Cougar OTG Solar and Inverter Prep Package with Josh the RV Nerd

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 พ.ย. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 95

  • @herb7877
    @herb7877 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Josh: EXCELLENT presentation! I’ve used solar for ~3 years. Watched a lot of you tubes and read a lot before and still on the subject. I started with 1 -100 watt panel and now use 2. My only use is for battery charging and a small 400 watt inverter for laptop. One must remember that unless the panel is in full sun and angled correctly you will not receive full power. Cloudy, or shady or rainy days provide very little to none. We boondock about 75% of the time and carry a small inverter generator as a backup. It’s necessary during Fall & wintertime if you’re out more than a couple of days. Your gas furnace eats up a lot of power.

  • @TheDealHunter
    @TheDealHunter 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Finally a manufacturer with a solar package that actually mounts the charge controller near the batteries! Most mount the charge controller near the other "switches" in the RV and the batteries never get fully charged due to the voltage drop between the charge controller and the batteries.

  • @richardkoch8752
    @richardkoch8752 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Glad that Cougar is making positive steps to expand the capability of "off the grid" camping. Their solar package is a good basic off the grid starter package. Love that Cougar makes the same good things on their TT's as the fiver's. Good vid Josh!

    • @markh8410
      @markh8410 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Does the system have an mppt charge controller or the ability to add one easily?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@markh8410 Yes, charge controller is part of the system. It is capable of being up-scaled to 510w (meaning you could add up to 3 more of the panel included with the option)

    • @markh8410
      @markh8410 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks !

  • @KU9L
    @KU9L 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks Josh! Hey, 510-watts is three 170-watt modules, not four (yeah). Glad to hear guys guys partnering with Battleborn. When we spoke with Matt from Keystone at the Tampa RV Superstore, he started they were looking into upgrading their converters so at a flip of a switch they would be compatible with Battleborn lifepo4 batteries. Nonetheless, when we get ready to trade in our travel trailer in on a Cougar 22RBS, I feel confident you guys could spec us a new converter, add in the Keystone OTG option, boost it to 510 watts, add in a Victron battery monitor, & locate four BB lifepo4 batteries in our storage area for better cold temperature moderation. When we camp host in the CO mountains we generally carry a couple of portable panels with a second charge controller with us as well since most host sites are a compromise of shade & sun like all RV sites in the national forest. The KS Cougar 22RBS is an ideal compromise between form & function that fits into tighter spaces. After full/time RVing for 14 years in rigs from 19-35’ & 6 years of it in a truck camper we are all about fun & exploration over bigger is better these days. Keep up the good work!!! -Dave

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      lol #mathfail
      When you're ready: We're ready.

  • @susanjspaulding
    @susanjspaulding 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    *WOW* !!!! *Looking forward to the NEW Cougar OTG Solar Pack* !!!! *Having the OPTION to go off grid is VERY RAD* !!! #HaylettRV

  • @donna8243
    @donna8243 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Damn, now I have that song playing in my head 😜 I had to rewind on the Vader part, you do that well!

  • @andrewfidel2220
    @andrewfidel2220 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Josh, you're obviously going to either add another Zamp charge controller or upgrade to a bigger one if you go past 2 panels, 2x 170W =340W, 340W/12V=~30A maxing out the first so you'll need a second one or a bigger 60A unit.

    • @thunderbird97
      @thunderbird97 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      170 watt panel will put out around 9.5 A at perfect conditions, so a 30 A charger is good for around 525 watts, also your wires going from roof to charger needs to be big enough to carry that load, and wires from inverter to batteries should be large enough to carry load from inverter, and also breakers should be installed on wires, this stuff needs to be installed the right way or you may not have a RV after it catches on fire

  • @jeffreywoodin8549
    @jeffreywoodin8549 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Man, Cougar raising the bar, again. I must say, for a brand *not even on my radar* a few months ago I am really liking a lot of their decisions for layouts and what goes in their RV's. I've become a huge fan of the 25RES ....and the more I look at the 29RKS the more I am liking that too, decisions, decisions (my only minor gripe is that little bit of flex in the shower seats, I love the size of the showers and REALLY like that built in seat, that 'flex' may be fine but...when I emailed the company about it they were very responsive to my feedback on that, a good sign too). Thanks for this update Josh. I still several months away from buying a new trailer, but come time to empty the bank account I'll be contacting Haylett for pricing. Thanks

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      They've been a driving force for innovation for years. I really don't think they've received the credit they deserve due to a lot of clones that have claimed Cougar Innovations as their own.

    • @jeffreywoodin8549
      @jeffreywoodin8549 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@JoshtheRVNerd Josh, with this move by Cougar to more solar might we see Cougar now replace the current 8 c.f. fridges with electric 10 c.f. fridges? :) :)

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@jeffreywoodin8549 I know a lot of brands are testing them currently. 2-3 years ago Jayco was one of the first to be approached with the 10.7cu ft 12v fridges that are in the market today. But, at the time, the fridge simply wasnt passing Jayco's testing.
      Since then brands like Everchill improved their designs which have since been adopted by Wildwood. Now Furrion is finding homes for many of these 12v fridges.
      I think it's entirely possible that we'll see 12v-only RVs within 5 years.

  • @BKKKevin
    @BKKKevin 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Why no love/power for the microwave thru the inverter wiring prep?... Would love to see a video of the actual charge controller box & inverter prewiring in the bay ;-)

  • @SamuelJMartinIII
    @SamuelJMartinIII 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I’m really starting to love Cougars! The trailer brand, not older women (although they’re nice too)! 😉
    😆🤣😂😅

  • @nelsontrick5660
    @nelsontrick5660 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    510 watts would be exactly 3 panels... why the 4th? oh well, math right... love the channel and wife is finally on board to get rv and you have really made rv education fun and easy to umderstand

  • @sherrog
    @sherrog 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much! This was very informative. We just but a Cougar and were wondering how to add solar and inverter. This was very helpful.

  • @fishyman4820
    @fishyman4820 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Unrelated questions RV around 20,000 new or used, that is under 3500 pounds.
    3seson use. No need for dual pane windows, heated. Tanks ect.
    Thanks.
    Just for occasionally weekend getaway. .
    Thanks!

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      We have plenty to fit that bill. Enough that we'd want to narrow it down before I can even start really making recommendations. Give our team a call at 800-256-5196 so we can get an Idea of what you'd like!

  • @hughhodges5924
    @hughhodges5924 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Mr Winters, the 2022 Cougars come with the "Dutch-made" Victron Solar systems. Will you do an update on them comparing them to the US-Made Zamp Solar Systems. Not sure why Keystone is going with the Victron products. Thanks !

  • @SEANRMZ
    @SEANRMZ 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Josh, your videos are very helpful. I have a 2021 30rls with solar prep. But the inverter is not hooked up to the main ac panel. So no 110v supply in the rig 😢

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Correct. It was far more basic in 2021. It was in 2022 when OTG became Solar Flex that things started changing
      That 400i package is amazing overall for it's base function + ability to scale up

  • @UtahRoadbase
    @UtahRoadbase 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Did I miss info on the battery bank? Just curious what the set up is or if that's up to the buyer.

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Everybody seems to have an idea of what batteries are best, so Cougar keeps their hands out of it. We include a pair of deep cycle 12v batteries in our pricing at no additional charge on any fifth wheel. We have options here for 6v batteries, BattleBorns, etc as well should a client seek something else.

  • @TodLandis-p9r
    @TodLandis-p9r หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey Josh... have you ever tried to request factory Customer Support from Keystone for installing an Inverter? (Not as a Dealer, but as a personal owner?) I tried today, and they refused to provide any support. I think that it would make for a very interesting video. (If they will only show dealers how to accomplish the task, but they sell them with "Inverter Prep", but neglect to mention that they do not provide customer support to complete.)

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  หลายเดือนก่อน

      Given my role and associations I've never gone thru something that specific. I'd be curious to know more about the interaction

  • @clintbarton8019
    @clintbarton8019 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I understand the the Solar Kit is from Zamp and adding the additional panels for the 510 Amps. What brand is the inverter? 1200 Watt Inverter may be a little lite for some applications like an electric griddle. Would a 2000 Watt Inverter from the same company fit in the inverter prepped area? Also is there a transfer switch in this package to allow the inverter outlets to be used on shore power?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Larger inverters should be possible. Only the specified outlets are wired to the inverter without aftermarket modification

  • @davefisher16
    @davefisher16 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I hope Jayco adds solar to their Eagle trailers soon.

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Is August of last year soon enough for you? :)
      Here's some info: th-cam.com/video/RLB7ybnKSfc/w-d-xo.html

  • @freddypride3535
    @freddypride3535 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video well done. I will be up to see you guys as soon as we get through these hard times to purchase a winnebago minnie Q is does winnebago have same type of solor from the factory for the 2108 tb.
    Thanks fred

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Freddy! I'm having a hard time understand exactly what you're asking here with the way its phrased. Can you drop a note to our team at www.haylettautoandrv.com/contact/ so we can make sure we're answering the right question?

  • @brandonharris8377
    @brandonharris8377 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cougars vs montannas. Worlds apart in price and style for that matter. I was super close to purchasing a cougar in 18. But backed out due to my dated truck. Im still shopping and really love Montana but not the price. I figure you get what you pay for. Today a dealer told me Montana cannot be used as residential as it voids the warranty. I cannot find the truth in that and you state it is perfect for full time living. So what about cougar. You said they are warranted as well for ft living. Is a cougar a good practical buy still great quality or should i trully invest in the Montana.

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      None of these Rvs are warranted for "Residential" use. They're warranted for "Full Time RV'ing." There's a difference in what that terminology means.
      Basically, the phrase "Full Time RV" implies you use the RV for most of the time, but perhaps you spend a bit of your time somewhere (such as bunking up with a family member now and then -- even sparringly)
      It's splitting hairs, but that's the technical answer.

  • @rodrigogonzalez5496
    @rodrigogonzalez5496 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey Josh, big fan of your videos. Was just curious on how to wire the inverter on my 2022 Keystone Springdale 280BHWE. It comes standard with a 200 watt SolarFlex panel and inverter prep package and when I took the cover off for the inverter prep, it has a insulated wire which I'm guessing runs through to my inverted outlets. My question is how to wire it to my inverter? I don't want to mess anything up and I know it's simple but I couldn't really find much help on the keystone forums on it.

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      If you’re not sure about wiring things, then my best recommendation is always to have a service center tackle it for you.

  • @iamwhatiam4075
    @iamwhatiam4075 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Awesome info! well done! Thank you!

  • @wasachevyguy
    @wasachevyguy 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is great . I don’t know any of this stuff. We just ordered a 22rbswe today. Here in Canada they all come with the solar package. Does the solar charge the batteries all the time? It would be great to do some more electronics videos. 12v vs 6v batteries, etc…. Thanks Josh!’n

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well if you just ordered one, then basically you can scratch all this info. Keystone is adopting a superior company-wide solar platform that will blow the doors off what they were doing
      I am not able to disclose full details YET as Keystone has asked me to keep my mouth shut until after their official early-august press release is complete
      But you won't be disappointed :)

  • @bubbaclemson5566
    @bubbaclemson5566 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Just a curious idiot question...
    Can a dude go 100% off grid in a full time RV, no hook up what so ever.. and what would it take to do so (on average)? Not including propane.

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Possible? Very.
      How much? Too vague a question to know how to answer w/o an understanding of your intended lifestyle.

  • @jeffadams9863
    @jeffadams9863 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I missed the video on the inverter outlet install yoh mentioned, coould you link it here please? Also great job on the vids, I really enjoy watching

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      th-cam.com/video/th2uCBY3UeM/w-d-xo.html

  • @ae4xo
    @ae4xo 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I guess having a 4000 watt inverter is too much fo ask for in my christmas list

  • @yourstrulybryan8134
    @yourstrulybryan8134 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    For these solar prep packages is a dual battery setup pretty much a necessity? Or are we seeing people want more than 2 batteries?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Logically if you're in a situation in which solar is important to you, then a second battery would be a strong fit for the scenario.

  • @allanwarmflash5165
    @allanwarmflash5165 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    does jayco have a package like this good info as always

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Each brand does things a little different. Jayco has a great 12v solar charging package option (190w high efficiency panel, charge controller). No inverter prep in their setup, but know our team can run inverted outlets as you prefer to place them.

    • @allanwarmflash5165
      @allanwarmflash5165 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@JoshtheRVNerd thank you

  • @eightlittleacres947
    @eightlittleacres947 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Josh, what is the price point for taking a new cougar on the lot that already has the solar standard prep and upgrading to the otg package with your one panel? What about to three panels?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I would have to direct you to our parts and service team for this one. You can reach them at 800-256-5196 if it's something you're curious about having our team fulfill for you.

  • @superkunk2
    @superkunk2 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Will the solar panel help keep the battery charged if the battery master is off??

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      If the solar is router straight to the battery, then yes

  • @debbyblack8410
    @debbyblack8410 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    When and where can I get one? I am in Houston area

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Give us a call and we'll get one headed your way. We work with people nationwide & simply ask for the fair opportunity to earn your business in return for our efforts!

  • @lauriekeve7447
    @lauriekeve7447 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great! How secure are those panels on the roof against theft or dislodging during travel?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I've never had a customer report losing a panel in... well.. ever
      I'm also in a LARGE number of things like Facebook groups. Also not something I've seen reported in any of them
      Proper installation should never be compromised by things like wind. Hitting a tree branch or something is another story of course!

    • @lauriekeve7447
      @lauriekeve7447 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JoshtheRVNerd And how about theft? Are they ... like ... almost impossible to steal if we're off for the day and take the barking Rottweiler with us?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@lauriekeve7447 They're screwed down to the roof and have sealant applies to protect the penetration points thru the roof membrane. Someone would have to climb onto the camper and rock the thing around while they're peeling it off.
      So basically... it's no different than something like a roof antenna or vent covers. It's just too much effort for someone to deal with (plus out of sight / out of mind that high up)

  • @kennethjinkins8967
    @kennethjinkins8967 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    How many batteries and what kind ????

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      What is described here is only a wiring prep. Their solar package has no factory supplied batteries as no matter what type they provide "it's wrong."
      We include a pair of 12v deep cycle batteries with any fifth wheel at no additional charge and offer pretty much any battery that's available (including BattleBorns) for clients seeking alternative solutions.

  • @MikeShuster5376
    @MikeShuster5376 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So how much does the power inverter cost with installation? If I'm correct in order to run any 110 plugs you have to have the inverter??

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Apologies I don’t have a good bead on parts cost currently but our team can assist you there

  • @peterroper7471
    @peterroper7471 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love the informative videos

  • @FWyatt
    @FWyatt 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Is it required to shut off the inverter each day when you go to bed, or can the inverter stay on.

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Depends on what you're doing with it really

  • @Masterchief68a
    @Masterchief68a 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just wish they would offer the 12 VDC refrigerator along with the roof solar.

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      They do *now,* though they're separate options. You can swap to the fridge for no charge. Then you can get their roof solar + inverter package

  • @Mudmowerdiesel
    @Mudmowerdiesel 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Awesome video thank you

  • @277toby
    @277toby 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great informative video !!

  • @onlythebestsound
    @onlythebestsound 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Josh, love your videos....but 510 watts is THREE panels, not four. If you run 4 panels with that charge controller, you will have problems. Nice to see Cougar offering those options though!

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely. #mathfail while talking unscripted. I think folks got the message though

  • @johnaird7896
    @johnaird7896 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Is the OTG only on 2020 models or do any of the 2019 models have it?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      On the "Late" 2020 models. Re-watch the video. I mention exactly when it started taking effect and how you can determine if the 2020 in question has all the prep work done

    • @johnaird7896
      @johnaird7896 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JoshtheRVNerd Bummer, I am getting ready to buy a 2019 Cougar 362RLW. I guess I can do it myself.

  • @mickeybright4111
    @mickeybright4111 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi josh, mick from Idaho here. I have a 2021 Cougar 23 mls complete with solar package. Panel, inverter etc. this is my first winter here with this 5th wheel and I’m not quite sure what to do regarding my solar. Do I leave the power to the batteries on because the solar is always on? Can I or should I plug it in ? I can’t get good answers here. It does snow where I am in the pan handle. Any info would be great. Love your videos!! Thx

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I really recommend storing batteries away from the cold when possible.
      If that’s not possible, then you don’t have much choice other than to lean on that solar panel to keep the batteries tended while in storage. Keep the show off the panel when possible but I also don’t recommend getting on the roof to clean stuff when icy for obvious safety reasons

    • @mickeybright4111
      @mickeybright4111 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JoshtheRVNerd thank you! I’ve read that some people shut off their breakers inside the coach. I’m gonna guess that’s not necessary. Wish you guys were closer!

  • @UncleChuckApproved
    @UncleChuckApproved ปีที่แล้ว

    2020 cougar OTG TT, do they come with converter ready for lithium batteries?

  • @glendasellers9189
    @glendasellers9189 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Put something on that blank wall please

  • @farrismediaproductionsfmp8527
    @farrismediaproductionsfmp8527 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Is it 1200 inverter or is it a 2000 watt one now?

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Varies by brand at keystone as the OTG package is now used by several of them
      Cougar has bulked up to a 2k inverter
      I have some updated footage touching on this package here as well m.th-cam.com/video/K4aGxni1oJ4/w-d-xo.html

  • @trynsurviven2440
    @trynsurviven2440 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    C’mon...you mean that a “company” has printed a feature in plain english for the consumer to read?? I find that really hard to believe.

  • @SamuelJMartinIII
    @SamuelJMartinIII 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    4:53 so is it (3) 170w panels for a total of 510w -OR- (4) 170w panels for a total of 680w (you said 4 panels for a total of 510w)⁉️🤔💭🧐

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well.. now it's neither
      Keystone has adopted a company-wide solar platform called "Solar Flex"
      ALL Keystone RVs have a standard 200w panel + 15amp lithium capable victron controller
      Cougars have the ability to upgrade to a system with 600w of factory solar (Expandable to 1200), 3k Inverter, Soft Start Air, and 270ah lithium battery
      So basically Keystone pretty much just became THE leader in factory solar.

    • @SamuelJMartinIII
      @SamuelJMartinIII 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JoshtheRVNerd // I just saw this on their website, & forwarded it to you, before seeing your reply❗️I would want their 1200i package on their Cougar 22MLS, but they seem to suggest that’s only on their Montana FW (600i being the max on their Cougar 22 MLS); even though it should be upgradable with 2 extra panels & 1 extra battery & charge controller ‼️ 🙏🏽

  • @stringkmcc7817
    @stringkmcc7817 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    How many roof panels would you need to totally go solar-- to run everything off solar?
    You totally dated yourself with " down with otg"... Lol don't feel bad I knew exactly what you were refering to..lol

    • @JoshtheRVNerd
      @JoshtheRVNerd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Montana is actually the first brand to offer an "Everything functioning off solar" factory option. Our first one will be rolling in this Spring. We'll have a full tour of it then. It's a huge package with a similar price tag that includes things like four 265w panels, a big bank of battleborn batteries and all sorts of stuff. Capable of running dual airs off-grid.
      Also, I didn't do anything to date myself my hairline hasn't already accomplished ;)

  • @athenaspencer4684
    @athenaspencer4684 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    ❤❤❤