStop or something now. But there are lots of other people making it if you google the phrase.

  • @LilKillaKev5950
    @LilKillaKev5950 Před 3 lety

    Man this video is so awesome I want to setup something like this on my enclosed trailer. can you tell me what interface you are using to monitor your solar array and the setup? software etc... do you have video on that setup thanks

  • @shimes424
    @shimes424 Před 4 lety

    4:29 chassis as ground is inefficient
    You'll always have voltage drops across connections, and the chassis connection will always have a larger drop
    Stick with copper and gold plated brass. Most efficient at every power level
    But great work! Great ideas! Love it!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety

      Not the truck chassis, the Box Chassis, all 3/16 aluminum, TIG welded throughout, although a gold plated camper box sounds pretty nice...

  • @sherpadelgatos
    @sherpadelgatos Před 5 lety

    A fein tool with a sharp scraper could've helped.. i like your sliding solar system design. Nice goin

  • @iTrove
    @iTrove Před 5 lety

    Impressive fix.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      If you think that's good, you should see our last video where I wrecked it really good and managed to reflow a 48 pin QTFN package on the side of the road: czcams.com/video/7RdbXw5mJsA/video.html

  • @traveling.down.the.road56

    This is the video I wanted to see! Love this design and installation. Do you think that this amount of solar panels will be enough for most days of the year, with cloudy and rainy days figured in where you aren't getting full sun, or do you have the ability to add more panels (perhaps movable ground panels) to get even more solar production when it's overcast? I'm guessing that it would be easier and cheaper to add more solar panels to your system, than it would be to add additional LiFePo batteries. Myself, I'm looking at the "End of Year" sales to purchase the first components for a mobile solar system, even though I haven't begun to build my camping trailer and only have sketches and ideas of what I want, and my plans are to begin construction this Spring. Thanks for all of your videos, they are a big help to people like me who want to build our own.

  • @vanceandthelion1729
    @vanceandthelion1729 Před 4 lety

    Awesome!

  • @AustNRail
    @AustNRail Před 6 lety

    XT60 connectors usually used for RC model electric airplanes. Creatively done.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety

      Yup, did lots of RC planes back in the day, but never used these until now, Deans connectors were the new hotness back then.

    • @AustNRail
      @AustNRail Před 6 lety

      Everlanders hotness ha haven’t heard that in ages.

  • @Technodude255
    @Technodude255 Před 2 lety

    soo cool!!!

  • @yvairguy
    @yvairguy Před 5 lety +1

    Just met you in the Tractor Supply parking lot in Yucca Valley... if you ever have to do something like this again, get a small piece of cable or wire with a handle on both ends and you can "saw" through the adhesive down the length of what you are removing.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety +1

      I tried, SikaFlex adhesive is approximately the durameter of tire rubber... It's either skates off or grabs it so tightly you can't pull it... I tried a thin stainless cable and a fine solid wire, like music wire... I was going to try the survival wire saw, but I didn't want to damage the expensive composite panels.

    • @yvairguy
      @yvairguy Před 5 lety

      @@Everlanders I've used the method with 3M tape but I have never used SikaFlex, given your experience I guess I will when it's time to mount my panels... you also did exactly as I had planed with stacking your panels but never thought about making them automatic, I was thinking a rod like you see with pull out awning. Are you running separate charge controllers for the top and bottom panels, or I guess how do you manage the shading of the bottom panels when they are in the stored position?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety +1

      We use a SBMS100 charge controller which properly manages cell voltage for our lithium battery bank. It has two inputs, but even without that, the panels are wired in parallel so shaded cells or panels don't affect the others...

  • @000MACK000
    @000MACK000 Před 6 lety +1

    Awesome.

  • @jcf6597
    @jcf6597 Před 5 lety

    I'm planning on putting together an overlander rig also, where did you get the rims and tires? Are you happy with them? How long are the tires lasting?

  • @ruelllegado7305
    @ruelllegado7305 Před 5 lety

    brilliant!!!

  • @sba0147
    @sba0147 Před 4 lety

    You are an extremely clever bloke, can I ask what you used for the slide actuators and where you got them from. Have often thought about doing this, as someone has already stated, your a genius.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety

      I now have a Frequently Asked Questions post on this very topic on our website that gives lots of details... everlanders.com/FAQ-air-powered-slides/

  • @deaningram3
    @deaningram3 Před rokem

    That’s is badass!

  • @dejayrezme8617
    @dejayrezme8617 Před 6 lety +2

    Wow that is awesome!
    I suggested "solar awnings" a few times in various threads but to see it in action is awesome and sure requires some good engineering skills. This definitely could help make RV living more autonomous by increasing solar gain.
    What mechanism did you use for the retract? Linear motor?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety +1

      The retracts are powered by air cylinders, all the parts used are linked in the first video.

    • @dejayrezme8617
      @dejayrezme8617 Před 6 lety

      Oh wow I missed the first video then. Thanks!

    • @dejayrezme8617
      @dejayrezme8617 Před 6 lety

      Sorry, what first video?
      And how wide are the individual panels and your van roof? I've only ever found panels that are about 1m wide (39")

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety +1

      The first solar array video:
      czcams.com/video/cM5s4F-7AOk/video.html
      Our panel dimensions in Inches and mm:
      58.75 1492.25
      26.750 660.4
      1.875 47.625

    • @dejayrezme8617
      @dejayrezme8617 Před 6 lety

      Oh thank you kindly! It's been a while that's why I didn't find it ha.
      I've actually been looking for alternative dimension solar panels to fit more fully on a 2.55m wide box truck roof but those won't fit perfect either. Best solution I've found is to actually cut a 1m wide solar panel in half and resolder it. From what I've read it's relatively straight forward. Just cut a 1m wide solar panel into one 0.5m wide and connect new wires to the front/back and mind the voltages.

  • @osomxl
    @osomxl Před 5 lety

    Love the build series. A question regarding using the chassis of the solar array as a ground. Did you use some sort of braided strap from the panels to the chassis? I ask as because it is required in the industrial/utility scale plants I build as carbon fouling will occur between any bearing surfaces and would result in a) micro pitting of the bearing surfaces until failure, and b) loss of continuity and or intermittent voltage leading to spikes and all kinds of weird signals. If this wasn’t a problem, we could save millions of dollars in labor, stainless braided straps and half of the cost of copper cabling.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      The panels don't pass any current through the frame or slides. It all goes through the cables, and is grounded outside of the solar array assembly.

  • @1966cambo
    @1966cambo Před 4 lety +5

    While I agree you are VERY intelligent, I think for myself I would rather not ad to the complication of my systems, in other words K.I.S.S !
    I will do the same but will just pull the panels out manually so as to not heave to worry about air lines etc.
    Just my 2 cents......

    • @JaM_Mobil
      @JaM_Mobil Před 4 lety

      Thats what I was thinking, however, my panels are on top of a huge truck in about 3.9 m hight. Including a locking mechanism I expect it to be very hard to open it manually.

  • @rveurope
    @rveurope Před 5 lety

    Just seen your channel LOVE it 👍 nice set up, specially loved it when you soldered that SMT device with a flex coverlay as a protection for the rest of the circuit! How many amps did you harvest by the most part in a sunny day so far with 1,4 kw total Pv cap? ..
    If of interest: I run a 160 Ah Lipfos ( Super B) with 2 MT Cis panel flat mount they do max 10-11 amps summer one pm..but winter sun out still up to seven..yes I know I would need one more..but these 2 Mt Cis 90 wp do 2,5 amps even when over cast..well what is 2,5 amps? Nothing...The jocker would be my 2 parallel chargers and booster which can pump 50 amps in and that charges the batt in no time..my consumption pattern is coocking with up to 2 kw for 20 min day, esspresso machine 1,2 kW often, hairdryer 1,8 kw 10 min not every day., TV 32 inch often 4 hours, back fan at refrig all day, Alde recirculation pump few hours / day when cold out, water pump with 0,9 bar pressure storage for washing, dishes and cooking, Led lights at night..radio all day, 2 Notebooks, 2 Phones, 2 Tablets and some times drone recharge, cams and 2 e bikers recharge...so far fine..again one more panel would be great!..

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      We're traveling in Mexico now, getting 1250 watts peak, about 90 to 100 amps into the battery.

    • @rveurope
      @rveurope Před 5 lety

      @@Everlanders 👍 impressive thanks, my batt would be full in 1 h..neat ! Happy and safe travels 4 u guys!

  • @obiebrown
    @obiebrown Před 5 lety

    Love it...
    How is setup going after some time on road with vibration and so on?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      We're traveling full time, driving through Mexico now, in and out every day, no problems so far.

  • @scottlewis1098
    @scottlewis1098 Před 5 lety

    That is effing cool!

  • @greenftechn
    @greenftechn Před 5 lety

    I'm interested in the gear for the panel slides, and where these might be sourced. Nicely done!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety +1

      It's all in the description...
      czcams.com/video/cM5s4F-7AOk/video.html

    • @greenftechn
      @greenftechn Před 5 lety

      @@Everlanders Awesome, thanks. Nice to see your use of the Pi, too.

  • @dtmty
    @dtmty Před rokem

    I want to do something like this but in arragement horizontaly with flexible panels, this to also make a shadow to the van to reduce heat inside.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před rokem

      Be aware the flexible panels are not nearly as efficient, and the ones I've had crack after 2 years of sun exposure.
      The warranties are there to keep you quite until you give up...

  • @ThePrutkin
    @ThePrutkin Před 2 lety

    Love the design! What brand of stainless rails did you use? I am looking to do something similar on our sailboat. Do you think these rails would be OK in the harsh marine environment? thank you!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 2 lety

      The links are all in the description... They are 304 stainless, so I can't see why not...

  • @ninjasrus666
    @ninjasrus666 Před 5 lety

    I would really love any specs or further details about your solar rack. Mechanisms, motors, wiring, etc how to make it or where to buy it! It would be perfect for my off grid ambulance conversion. Please let me know!!!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      It's all in the description...

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      ... of the original video: czcams.com/video/cM5s4F-7AOk/video.html

  • @magamike1800
    @magamike1800 Před 5 lety

    dam that's kick ass.

  • @yxhankun
    @yxhankun Před 5 lety

    I used rework station too.

  • @charleslamb2214
    @charleslamb2214 Před 3 lety

    You have fixed our roof real estate problem! I'm going to skip the pneumatics but stack our panels. Question is what did you use for drawer rails? I found some on Amazon that are supposed to be rust resistant but everyone is telling me they will still rust...

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety +1

      Links are all in the description of the build video. czcams.com/video/cM5s4F-7AOk/video.html

    • @charleslamb2214
      @charleslamb2214 Před 3 lety

      @@Everlanders thanks and thanks for the awesome idea!

  • @andreicostin3994
    @andreicostin3994 Před 5 lety

    Ok mate, brilliant, although is it not affected by galvanic reaction? I'm trying to build my own RV and looking at how others have done it... I mean aluminium and steel...?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety +1

      I have limited contact between the steel and the aluminum and have used UHMW spacers when I can... No sign of problems yet!

  • @jedics1
    @jedics1 Před 5 lety

    Ive just begun a very similar project, I have an sbms120 on order and still deciding on which Batteries to get, eg. the 180ah you have or go up to the 400ah winstons. I have heard a few stories about the CALB having problems with quality control, how have yours been? Also what kind of Sikaflex did you use for the alloy on the roof, I just bought some 11fc and was not happy with its bonding of 2 pieces of alloy for a test.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety

      I've had no problems, our whole truck is bonded with SikaFlex 252 and the 207 primer...

    • @jedics1
      @jedics1 Před 5 lety

      @@Everlanders Ok thanks, I will have to look into that primer, the tests I have done trying to bond alloy have failed easily even with an alcohol clean and wire brush/drill scuffing both surfaces.

  • @Robbbbooo
    @Robbbbooo Před 3 lety

    Hey Jason, I am going to bond aluminum angles to our fiberglass RV as well. You seem to have good luck and experience with sikaflex bonding. Did you weight the solar panel angle mounts or does gravity work well enough?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety +1

      Gravity is more than enough, but be sure to scuff both surfaces, use the 206 primer and the correct sika 252... I used some random 2 sided tape in small sections to keep it from all squeezing out.

    • @Robbbbooo
      @Robbbbooo Před 3 lety

      @@Everlanders thanks. Some of the brackets will be near the radiuses edge of the camper roof. Is 252 pretty thick? Will it run down a radiused edge or stay in place?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety +1

      @@Robbbbooo Crazy thick... No chance it will run.Get or borrow a high quality electric or pneumatic gun. You'll crush the cheap tin gun trying to apply enough pressure to get it out.

  • @johncorlett3699
    @johncorlett3699 Před rokem

    some soapy water would help the knives cut the sicksflex. plus some sort of tension, like small wedges. how are the slides holding up to dust and grit ingress?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před rokem

      Throughout North America, Central America and well into South America and still going strong...

  • @glitter2086
    @glitter2086 Před 4 lety

    이 영상이 나에게 많은 도움이 되고 있습니다 감사합니다

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety +1

      다행 이네요, 시청 해주셔서 감사합니다!

  • @traveling.down.the.road56

    Hello again. Is there any way to get drawings of your solar panel mounting rails that you fabricated? I have ten 100watt solar panels that I want to install above my truck camper, with 6 panels always being exposed, and 4 panels being retractable like yours (two each side). My rack system will be attached to a lumber rack, and if possible, I'll also make the solar racking able to tilt up on either side, to maximize solar exposure and gain better energy production during the months where the Sun is lower toward the horizon.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před rokem

      There is no need for drawings, it's just 3 lengths of 3" angle aluminum and some stainless drawer slides...

  • @ruisvensson
    @ruisvensson Před 3 lety

    Good morning, I have a similar project but I go beyond: I'll keep a fixed set on the roof, I'll put another set on a slider that will be opened to the right (like a awning), and another set that opens to the left - all This to get enough energy to supply a huge battery bank on the chassis, to move 2 electronic engines (yes, 2 axes of traction). Crazy idea, right? But as it is a motor-house while loading, I will be enjoying the surroundings, writing, working ... and to reduce energy demand, the heating of the bath water will give you through a solar heater (sun we have a lot this way)

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety

      It's not a crazy idea, it's just very optimistic. It has been done several times before: czcams.com/video/pcj2lQwH7N4/video.html
      But they need to wait two days to charge the batteries for a very short drive... At times they have been at the side of the road for 2 weeks waiting for sun...

    • @ruisvensson
      @ruisvensson Před 3 lety

      @@Everlanders my project is a little more elaborate: to begin with, i don't intend to visit areas like alaska or tierra del fuego; and my idea is to travel every 15 or 20 days; and an air conditioner for the batteries; and a solar heater for bath water; divide the battery bank into 2, charging one side and spending the other

  • @yxhankun
    @yxhankun Před 5 lety

    Big yes, use raspi with python scripts to control stepper motors to slide out or in solar panel. Good job.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 5 lety +1

      I didn't use steppers because I needed the panels to default to retracted. I use air cylinders so that if the power is lost the retract by default.

  • @engramjadq
    @engramjadq Před 3 lety

    very informative video . i need to make this expanding frames made of Aluminum , so if i join your monthly channel can i get the full details & design calculations . also to build an off grid solar system to run one 1.5 ton AC unit , 1 TV , I small fridge and few LED lights ? thanks a gain

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety

      The full details are freely shared in the original video... czcams.com/video/cM5s4F-7AOk/video.html

  • @Colaaah
    @Colaaah Před 4 lety

    ​ Everlanders With using air-operated actuators, what happens if you lose compressed air whilst travelling? Will they stay put? I had this idea a few months ago for a fifth wheeler RV that we want to buy in about 6 months for fulltime living. The only difference that I was thinking for ours was to use gear DC operated actuators. I look forward to your thoughts on this?!?!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety

      I now have a Frequently Asked Questions post on this very topic on our website that gives lots of details... everlanders.com/FAQ-air-powered-slides/

  • @GeorgeLavrov
    @GeorgeLavrov Před 3 lety

    Hi Jason, so running this setup for a while, can you make a comment on what would be an appropriate wiring scheme for a similar four-panel (two ontop two) layout? Considering situations where only two or three panels may be active due to physical or environmental limitations. Thank you!

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety +2

      I have all my panels paralleled, this way if any one panel is shaded it doesn't take the others down with it. If you intend to series your panels for 24 volts or long wire efficiency, you'd want the top two paralleled with the bottom two.

    • @GeorgeLavrov
      @GeorgeLavrov Před 3 lety

      @@Everlanders Thanks, that I was thinking as well, series in pair horizontally, with parallel out. Any tips on how to better manage cable connection for the sliding panels, do you use cable management arms inside the panel frame to prevent cables to get jammed? Thanks again.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety +1

      No arms were needed in my case, 3 years of daily use and still no problems. I did make a video showing how my wires are run... czcams.com/video/0GDvu0AUrgs/video.html

  • @sul6an44
    @sul6an44 Před 4 lety

    JUST WOW

  • @Hitman-ds1ei
    @Hitman-ds1ei Před 4 lety

    Curious what you used between the stainless runners and aluminium sections to prevent galvanic corrosion

  • @millanferende6723
    @millanferende6723 Před 3 lety

    0:23 - what adhesive did you use to make it THAT strong? 😮 I'm just afraid anything, even with Epoxy, would just break off suddenly and eventually...
    Much appreciated for the video

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety +1

      Sikaflex 252 with 207 primer.

    • @millanferende6723
      @millanferende6723 Před 3 lety

      @@Everlanders thank you so much!

    • @johncorlett3699
      @johncorlett3699 Před rokem

      @@millanferende6723 preparation is the key, get it absolutely clean sikaflex can sometimes be too good! we use it in mining to seal gaps in armour plating in crushers, still there when the moly steel plates ave worn away

  • @paulhowes3788
    @paulhowes3788 Před rokem

    I know its a little late but a heat gun on the surface of the aluminium helps to release stikaflex.

  • @seijahydra6027
    @seijahydra6027 Před 6 lety

    so something i've been wondering about. was the ac always in that convienent out of the way spot? or did you have to remove stuff from the roof to fit all of this?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety

      We built the truck from scratch, from the ground up. So the air conditioner was never on the roof... If that's your question.

    • @seijahydra6027
      @seijahydra6027 Před 6 lety

      Everlanders sorry was thinking the thing infront of the solars was a AC unit. I've been looking into rv's tho on of my concerns is not having enough room to mount solars for my needs

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 6 lety

      Oh! Nope, that's the maxxair fan... Just a ventilation fan. www.maxxair.com/products/maxxfan/maxxfan.php

  • @french-9743
    @french-9743 Před 4 lety

    Your system is awesome. Is there a realistic way to get an even bigger panel surface?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety

      More Panels and More Slides...

    • @french-9743
      @french-9743 Před 4 lety

      @@Everlanders
      You mean one more floor? (I don't master English langage).

    • @french-9743
      @french-9743 Před 4 lety

      Do you think it would be possible to make a solid 3-storey installation by placing the panels perpendicular to the vehicle? There would be the total length of 1 panel above the void on each side of the vehicle.

  • @HimmelbergerBus
    @HimmelbergerBus Před 5 lety +7

    This is my kind of nerdery.

  • @khalidsaid2552
    @khalidsaid2552 Před 5 lety +1

    Great job.. can u run air conditioner on that solar?

  • @rickharms1
    @rickharms1 Před 4 lety

    I did the same. Dacian repaired mine.

  • @TimRiker
    @TimRiker Před 7 měsíci

    Have you considered flexible panels on the roof with one layer of slide outs above them? Have to keep the wiring from rubbing on the panels, but you'd get a lower profile. These are 100W panels, right? Considered upgrading to 200W panels? With that much on the roof you could remove the side panels.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 7 měsíci

      I would never consider flexible panels. These are 185 watts each, and with our new side panels we have 2500 watts and make just over 10kWh per day.
      czcams.com/video/lcck1ejlXt8/video.html

  • @lifeofintention4711
    @lifeofintention4711 Před 3 lety

    Wow, with all that solar, what MPPT charger do you use to add to the solar management system, the Victron (model here?)? Or a Morningstar?

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety

      None of the above. I guess you'll need to watch the whole video to get your answer.

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 3 lety

      ... there is no additional charge controller required, it's all handled by the SBMS100 shown at 8:25

    • @lifeofintention4711
      @lifeofintention4711 Před 3 lety

      I did, watched the whole one and then went to their website to learn more and then got confused lol. So went back to you as the horses mouth so to speak. Didn't understand how it handled the high amp charging current and did mppt, etc... anyway, perhaps not a comment question. Thanks again and really enjoying your channel!

  • @AskRemy
    @AskRemy Před 3 lety

    whenever trying to slice open such adhesive, keep spraying it with soapy water - blade will glide and slice faster - an auto glass installer knows what I am talking about

  • @harleyrdr1
    @harleyrdr1 Před 4 lety

    Would highway wind rattle the crap out of the lowers if not retracted? I expect so. That being said, is there an auto retract incase you forget in an emergency “get the heck out” situation? I expect that would be a fairly simple upgrade. Maybe triggered from the ignition wire? Just a thought. 😁

    • @Everlanders
      @Everlanders  Před 4 lety

      It's triggered to retract with the brake pedal, so they always come in when we start the truck. I also have an override switch so I can have them extended when we're stuck in traffic, moving slowly on smooth roads etc...
      But it's very sturdily built, we've probably driven a thousand kilometers or more with them extended, with no problems.

    • @harleyrdr1
      @harleyrdr1 Před 4 lety

      Everlanders - Wow, you have thought of EVERYTHING! 👍🏻 Excellent work my friend!