Mounting solar panels on side guard rails - any tips and experiences?

[SimonKNZ]

Our installation is exactly as you describe and works a treat. It was a straightforward DIY job and I got all the SS components online from Seascrew. Rather than rely on the grub screws to keep the end caps in place, I had them welded (the only non DIY bit). I thought that the NOA brackets may need some support but that hasn’t proven necessary. I wired my panels in parallel (to an MPPT controller) as given the locations, one panel can be in shade, especially when the Bimini is rigged).

What fittings did you use to attach the horizontal tube to the stanchions? I'm keen to do this on my Bav, but the stanchions are tapered at the top. Where is your horizontal tube in relation to the top guardwire?

 

[coopec]

Universal Solar Panel Mount

Sale price
$201.00





I wonder whether smaller panels but adjustable on two planes would be the way to go?

 

[geem]

Universal Solar Panel Mount

Sale price
$201.00

I wonder whether smaller panels but adjustable on two planes would be the way to go?

Not if you want good output. True you can adjust them but are you going to be onboard all day? Even if you are, will you?
We have four 180w panels on our guardrails. Size matters? peak output is 52amp at 12v

 

[coopec]

Not if you want good output. True you can adjust them but are you going to be onboard all day? Even if you are, will you?
We have four 180w panels on our guardrails. Size matters? peak output is 52amp at 12v

But on my ketch I don't have much room for solar panels. What I have got I have to make the most of it.

 

[geem]

But on my ketch I don't have much room for solar panels. What I have got I have to make the most of it.

I have a ketch. 720w on guardrails

 

[coopec]

I have a ketch. 720w on guardrails

Yes geem I've previously noted your comments on earlier threads (and seen photos you have uploaded (?)

720w Phew!!

In support of solar

 

[geem]

Yes geem I've previously noted your comments on earlier threads (and seen photos you have uploaded (?)

720w Phew!!

In support of solar

Increasing from the previous 340w we had was a game changer for us.

 

[Kelpie]

I've mounted 100w panels this way very simply, using bulldog clips straight through the aluminium frame of the panels, on to the guardwire. It did put a wee bit of sag in to the wire but no more than tying on a fender.
Hardest part was getting the nuts on- the depth of the frame isn't enough for a socket handle- but I reckon a ratchet a spanner would have solved that one.

I was fortunate to have a high point each side of the stern (an antenna mast and a defunct wind gen pole) and I just used light line to hold the panels up to this.