advice needed on installing solar panel connector at same time I install vent fan.

[Seeker]

has anyone installed solar panel wiring through their vent fan? I have decided to install a Maxx fan deluxe like this http://www.adventurerv.net/maxxfan-...rtsfeed_ppc&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=Froogle Is a connector available that can be installed at the same time that I could seal up some how and use when I get a solar panel. I am thinking of getting around a 250 watt panel and will probably install on cargo racks later. I would like to have the option of maybe depending on where I am at not always keeping on my van and place on a ground stand.

My main question is what connector to preinstall with the vent and the best way to install it?
Thanks A SEEKER

 

[SternWake]

It is really better to avoid connections where ever possible as they are resistance causing failure points waiting to happen.

Since most solar panels come with MC4 connectors nowadays, you could get a Mc4 cable of adequate length and gauge, cut it in half, run the leads to where the solar controller will go and have the MC4 connectors long enough to reach the cables coming off the future solar panel with the roof penetration somewhere along that route

Run the cables through grommets where they make the roof penetration, and protect the open ends of the MC4 connectors from moisture/oxidation in the mean time, and make sure they are not flapping around in the wind

 

[Seeker]

Thanks for info SternWake. I will just wait until I install panel and keep the run as short as possible and use grommets. I was thinking I might be able to have 1 less hole in the van. It doesn't really matter once I start chopping on the van who knows where it will stop!
A SEEKER

 

[Reducto]

Small holes are not that hard to patch up at a later date if you need to. I wouldn't worry too much about those. Just use a grommet as you say and follow it up with a bunch of silicone glue to keep water out.

Also, a connector is something that could be added later. Install the panel however you want and leave a little slack in the cable on the outside. Later on when you want to remove it just snip the wires. To reinstall, put on connectors and you're good to go!

 

[SternWake]

Depending on the thickness of the roof, these cord grips work great and make a good seal with no caulk required:

http://www.amazon.com/Arlington-LPC...F8&qid=1407107557&sr=8-28&keywords=cable+grip

 

[TucsonAZ]

Here was my solution for all roof connections:

 

[stude53]

TucsonAZ,
That looks like a really good solution.
Where did you find the clear plastic box?
How about a little narrative on how to?

Thanks,
Bob

 

[TucsonAZ]

TucsonAZ,
That looks like a really good solution.
Where did you find the clear plastic box?
How about a little narrative on how to?

Thanks,
Bob

This is the box I used and these are the wire glands I used for the MC4 cables but you could get them in many different sizes for other cable diameters.

The bottom of the box is drilled out to fit a $2 either 1 inch or 1 and 1/4 inch (can't remember now as I bought a few at the same time) electrical fitting you can find in any big box store. I had to cut the end off of the electrical fitting to leave just the hex you see in the middle of the box and the threads out of the bottom. I used plumbers tape around the entire bottom and followed that up with a very healthy helping of Dicor lap sealant.

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Here is a better photo of it before I installed it. Here is also a photo of the combiner/breaker box the wires go into. The three breakers on the left are for the three solar arrays and on the right are three breakers for accessories like the water pump, lighting and so on. They're all 125v din rail CBI QY (I think that's right) 15a DC breakers (not to be confused with ac) which a guy was selling new by that case of a dozen for $50 shipped. the box is made by...Iboco I think is the name and was $35 ish, they come in different sizes though.

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The photos.

 

[highdesertranger]

nice taz, I like, and a stole sterns abbreviation. highdesertranger