NOTE FROM SLIM: I am getting a lot of comments on this video, thanks. But I would really appreciate it if people would first read the other posts before making the same comments again and again. Three notes: 1) I am considering a new MPPT controller so thanks for those who provided useful info on them. 2) Lithium-Ion Batteries are NOT an option for me at this time as I travel on a very tight budget, plus I also travel in extreme temperatures. Glad they work for others but I will not be pursuing them until the price drops and they charge below freezing. 3) NO GENERATORS, Ever! I may block the word generator if I must explain every time why I will not use them!!!! 4) Renogy apparently changed their design to include grommets. Yay!!! 5) DO NOT INCLUDE LINKS IN YOUR POST PLEASE! They get blocked and I have no time to verify them. Thanks! SP
You're forgiven, Slim. Your 'transgression' was a temporary measure motivated by desperation, and you've taken steps to avoid having to resort to shore power in the future. Well done!
My wife and I absolutely love your videos and look forward to seeing them. We binge watched all of your videos and found you to be (in our opinion) the best of all boondocking videos on TH-cam. We anxiously wait for your videos each week and hope to meet you in the future. Keep up the great work and thank you for showing us the beautiful scenery and informative tips and tricks. Love your sense of humor. 😋
I would NEVER judge you Slim. We all have to do what we have to do at times. You had to plug in your A liner that is not a crime. I understand you want to be off grid but there are times that you might just have to plug in the camper and going on grid. Don't beat yourself up over this. We still love you no matter what. Keep up the good work and keep the videos coming. :)
I've given up choosing which of your videos to store for reference...you now have your own folder! I always enJOY your practical solutions... and the humor is greatly appreciated. Journey mercies.
I'm a huge van of "nomadic life" videos, but you are far and away THE best! Your efforts are truly appreciated. Even my husband is a huge fan! Learning a lot from you. Thanks so much!
I’m thinking of my 90 year old aunt living in her cottage in the west of Ireland . She was given solar panels ( installed) for her hot water heater and lights. The sun comes out a few times a year ( maybe) . I was shocked that they work and work well. Someone told me that they harness uv rays and the sun isn’t really needed. Just thought about that watching your video. Cheers again for a good show
I don’t even know you anymore! In all seriousness I just discovered you and your videos. They are top notch in the TH-cam world - in my opinion. Keep up the great work.
I’m givin’ her all she’s got Captain! It looks pretty wherever you are, I hope it stays sunny so you get all charged up. Enjoy your week and thanks for the video.
It might be just the old geezer in me, but I am thinking of starting the lifestyle, at 63, after having a lifetime of adventures on the road. I have about five million miles driving around the USA and am getting the call. Soon I can do it with an older RV. I lived in the cab of a big rig 28 days a month. I have been watching a lot of videos from all sorts of people online, but I enjoy your videos best. I doubt I will do a detached unit. I like having the living area and driving area together. You do good work. A craftsman in DIY, and a craftsman in producing videos too!
Hey Slim - Great video! I have those big window bubble skylights on my A-Frame popup so no room on the roof plus I like to park in shade if I can. My solution is a bit different and I have laptop, drone, tablet, etc. plus a 30qt Engel fridge. I use 2 Trojan T105 6 volt in series and Zamp portable 120 watt solar panels with a long extension so I can move them around. What saves me is an Ecoflow River 114,000 mAh lithium power bank and cheap 60 watt Suaoki folding solar panels. The River powers and charges all my electronics for days and I can move it anywhere to find the sun. It will run the fridge on it's own and keep up nicely with the 60 watt panels if I want to. I've gone several days with little or no sun and the camper batteries have never dropped below 75% because I use them sparingly. A small collection of power banks ($20.00 or so each) will power small fans, charge phones, etc. So I'm charging power banks every chance I get but never want for power. It's a math problem like you pointed out. Figure your amp draw and plan for worst case. The River is pricey and I found it on eBay for a really good price but there are other cheaper options. So far, I've never had to plug-in or use a generator. Happy travels!
Mr. Potatohead, thanks for coming and enjoying our great weather. Usually like that for 200 days a year. You have taught me enough about these fantastic machines that I think I am ready to do this with my son this summer. I've always been the computer geek dad, but I think you have given me the confidence to get out there and live it. Great stuff my friend, thanks for making great inspirational videos.
I recently saw a Y-Tube vid of a Australian outbacker whom had the " best " panels money could buy , Than he bought the cheapest Chinese ones to compare them , To his horror the cheap ones outperformed the branded ones in every way , He did the test 3 times over as he could not believe it . Ps a MPPT is really efficient if the open voltage of your panels is higher than 17 volt ! When you use the panels in series ( higher voltage ) its a must do . Hope this helps , Paul.
Slim, I have had similar issues with my aliner, not enough juice to power the meager needs of my gizmos. I tow with a Ford Escape, 2014 vintage, and it has factory installed inverter that I can plug the camper 110v line into. I can recharge the camper battery in short time by idling the escape while connected to the camper. You have found a solution with the two new panels, simple and doesn't require burning gas, which is great. The inverter is an alternate solution which has helped me out in the past.
Looks great Slim! With several cloudy days all you need to do is start your tow vehicle and charge your trailer battery using a set of jumper cables. I usually only need to run that dirty hot shaky smelly thing for about 1/2 hour at idle!
HQST panels are the same as Renogy, but with mounting holes, and they tend to be a couple bucks cheaper. Will Prowse has a good solar channel, and did some back to back testing of panels.
Will Prowse gets mentioned, seems like a bright young lad. Are there any videos of him testing in the harsh conditions of the wilderness? That would be a good reference for me. Thanks! SP
Slim Potatohead, Clowdy, overcast, sunny. Flex vs solid. Mono vs Poly. Various Poly comparison. Various Flex comparison. MPPT comparison. MPPT PWM comparison. Etc. Etc. Although admittedly not all conditions, does testing and comparisons no one else covers except in a superficial way, and communicates the data in a way that a broader range of audiences can use. As far as Will Prowse shedding light on a large range of solar topics usable by the common person, I cant find anyone even close.
Not to worry, Slim. Everybody loves your videos! The list of electrical things you use was very helpful at the end of this video. Thanks. Oh, and I have some Canadian blood in me. Love those geese!!!!
I realize I'm late to the party, but adding solar panels is the right solution. But I would not wire them in with your existing setup. I added two extra panels with an extra charge controller (pwm) in parallel with the first controllert to my battery with an SAE connection and extension cord. This allows me to clip and unclip it easily, and the extension cord allows me to move the panels to where the sunlight is, that way my camper is in the shade and my panels are in the sun. I may switch to a MPPT controller and wire them up so extra panels can be added in an extension cord in parallel too. I'm currently experimenting with cell booster technology as my wife and I set off to do some traveling. Enjoy the videos! Congrats on the new camper and frame!
I'm glad I watched your video. I also have 200 watts of solar on my RV and I am thinking of heading east next spring for a couple months. I have thought about adding another 200 watts just to deal with the low charging rate on bad weather days. Your video has confirmed my concerns and motivated me to do it. Thanks, and best wishes to you for safe travel.
I kept thinking there has to be a way to reduce your power needs until you got to the end and detailed which things you are using that need power. Eight hours editing your videos? Wow, but I really appreciate the effort, your segments are well-planned and elegant. Thank you! BTW, I live on the Oregon coast and yes, we have "issues" with sun in the winter months, but compared to the rest of the country I'll take our averages and be glad I'm here!
Break down and buy lithium batteries. 1. they can draw down to 0% without hurting them. 2. they are less then half the weight of AGM's. 3. they can take high amp's to recharge them, quickly. 4. they can be recharged 3,000 to 5,000 times, unlike AGM at 500 times. Battle Born are the best. Love your video's
One idea I have for attaching the solar panels to the trailer is use some sort of holder like those that hold mirrors to the wall. Those are plastic but you might find some or fashion some out of metal that will be wide enough and drill a hole in one side to attach the holder to the trailer but no hole in the solar panel edge on all 4 sides.
I love all of your videos. Even if it's about repairs which I know nothing about doing. I just wish your videos were longer because I love them more than anything!
Another great video..and we like the idea of calculating amp usage on a typical day! If correct, in one of your previous videos you had suggested plugging in for winter camping (to use a ceramic heater), but that may have been before you had the small wood burning stove idea. Ingenuity, and innovation are two words that so often apply to your channel!
Hahaaa. I never realized you “never” hooked up to power and I’ve been watching you for a long time. Personally, I do what makes me comfortable. We no longer have our class A RV, but are seeking a smaller camper which we will outfit with plenty solar panels and, probably lithium batteries. One thing (among many) I have learned watching you is to reduce using the generator! Thank you for your quality advice and videos, as well as your sense of humor.
Slim I agree with most commenters. I live in my van. An MPPT controller is so superior in low light conditions! On my set up I use an extension cord and some homemade adpators to be able to set my ground deploy panel up to 50 feet away. Out of the trees. I recommend a victron controller with blue tooth.
Hey Slim, i had my Avan out in the hot Australian summer, 104F each day and 86F each night.... Out boondocking as you call it I needed power too..... I took a small walk and found a farmer pumping stations with 3 phase power and single phase outlets,... Well, i happen to have packed my 100ft extension lead + another lead and guess what, they made the distance and everthing was sweet and dandy
I watch a LOT of youtube and have to say that your channel is my favorite by far. I am so happy I found your channel. I am preparing to go on an adventure next year and will be putting a lot of your techniques into my build. Unfortunately an Aliner is not something I can handle myself being 5'3 with a torn shoulder but that doesn't mean I still can't borrow your ideas.
Finding a trailer that suits your personal needs and budget is essential to sucessfull travel. I'm sure you'll find one perfect just for you. Thanks! SP
Slim... my suggestion.. a new MPPT controller and wire those panels in series-parallel to get them to 24V (or even better series them all to 48V when all 4 are connected). You will get more useable daylight hours and better use of low light situations since the MPPT will output the desired charge voltage while the panels are pumping out way more voltage and via Ohm's law, being converted to additional current on the battery side.. Also, a good MPPT controller will allow you to "over-panel" the controller while still limiting the maximum output current, exactly for situations like you experienced, or for Summer/Winter fixed array compensation.
Yep, morning coffee and unplugged with Slim! All is forgiven. Glad you didn't film it, the shock might have scarred me for life lol!! Thanks for all the fun. 🤗
My husband, two dogs, and myself fulltime. We don't let the weather totally dictate our travels. But when it's cold, rainy and overcast sometimes we need all the power we can get. I so get it!
Love your videos and appreciate the work you have to put in to make them. You've given me options for boondocking that I never considered. I'll be better prepared too! Thanks.👌
Hard stuff for this old brain to figure out. But thanks for the tips and suggestions. I will soon be learning for myself in a cargo trailer. Happy camping to ya.
I'm going to look into a solar panel for my little camper shell since I don't like paying to hook up and would like to do more off grid free camping. Can always depend on you for teaching us the how to do things that most of us can understand. Loved your confession LOL
For my teardrop, I've got a single 60w panel which charges my single battery. It gives me enough to run interior and exterior lights and the fantastic fan. Also enough to charge phones and keep the media center charged, which is just a Kindle Fire hung on the wall inside. I have a small folding 5w to USB panel that I use to charge phones and phone battery banks if I need a little more. So far so good.
Good information. But isn't you Jeep wired to recharge your batteries when driving? If so I'd HIGHLY recommend getting an auto start system installed on your Jeep if its an automatic transmission. You can use a fob to start it from a good distance, and if you spend a little more some systems can detect if your battery is getting low and automatically start the engine and recharge without you even pushing the button. Safe Travels Sir.
You should look into wind generators. They have come a long ways and would be great for night and stormy conditions. They make small ones you could store and put up when needed. Lastly, at 8:22, you are showing how the panels look, and there appears to be a directional antenna. Is that an antenna or am I just a wrong? If it is, what can you tell us about it?
Feels good to plug in once in a while, doesn’t it? Panels seem to be climbing in price. I used to use a 2 dollar/watt formula, but now I rarely see those prices except when Canuckle Head Tire has their ridiculous 70% off sales. Start planning for a lithium system now. I suspect lithium will be the best way to go for mobile applications. Thanks again for sharing your experiences Slim!
Slim Potatohead I see some good pricing on Amazon. I’ve never ordered any large items online, I still have some mental block, have to work on that I guess? 🤪
Another good video, Slim! Adding solar is on my list, but a lower priority. I'll probably go with 400w for my 30' TT. Only have 1 deep cycle marine right now but will probably go with lithium when the time comes. Never been boondocking yet...finding fresh water without having to tow that extra 350 pounds far is my concern. And I have a 3000w inverter generator, which weighs 130 pounds filled. Thanks and safe travels!
Thank You for breaking down the Techno Phychobabble into an easier to understand edition. Some people (myself included) just dont get electronic stuff. But this made it much easier to digest. Hope you are enjoying Texas. I just got back frome a month in Az. I thought if you while I was there. That was my first trip out for that length of time.
Hey Slim, you have been all over my neck of the woods here in Texas. You are by far my favorite channel, I appreciate all your wealth of knowledge and experiences, observations. I will hopefully be in my new to me rig soon!!! I have been searching for an accessible rig I can travel in independently...most important it’s got to be light and manageable so I can just “hook it and book it” as I like to say! So teardrop is my choices ( I think I have found a great one) as I have tried others but far too many campers have way too narrow doors that I can get in and out by myself from my wheelchair. I posted some of my struggles on my channel to share my experiences... anyway hope to run into you one day! Keep them coming!
Slim, Really have been enjoying your vlogs, with their excellent filming and narrative. And, in particular, I enjoy traveling off the beaten path with you. I seldom comment on videos unless I have something to contribute. So here goes. 'Gobbledegook' it is; let me try to clarify a little of what you tried to describe. Power is measured in watts, not amps; power [watts] equals current [amps] x volts. For example, my laptop's power supply [i.e. transformer] converts 120VAC into the 19VDC the laptop requires; and the laptop draw 2.4 amps at that 19VDC; so the power my laptop consumes is 2.4 x 19 = 46 watts; if the transformer is 75% efficient, it will consume 46/0.75 ~ 61 watts from that 120VAC outlet [0.5 amps]; the 25% efficiency loss [15 watts] manifests itself as heat [the power supply gets warm]. You can inventory all the devices which can potentially 'feed at the energy trough'; when you total their power needs you arrive at "installed-capacity-to-consume". Now you can look at what might be required from the "nameplate-capacity-to-produce" perspective which, in your case, is ~ 440 watts I believe. [If that power comes out @ 12 VDC, it'd be 33 amps; if it comes out at 24VDC, then it would be 18 amps.] Of course, you're never going to produce 440 watts of power [and their respective amperages] from 440 watts of nameplate-installed-capacity; first there's the issue of under which set of 'ideal' conditions the panels were rated and then there's the conversion efficiency [losses], the transmission efficiency [losses], etc.
slim, we all have done hook ups ,anyways heres and idea for you I have an aliner , ihave solar panels on the same side as you . what I did to add panels is on other side of trailer which as you know folds inside I used outdoor Velcro to attach panels and separate charge controller . you can remove them when not needed or can leave them on when trailer folds down ,I do not have a frame for these and I thought they would not produce as much but I was wrong . the trailer companies glue to skin of trailer which I didn't like so I used Velcro with separate controller works great
slim I have same controller too. the button on the left if you push it 3 times it gives you amps coming in,also you can set the high limit by pressing this button and you will eventually get a wrench on the screen with voltage you can set these manually but they are factory set to 14 volts .when your battery gets to full charge the controller automatically reduces amount going to battery so you don't over charge, as ive said I put panels on other side ,I mounted 2nd controller inside trailer by inverter and have mp4 plugs under seat , then I made a extension cord to attach to no. 2 controller and out power plug opening to panels . no holes and is very portable with the Velcro . anyways I wish I could contact you privately but don't know how . I hope this helps you .
Thank you for the video. You actually did help. A few questions I have were answered but lol that only led me to a few more questions. But truly I appreciate the video it helped a lot. Have a good one and safe travels!
Another shocking video. You got me all amped up after watching your vid. Hey, you gotta do whatcha gotta do. Always enjoy your videos. Keep up the great work, the puns, and be safe. Keep 'em comming.....don't leave us in the dark! OK I'll stop now.
I ran a heavy set of wires from my truck's battery to my camper battery, with a switch in the middle. If it's cloudy I throw the switch and drive 20 miles to a new campsite and by the time I get there the camper battery is charged.
We have 185W high voltage panel intended for a grid tie system with a no load voltage of about 70V, this is tied into a Morningstar MPPT controller and in a shaded camp site I get 35+ volts. For those days where there is little sun I have a 0 cable with Anderson PowerPoles with clamps on one end and tapped into the battery so that I can charge from the TV alternator. I have yet to use it. Using nonidentical batteries, one will drain the other unless they are separated. You would be ahead using panels in series with am MPPT controller.
Slim, how about mounting the new panels each side of the existing ones as a permanent fixture. Then have a shutter to close them off in very sunny weather. A bit of thought on the design and I am pretty sure you can come up with an elegant solution.
Hi Slim. Been following your adventures for a while and just subscribed. One comment would be to invest in some PV cable (25-50 ft (17m) and lay the auxiliary panels maybe in the sun when it's available. Of course this suggestion may be an issue for people tripping over it, but even if ONE panel was in FULL sun, you would be able to dramatically increase the energy harvest. Here in Michigan, sun is not always on top of the camper so I just take the panel to the sun.
NOTE FROM SLIM: I am getting a lot of comments on this video, thanks. But I would really appreciate it if people would first read the other posts before making the same comments again and again. Three notes: 1) I am considering a new MPPT controller so thanks for those who provided useful info on them. 2) Lithium-Ion Batteries are NOT an option for me at this time as I travel on a very tight budget, plus I also travel in extreme temperatures. Glad they work for others but I will not be pursuing them until the price drops and they charge below freezing. 3) NO GENERATORS, Ever! I may block the word generator if I must explain every time why I will not use them!!!! 4) Renogy apparently changed their design to include grommets. Yay!!! 5) DO NOT INCLUDE LINKS IN YOUR POST PLEASE! They get blocked and I have no time to verify them. Thanks! SP
We are not here to judge you, Slim, we're only here to live through you vicariously. 😁
LOL! Almost lost my coffee there, and I think 39 more of us are doing the same as you (and counting). Made my day Greg ;)
right on Greg O
Ditto 🌈
It's like deja'vu , watching you sit in a camper while it's raining. I feel like I'm there.... love it!
Slim, you are very funny. I enjoy each video you posted. Thank you for your time, energy, and generosity.
Loved the heartfelt "confession" at the beginning. Made me laugh. Oh, the horror!
Ahhh, my morning coffee and a potatohead video. A good day begins.
John Campbell
oh ya !
😂😂😂😂
You're forgiven, Slim. Your 'transgression' was a temporary measure motivated by desperation, and you've taken steps to avoid having to resort to shore power in the future. Well done!
My wife and I absolutely love your videos and look forward to seeing them. We binge watched all of your videos and found you to be (in our opinion) the best of all boondocking videos on TH-cam. We anxiously wait for your videos each week and hope to meet you in the future. Keep up the great work and thank you for showing us the beautiful scenery and informative tips and tricks. Love your sense of humor. 😋
I would NEVER judge you Slim. We all have to do what we have to do at times. You had to plug in your A liner that is not a crime. I understand you want to be off grid but there are times that you might just have to plug in the camper and going on grid. Don't beat yourself up over this. We still love you no matter what. Keep up the good work and keep the videos coming. :)
Slim OH ! NO ! you didn't ? Oh my goodness how could you do such a thing LOL !! Good for you for giving in to the pressure .
😂😂😂😂😂
I've given up choosing which of your videos to store for reference...you now have your own folder! I always enJOY your practical solutions... and the humor is greatly appreciated. Journey mercies.
Camping is all about doing what you want to do. Slim you are still my go to guy. Thanks again.
I'm a huge van of "nomadic life" videos, but you are far and away THE best! Your efforts are truly appreciated. Even my husband is a huge fan! Learning a lot from you. Thanks so much!
Plugged in? RE-VOLTING!!
😂😂😂
😂😂😂👍🏼
Don Foster Hahhaaa! Good one.
😂
AHHHH .... get it??? ..... TOoOoOo FuNnY! :D :D
I’m thinking of my 90 year old aunt living in her cottage in the west of Ireland . She was given solar panels ( installed) for her hot water heater and lights. The sun comes out a few times a year ( maybe) . I was shocked that they work and work well. Someone told me that they harness uv rays and the sun isn’t really needed. Just thought about that watching your video.
Cheers again for a good show
Part of the beauty of watching you is the education I get on a variety of pertinent subjects. Keep on camping n bringing us great content. Thx, Slim.
Nothing to apologize for... loving your awesome creativity .. you be you!
I don’t even know you anymore! In all seriousness I just discovered you and your videos. They are top notch in the TH-cam world - in my opinion. Keep up the great work.
I’m givin’ her all she’s got Captain! It looks pretty wherever you are, I hope it stays sunny so you get all charged up. Enjoy your week and thanks for the video.
Slim, I like how you take subjects like solar panels and make them easy to understand. Thank you
"I was another one of THEM" Man my sides nearly split, lol that was a great line. And thanks for another great video Slim.
LOL! I’m one of “them” every time I go camping and honestly not ashamed of it. To each his own. Enjoy your videos. Thanks
It might be just the old geezer in me, but I am thinking of starting the lifestyle, at 63, after having a lifetime of adventures on the road. I have about five million miles driving around the USA and am getting the call. Soon I can do it with an older RV. I lived in the cab of a big rig 28 days a month.
I have been watching a lot of videos from all sorts of people online, but I enjoy your videos best. I doubt I will do a detached unit. I like having the living area and driving area together.
You do good work. A craftsman in DIY, and a craftsman in producing videos too!
You are an Awesome Guy!! I watch your videos over and over.
I’m glad you show all the ups and downs of your adventures.
Hey Slim - Great video! I have those big window bubble skylights on my A-Frame popup so no room on the roof plus I like to park in shade if I can. My solution is a bit different and I have laptop, drone, tablet, etc. plus a 30qt Engel fridge. I use 2 Trojan T105 6 volt in series and Zamp portable 120 watt solar panels with a long extension so I can move them around. What saves me is an Ecoflow River 114,000 mAh lithium power bank and cheap 60 watt Suaoki folding solar panels. The River powers and charges all my electronics for days and I can move it anywhere to find the sun. It will run the fridge on it's own and keep up nicely with the 60 watt panels if I want to. I've gone several days with little or no sun and the camper batteries have never dropped below 75% because I use them sparingly. A small collection of power banks ($20.00 or so each) will power small fans, charge phones, etc. So I'm charging power banks every chance I get but never want for power. It's a math problem like you pointed out. Figure your amp draw and plan for worst case. The River is pricey and I found it on eBay for a really good price but there are other cheaper options. So far, I've never had to plug-in or use a generator. Happy travels!
Mr. Potatohead, thanks for coming and enjoying our great weather. Usually like that for 200 days a year. You have taught me enough about these fantastic machines that I think I am ready to do this with my son this summer. I've always been the computer geek dad, but I think you have given me the confidence to get out there and live it. Great stuff my friend, thanks for making great inspirational videos.
Great video. You explain things where we can understand. Thanks for taking the time to show this. Thanks for taking us along.
I like how talk about different things. Your a natural at making videos!
I recently saw a Y-Tube vid of a Australian outbacker whom had the " best " panels money could buy , Than he bought the cheapest Chinese ones to compare them , To his horror the cheap ones outperformed the branded ones in every way , He did the test 3 times over as he could not believe it . Ps a MPPT is really efficient if the open voltage of your panels is higher than 17 volt ! When you use the panels in series ( higher voltage ) its a must do . Hope this helps , Paul.
Slim, I have had similar issues with my aliner, not enough juice to power the meager needs of my gizmos. I tow with a Ford Escape, 2014 vintage, and it has factory installed inverter that I can plug the camper 110v line into. I can recharge the camper battery in short time by idling the escape while connected to the camper. You have found a solution with the two new panels, simple and doesn't require burning gas, which is great. The inverter is an alternate solution which has helped me out in the past.
Looks great Slim! With several cloudy days all you need to do is start your tow vehicle and charge your trailer battery using a set of jumper cables. I usually only need to run that dirty hot shaky smelly thing for about 1/2 hour at idle!
HQST panels are the same as Renogy, but with mounting holes, and they tend to be a couple bucks cheaper. Will Prowse has a good solar channel, and did some back to back testing of panels.
Will Prowse gets mentioned, seems like a bright young lad. Are there any videos of him testing in the harsh conditions of the wilderness? That would be a good reference for me. Thanks! SP
Slim Potatohead, Clowdy, overcast, sunny. Flex vs solid. Mono vs Poly. Various Poly comparison. Various Flex comparison. MPPT comparison. MPPT PWM comparison. Etc. Etc. Although admittedly not all conditions, does testing and comparisons no one else covers except in a superficial way, and communicates the data in a way that a broader range of audiences can use. As far as Will Prowse shedding light on a large range of solar topics usable by the common person, I cant find anyone even close.
Love your sense of humor Slim. Another great video! Thank you!
I really enjoy your videos. They are both informative, funny and real. :)
Not to worry, Slim. Everybody loves your videos! The list of electrical things you use was very helpful at the end of this video. Thanks. Oh, and I have some Canadian blood in me. Love those geese!!!!
We do TRULY LOVE YOU Slim and we ALWAYS WILL!!! Thanks for sharing your unique EXPERIENCES!!! Keep On Truckin', Dude!!!
I realize I'm late to the party, but adding solar panels is the right solution. But I would not wire them in with your existing setup. I added two extra panels with an extra charge controller (pwm) in parallel with the first controllert to my battery with an SAE connection and extension cord. This allows me to clip and unclip it easily, and the extension cord allows me to move the panels to where the sunlight is, that way my camper is in the shade and my panels are in the sun.
I may switch to a MPPT controller and wire them up so extra panels can be added in an extension cord in parallel too.
I'm currently experimenting with cell booster technology as my wife and I set off to do some traveling.
Enjoy the videos! Congrats on the new camper and frame!
I love any video that has to do with trailer modifications can't wait to see the next one!
I'm glad I watched your video. I also have 200 watts of solar on my RV and I am thinking of heading east next spring for a couple months. I have thought about adding another 200 watts just to deal with the low charging rate on bad weather days. Your video has confirmed my concerns and motivated me to do it. Thanks, and best wishes to you for safe travel.
It happens to everybody sooner or later. I just love your videos. Stay safe in your travels.
I kept thinking there has to be a way to reduce your power needs until you got to the end and detailed which things you are using that need power. Eight hours editing your videos? Wow, but I really appreciate the effort, your segments are well-planned and elegant. Thank you!
BTW, I live on the Oregon coast and yes, we have "issues" with sun in the winter months, but compared to the rest of the country I'll take our averages and be glad I'm here!
That storm stinks for solar power but a rainstorm in the woods is a relaxing sound. Take a nap!
after all this time watching you im finally getting an aframe for myself, glad ive gotten to see all your informative videos so far
Break down and buy lithium batteries. 1. they can draw down to 0% without hurting them. 2. they are less then half the weight of AGM's. 3. they can take high amp's to recharge them, quickly. 4. they can be recharged 3,000 to 5,000 times, unlike AGM at 500 times. Battle Born are the best. Love your video's
Yup, Battle Born, Relion and Life Blue are all good brands. Renogy are a bit too new to know how well they stand up in the long term.
Slim. I just LOVE your videos. You keep it real and with a sense of humor
Hysterical ! You’re forgiven Slim. Keep it coming.
One idea I have for attaching the solar panels to the trailer is use some sort of holder like those that hold mirrors to the wall. Those are plastic but you might find some or fashion some out of metal that will be wide enough and drill a hole in one side to attach the holder to the trailer but no hole in the solar panel edge on all 4 sides.
lol..... Scotty i need more Power.... I'm givin' her all she's got, captain! 😁😁😁
I love all of your videos. Even if it's about repairs which I know nothing about doing. I just wish your videos were longer because I love them more than anything!
You, sir, look like one happy camper! Thanks for posting!
Finely a video that says just the facts that you really need! Great Video!!!
Another great video..and we like the idea of calculating amp usage on a typical day! If correct, in one of your previous videos you had suggested plugging in for winter camping (to use a ceramic heater), but that may have been before you had the small wood burning stove idea. Ingenuity, and innovation are two words that so often apply to your channel!
Hahaaa. I never realized you “never” hooked up to power and I’ve been watching you for a long time. Personally, I do what makes me comfortable. We no longer have our class A RV, but are seeking a smaller camper which we will outfit with plenty solar panels and, probably lithium batteries. One thing (among many) I have learned watching you is to reduce using the generator! Thank you for your quality advice and videos, as well as your sense of humor.
Slim I agree with most commenters. I live in my van. An MPPT controller is so superior in low light conditions! On my set up I use an extension cord and some homemade adpators to be able to set my ground deploy panel up to 50 feet away. Out of the trees. I recommend a victron controller with blue tooth.
Hey Slim, i had my Avan out in the hot Australian summer, 104F each day and 86F each night.... Out boondocking as you call it
I needed power too.....
I took a small walk and found a farmer pumping stations with 3 phase power and single phase outlets,...
Well, i happen to have packed my 100ft extension lead + another lead and guess what, they made the distance and everthing was sweet and dandy
I watch a LOT of youtube and have to say that your channel is my favorite by far. I am so happy I found your channel. I am preparing to go on an adventure next year and will be putting a lot of your techniques into my build. Unfortunately an Aliner is not something I can handle myself being 5'3 with a torn shoulder but that doesn't mean I still can't borrow your ideas.
Finding a trailer that suits your personal needs and budget is essential to sucessfull travel. I'm sure you'll find one perfect just for you. Thanks! SP
We love your videos! You are a funny guy and show us a lot of places and you travel a lot. I want to eventually get a Aliner camper as well.
Slim... my suggestion.. a new MPPT controller and wire those panels in series-parallel to get them to 24V (or even better series them all to 48V when all 4 are connected). You will get more useable daylight hours and better use of low light situations since the MPPT will output the desired charge voltage while the panels are pumping out way more voltage and via Ohm's law, being converted to additional current on the battery side.. Also, a good MPPT controller will allow you to "over-panel" the controller while still limiting the maximum output current, exactly for situations like you experienced, or for Summer/Winter fixed array compensation.
_"over-panel" the controller_
Yes sir, that's how I do it here in the wet south east, especially with the price of panels compared to batteries.
Another great video Slim. Yup, hard to get away from the need for power.
Yep, morning coffee and unplugged with Slim! All is forgiven. Glad you didn't film it, the shock might have scarred me for life lol!! Thanks for all the fun. 🤗
Nice pace .easy to watch. Funny too.
My husband, two dogs, and myself fulltime. We don't let the weather totally dictate our travels. But when it's cold, rainy and overcast sometimes we need all the power we can get. I so get it!
Who am I to question a Canadian, but I believe those were Canada Geese, hard to tell if they were Canadian ; )
They had a maple leaf on their epaulettes. You would have needed high powered binoculars to see that.
But did they sing Terrence and phillip songs?
I was watching Jeopardy and they showed one. The contestant said "What is a Canadian Goose?" and he lost.
Love your videos and appreciate the work you have to put in to make them. You've given me options for boondocking that I never considered. I'll be better prepared too! Thanks.👌
Hard stuff for this old brain to figure out. But thanks for the tips and suggestions. I will soon be learning for myself in a cargo trailer. Happy camping to ya.
I'm going to look into a solar panel for my little camper shell since I don't like paying to hook up and would like to do more off grid free camping. Can always depend on you for teaching us the how to do things that most of us can understand. Loved your confession LOL
For my teardrop, I've got a single 60w panel which charges my single battery. It gives me enough to run interior and exterior lights and the fantastic fan. Also enough to charge phones and keep the media center charged, which is just a Kindle Fire hung on the wall inside. I have a small folding 5w to USB panel that I use to charge phones and phone battery banks if I need a little more. So far so good.
Good information. But isn't you Jeep wired to recharge your batteries when driving? If so I'd HIGHLY recommend getting an auto start system installed on your Jeep if its an automatic transmission. You can use a fob to start it from a good distance, and if you spend a little more some systems can detect if your battery is getting low and automatically start the engine and recharge without you even pushing the button.
Safe Travels Sir.
What a funny part!! Rain begins to fall. Slim: "It's an embarrassment . . We'll talk about it later." Ha! Ha.
You should look into wind generators. They have come a long ways and would be great for night and stormy conditions. They make small ones you could store and put up when needed.
Lastly, at 8:22, you are showing how the panels look, and there appears to be a directional antenna. Is that an antenna or am I just a wrong? If it is, what can you tell us about it?
Hi Nick, yes I am looking into wind, although it wouldnt be much help right now. The directional antenna will likely be in a future video. Thanks! SP
Innovative and highly practical solution to insufficient power. Well done. Thank you for the video. Lots to think about.
Love your posts. Informative and infused with your wonderful humour.
Feels good to plug in once in a while, doesn’t it?
Panels seem to be climbing in price. I used to use a 2 dollar/watt formula, but now I rarely see those prices except when Canuckle Head Tire has their ridiculous 70% off sales.
Start planning for a lithium system now. I suspect lithium will be the best way to go for mobile applications.
Thanks again for sharing your experiences Slim!
I paid $112 each for those 100WChinese panels, free delivery and no tax. Prices have dropped drastically! SP
Slim Potatohead I see some good pricing on Amazon. I’ve never ordered any large items online, I still have some mental block, have to work on that I guess? 🤪
Another good video, Slim! Adding solar is on my list, but a lower priority. I'll probably go with 400w for my 30' TT. Only have 1 deep cycle marine right now but will probably go with lithium when the time comes. Never been boondocking yet...finding fresh water without having to tow that extra 350 pounds far is my concern. And I have a 3000w inverter generator, which weighs 130 pounds filled. Thanks and safe travels!
LOL, I love the beginning! Great info, also. Thanks.
Always enjoy this channel-
Thanks for the efforts and approach to your content-
“.... Ominous clouds of doom... “
Classic.
Thank You for breaking down the Techno Phychobabble into an easier to understand edition. Some people (myself included) just dont get electronic stuff. But this made it much easier to digest. Hope you are enjoying Texas. I just got back frome a month in Az. I thought if you while I was there. That was my first trip out for that length of time.
Hey Slim, you have been all over my neck of the woods here in Texas. You are by far my favorite channel, I appreciate all your wealth of knowledge and experiences, observations. I will hopefully be in my new to me rig soon!!! I have been searching for an accessible rig I can travel in independently...most important it’s got to be light and manageable so I can just “hook it and book it” as I like to say! So teardrop is my choices ( I think I have found a great one) as I have tried others but far too many campers have way too narrow doors that I can get in and out by myself from my wheelchair. I posted some of my struggles on my channel to share my experiences... anyway hope to run into you one day! Keep them coming!
Slim,
Really have been enjoying your vlogs, with their excellent filming and narrative. And, in particular, I enjoy traveling off the beaten path with you.
I seldom comment on videos unless I have something to contribute. So here goes.
'Gobbledegook' it is; let me try to clarify a little of what you tried to describe.
Power is measured in watts, not amps; power [watts] equals current [amps] x volts.
For example, my laptop's power supply [i.e. transformer] converts 120VAC into the 19VDC the laptop requires; and the laptop draw 2.4 amps at that 19VDC; so the power my laptop consumes is 2.4 x 19 = 46 watts; if the transformer is 75% efficient, it will consume 46/0.75 ~ 61 watts from that 120VAC outlet [0.5 amps]; the 25% efficiency loss [15 watts] manifests itself as heat [the power supply gets warm].
You can inventory all the devices which can potentially 'feed at the energy trough'; when you total their power needs you arrive at "installed-capacity-to-consume". Now you can look at what might be required from the "nameplate-capacity-to-produce" perspective which, in your case, is ~ 440 watts I believe. [If that power comes out @ 12 VDC, it'd be 33 amps; if it comes out at 24VDC, then it would be 18 amps.] Of course, you're never going to produce 440 watts of power [and their respective amperages] from 440 watts of nameplate-installed-capacity; first there's the issue of under which set of 'ideal' conditions the panels were rated and then there's the conversion efficiency [losses], the transmission efficiency [losses], etc.
ROTFL! Very much enjoyed the opening! Hope the new panels hold up well for you under limited usage plan.
slim, we all have done hook ups ,anyways heres and idea for you I have an aliner , ihave solar panels on the same side as you . what I did to add panels is on other side of trailer which as you know folds inside I used outdoor Velcro to attach panels and separate charge controller . you can remove them when not needed or can leave them on when trailer folds down ,I do not have a frame for these and I thought they would not produce as much but I was wrong . the trailer companies glue to skin of trailer which I didn't like so I used Velcro with separate controller works great
slim I have same controller too. the button on the left if you push it 3 times it gives you amps coming in,also you can set the high limit by pressing this button and you will eventually get a wrench on the screen with voltage you can set these manually but they are factory set to 14 volts .when your battery gets to full charge the controller automatically reduces amount going to battery so you don't over charge, as ive said I put panels on other side ,I mounted 2nd controller inside trailer by inverter and have mp4 plugs under seat , then I made a extension cord to attach to no. 2 controller and out power plug opening to panels . no holes and is very portable with the Velcro . anyways I wish I could contact you privately but don't know how . I hope this helps you .
Good job! You make it work, no matter what problem you have. Excellent work!
Thank you for the video. You actually did help. A few questions I have were answered but lol that only led me to a few more questions. But truly I appreciate the video it helped a lot. Have a good one and safe travels!
I was expecting something horrible during the confession. Lol. WE STILL LOVE YOU SLIM. DON'T LET THE HOOK UP BUG YOU.
Another shocking video. You got me all amped up after watching your vid. Hey, you gotta do whatcha gotta do. Always enjoy your videos. Keep up the great work, the puns, and be safe. Keep 'em comming.....don't leave us in the dark! OK I'll stop now.
LOL :)
No worries Slim... Just header on over to the Slabs and that craftsmanship will fit right in!!!... Lol!!!....
Keep on keeping on Slim!😁👍👍
Forgot to add, but please consider doing a Q&A video with your viewers. We can submit questions in the comments section. Thanks again!
Keep on A-lining, bud’! Love your videos!
Slim is the best.😂💯👍
That chair 😹. It makes me giggle.... ☮️💜😺
Great information, Slim. Always entertaining videos. Safe travels.
Slim you rock. I Enjoy yer content and honesty. All is forgiven.
“One of them” would have the $500k motor home and the cheapest loudest generator all night. You have a great, subtle sense of humor.
Mr. Slim..you are sooooo funny. What a great actor! Thanks for all the great information in such an entertaining way. :-)
I ran a heavy set of wires from my truck's battery to my camper battery, with a switch in the middle. If it's cloudy I throw the switch and drive 20 miles to a new campsite and by the time I get there the camper battery is charged.
We have 185W high voltage panel intended for a grid tie system with a no load voltage of about 70V, this is tied into a Morningstar MPPT controller and in a shaded camp site I get 35+ volts. For those days where there is little sun I have a 0 cable with Anderson PowerPoles with clamps on one end and tapped into the battery so that I can charge from the TV alternator. I have yet to use it. Using nonidentical batteries, one will drain the other unless they are separated. You would be ahead using panels in series with am MPPT controller.
Slim, how about mounting the new panels each side of the existing ones as a permanent fixture. Then have a shutter to close them off in very sunny weather. A bit of thought on the design and I am pretty sure you can come up with an elegant solution.
Hi Slim. Been following your adventures for a while and just subscribed. One comment would be to invest in some PV cable (25-50 ft (17m) and lay the auxiliary panels maybe in the sun when it's available. Of course this suggestion may be an issue for people tripping over it, but even if ONE panel was in FULL sun, you would be able to dramatically increase the energy harvest. Here in Michigan, sun is not always on top of the camper so I just take the panel to the sun.