Solar 160 w? vs Dual 6V Lifeline AGM batteries? why is the solar costly?

[Jim Bennett]

One of the biggest challenges with a trailer roof tilt mount would be accessing it. It would require bringing along a bulky ladder of some sort.

[Greg A]

Just back the truck alongside and stand in the bed. I'll bet the location they mount the panel in on the 19 it could be reached standing on the bumper.

[cpaharley2008]

I had a hard time reaching my solar when using a 8' step ladder, I doubt a truck bumper would work. Maybe the new ones mounted on rear are more accessible, but anyplace else, forgetaboutit.....

[Jim Bennett]

Plus, most people seem to use SUV's, so not a good option. As well, with many sites it would not be possible to drive alongside the trailer anyway.

I do like the idea of being able to aim it though. I like Ron's solution, but unless I did something like that on the rear of the 5.0, it would be a no go.

[kvermeulen]

Originally Posted by Jim Bennett

One of the biggest challenges with a trailer roof tilt mount would be accessing it. It would require bringing along a bulky ladder of some sort.

On the 5.0 ta the panels are already at a pretty good tilt due to the roof shape.
ken

[Greg A]

Currently I don't have a 19 to look at to see the options, but tilt mounts are commonly used on rv roof mounted solar panels, so folks that do use them must have accessibility figured out. Might be more doable on different Escapes than others.
Mainly was curious if anyone out there had been able to rig a tilt mount system to the factory setup on an Escape?

[Jim Bennett]

Originally Posted by kvermeulen

On the 5.0 ta the panels are already at a pretty good tilt due to the roof shape.
ken

So then, if I reposition the trailer a few times a day, I will achieve maximum gain?

[Vermilye]

Originally Posted by Jim Bennett

One of the biggest challenges with a trailer roof tilt mount would be accessing it. It would require bringing along a bulky ladder of some sort.

I carry one of these in a 5" fence post. They make a 6' version that would fit under a 21' or 5.0TA.

There is also a 7' version, but that may be too long for the width of a 5.0TA..

[Jim Bennett]

Originally Posted by Vermilye

I carry one of these in a 5" fence post. They make a 6' version that would fit under a 21' or 5.0TA.

There is also a 7' version, but that may be too long for the width of a 5.0TA..

Velly interestink!
Thanks for the link.

[AKCamper]

I have a question, on the 19 Escape I have seen trailers like "Past Tents" with a solar panel on the rear of the trailer and others with the panel between the AC and the Maxi fan. Where does ETI mount it on a 19? Also, how hard would it be to add a panel and run two 10 gauge wires from a panel to the compartment where the breaker panel is mounted (where I want a controller mounted - close to the batteries)?? I think I really need to buy a plane ticket and go to the factory.

[rbryan4]

Originally Posted by AKCamper

I have a question, on the 19 Escape I have seen trailers like "Past Tents" with a solar panel on the rear of the trailer and others with the panel between the AC and the Maxi fan. Where does ETI mount it on a 19? Also, how hard would it be to add a panel and run two 10 gauge wires from a panel to the compartment where the breaker panel is mounted (where I want a controller mounted - close to the batteries)?? I think I really need to buy a plane ticket and go to the factory.

Visiting the factory is always a good way to get all your questions answered, take measurements, plan options, and even get a tour.

On Past Tents as well as all 19s with the 160W panel, the panel is installed to the rear. They used to install a 95W panel closer to the middle. The 160W panel is larger and can't fit there like the 95W.

With the new 150W panel installed by Escape, its basically the same size as the 160W, so its installed toward the rear as well.

[Toymaker]

Originally Posted by Jim Bennett

One of the biggest challenges with a trailer roof tilt mount would be accessing it. It would require bringing along a bulky ladder of some sort.

I chose a bit bigger (100 watt) panel than needed and flat mounted it knowing the sun angle would often be less than ideal. Plenty of energy to keep me topped off each afternoon.

John

[cpaharley2008]

The newer, larger panels are on the rear, the older, smaller ones are between a/c and vent, amidship.

[rbryan4]

Originally Posted by cpaharley2008

The newer, larger panels are on the rear, the older, smaller ones are between a/c and vent, amidship.

Kinda what I said Jim, although you said it more succinctly.

[lancenadine]

Originally Posted by rbryan4

Visiting the factory is always a good way to get all your questions answered, take measurements, plan options, and even get a tour.

We visited one too many times and ended up in a 19' when we had decided upon a 17B.

[Vermilye]

Originally Posted by AKCamper

I have a question, on the 19 Escape I have seen trailers like "Past Tents" with a solar panel on the rear of the trailer and others with the panel between the AC and the Maxi fan. Where does ETI mount it on a 19? Also, how hard would it be to add a panel and run two 10 gauge wires from a panel to the compartment where the breaker panel is mounted (where I want a controller mounted - close to the batteries)?? I think I really need to buy a plane ticket and go to the factory.

When I added my second panel on my 17 (I have the Escape optional 95 watt panel on the rear & an added 100 watt panel on the front) I used MC4 Branch Connectors to combine both panels on the roof. Some photos at the bottom of my Trailer Modifications Page.

[Losangeles]

Originally Posted by cpaharley2008

or leave the generator at home, get the factory package with dual sixers and have them install a tap for your portable panel. Other than a/c, you would not need a generator.

This is what I think I will do.

Great idea.

thanks.

[Santiago]

Originally Posted by Losangeles

a sealed AGM Lifeline GPL-27T battery. Sealed, high performance. Works great!

My question is…. this is a $300 battery (ouch)

Hello John,

A LifeLine 12v 27T is 20hr rated at 100 AH.
(2) Lifeline 6v 4CT costs $548 delivering 220AH at the Costa Mesa CA dealer I went to today. This is pick up cost.

Today, I bought (2) LifeLine 6v 6CT both for $690 producing 300 AH. I will have these 2 installed some time next week. After its all working, I expect to add (2) LineLine 6v 6CT for a total of 520 AH.

Deka brand is well regarded and sold by Wallmart/Sams. A lot less $ and has good reputation.

As you might know, I now have the classic 21ft. The initial (2) 300AH batteries are going in next week, one under the sink cabinet between the two wheel wells and the other underneath the refrigerator, almost between the wheel wells. When I add two more 6 volts units I can still add one under sink cabinet and other under closet. Alternatively, both smaller 6v units ( 4CT ) under dinette seat on street side as close to the wheel well as possible. Unless you open the cabinet doors you will not know the house batteries are there.

I am with you, zero maintenance, no corrosive fumes and minimal discharge rate when stored unlike wet cells that requires trickle charge. Problem is their initial cost but tempered by their much longer life, they could be cheaper in the long run.

[Losangeles]

Hey Santiago

thanks so much for the good info. Much appreciated.

Your battery setup will be impressive!

I loved having the sealed AGM battery in the Casita (now sold) .... especially as the Casita's battery nook was a giant pain to get the battery in and out of for maintenance.

The Escape 21' sure does have much easier battery compartment access, and I already own the hydrometer and the safety glasses and goggles.

We decided to put the cash towards a second roof solar panel, installed by ETI.... ans having 2, in good sun, means the fridge can pretty much run on dual solar + tug power, as we tow, in good weather, not in the winter.....

That is my preference.

Whenever the stock dual 6v need to be replaced i'll look seriously at dual 6V AGM at that time.

cheers,

John

Originally Posted by Santiago

Hello John,

A LifeLine 12v 27T is 20hr rated at 100 AH.
(2) Lifeline 6v 4CT costs $548 delivering 220AH at the Costa Mesa CA dealer I went to today. This is pick up cost.

Today, I bought (2) LifeLine 6v 6CT both for $690 producing 300 AH. I will have these 2 installed some time next week. After its all working, I expect to add (2) LineLine 6v 6CT for a total of 520 AH.

Deka brand is well regarded and sold by Wallmart/Sams. A lot less $ and has good reputation.

As you might know, I now have the classic 21ft. The initial (2) 300AH batteries are going in next week, one under the sink cabinet between the two wheel wells and the other underneath the refrigerator, almost between the wheel wells. When I add two more 6 volts units I can still add one under sink cabinet and other under closet. Alternatively, both smaller 6v units ( 4CT ) under dinette seat on street side as close to the wheel well as possible. Unless you open the cabinet doors you will not know the house batteries are there.

I am with you, zero maintenance, no corrosive fumes and minimal discharge rate when stored unlike wet cells that requires trickle charge. Problem is their initial cost but tempered by their much longer life, they could be cheaper in the long run.

[Santiago]

Originally Posted by Losangeles

We decided to put the cash towards a second roof solar panel, installed by ETI.... ans having 2, in good sun, means the fridge can pretty much run on dual solar + tug power, as we tow, in good weather, not in the winter.....

John,

Good choices, solar setup weighs way less than bigger battery.