fixing solar panels to coachroof

[andrewbartlett]

I am fixing a new solar panel to the coachroof of my boat. Does anyone know the best fixative if it is to be stuck which I believe is an option. The panel does have holes for studs if I go down that route. Also is it advisable to protect the cable attatchment point and possably side seams with some kind of sikaflex to protect it?

 

[fireball]

We just used 4 self tappers into the sliding hatch garage. A bit of sealant around each screw to prevent water from coming through. Other than that nothing on the panel itself.
The cable runs back, under the mainsheet traveller (coach roof mounted) and then behind the sprayhood where it goes through into the boat via a waterproof gland. Behind the sprayhood was a deliberate act to protect it as much as possible.

If fixing down I'd use dabs of suitable sikaflex along the sides plus may be a few in the center ... but would worry that a green one would get under it and wash it off .. hence the screws!

 

[VicS]

The instructions that came with the first one I had were to seal it around all four edges as well as screwing it down.

When it failed it was a hell of a job to remove it ... broke it into numerous pieces getting it off ... and I'd only used silicone.


The replacement is a semiflexible one with grommets for the fixing screws The grommets hold it a few mm clear of the surface so not really possible to seal it like the old one.

I used pan head machine screws into tapped holes in the grp. I put a nut on the inside as well... so it cannot be stolen without access to the inside of the boat to remove the nuts. The tapped holes made single handed installation easier.

 

[fireball]

The tapped holes made single handed installation easier.

and possible where you can't access the underside!

 

[saxonpirate]

I certainly wouldn't bed it down on sikaflex. Better to screw or use the special small rebated plastic blocks that clamp down the edge. These are screwed of course and it's a method Sunware panels use and recommend.