Even Moar Solar! 1.4kW Rooftop RV Sliding Solar Install - How to Build an Overlander
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- Опубликовано: 29 сен 2024
- I've linked some of the components used below for those interested.
After hauling 4 of our 8 Panels in and out of the truck last fall, I finally settled on a design that I feel is simple yet robust. The drawer slides allow the solar panels to tuck away under the top layer when we are in motion and we can extend them when needed with the flip of a switch.
Air Mufflers:
www.mcmaster.c...
Drawer Slides:
www.mcmaster.c...
Cushioned Round Body Air Cylinder, Double Acting:
www.mcmaster.c...
NITRA solenoid valve, 5-port (4-way), 2-position AVS-5111-24D:
www.automation...
12 Volt Coils to replace the 24 Volt coils on the above valves.
www.automation...
WOW, Looks like you just Invented a great idea for trucks and RVer to Dubble their Solar footprint.
Excellent video . This would solve a lot of problems for a lot of people .
I am a big fan of solar projects. This is awesome!!!!!!
Cool, I'm glad you like... I could use a coder for some of the logic used to deploy the wings, etc. There is a lot of automation in this thing... Mostly Python. Are there times that you're not Cranky?
The moniker came from some early years as a programmer. I am far less cranky these days :)
And you have a sweet 3D Printer!! I've needed one several times on this project, The Screen housing/console for example, and I want to make housings for the 5 outside cameras. Maybe if I send you filament and a pittance, you can send me parts? Could do some collaboration stuff.
I'd be down for that. What cameras do you have?
I've got a few of these: goo.gl/XUho8G They are nice because they have a IR filter you can engage remotely.
But just got in two of these ones, which I like the FOV better: goo.gl/GAMg5s
Absolutely BRILLIANT! How did you route the panel wiring? Cabling is moving...
ruclips.net/video/0GDvu0AUrgs/видео.html
Genius!!
Question if and when you ever need to get on top of your vehicle for any reason are you able to stand and walk on your panels?
Nice bit of engineering. I have been thinking about doing just the same, but with 12v linear actuators. Was that a consideration and if so what was the issue with them?
I've repaired too many electric actuators/control systems... I like that I don't need to repair the failed limit switches, and the burnt out motors from the same, I like that they are a fraction the weight, size and cost for the same workload, They extend and retract in 1-2 seconds. Made from Stainless Steel they are robust for extended outdoor use. And most importantly the way I have them valved, they fail closed.
I now have a Frequently Asked Questions post on this very topic on our website that gives lots of details... everlanders.com/FAQ-air-powered-slides/
Are you running your Nitra valves at 24 volts or will they work at 12 volts?
I changed to the 12 volt coils, sold separately.
bit.ly/2U90zuP
Everlanders Thanks, already got them on order. I really appreciate your help.
I know at this point you have some 90+ days using this setup this past year. But I am concerned about the rails, they are not designed to be outside in the weather.
Yes they are... 304 Stainless, commercial units, everything is 1/8" think, not the cheap tin ones. I just washed out the grease so that it would not hold dust.
Im currently designing something so similar but without the air shocks. Incredible work love it.
What would you charge someone to build this for a rv?
Me TOO!
10 bucks?
I am back to revisit this in 2021 and (updated) 2022. I am amazed why this did not get over a million views but, in sharing that, I have surmised that there are only a hand full of us geeks out there in the world that appreciate this type of content. Amazing job!
This was actually very clever! Why haven't i thought about it?!
Great job!
This gives me some idea of my own.. thanks for sharing. I’ve been adjusting to -30 up here in Sioux lookout, definitely different than what I’m used to.
Levi !!! Nice to see you're still watching! I wish I could get my production values to 1/10th of what your quick vlogs are... Hit me up if you want a design audit, there is lots I learned the hard way but didn't make it in the video.
Everlanders - thanks! I won’t be adding panels for a few months still, but I hadn’t considered stacking and having one set on slides. I might just make it a simple manual slide version though.
If you ever have any video questions let me know! It was great getting to see the man behind the work in this video. Helps put a face to the voice. Also, it would be fun to shoot a video of your rig if you are out in BC again, let me know!
Man, I really gotta learn how to weld...and then I need to learn how to weld aluminum. 😂
Love the rail design. I think I'll go with a manual deployment. I'm redoing my setup and this beats folding them out.
Before I watched the video on the mini split a/c I thought they were folding.
If a person used some ingenuity, they probably could have them fold and still flip to get some charging power while moving.
I really like Everlanders design though. :)
How have the slides survived exposed to the elements? Has dust/dirt compromised the lubrication in the slides? Do they still operate as new?
I soaked the slides in degreaser before assembly to prevent dust and dirt from collecting. 2 times a day, 3 years, 4 countries, nearly 100,000 km and they are still going strong...
so you have had this for 3 years - how has the drawer slides work in the environment? - are they still sliding easy ? they are typically built for indoor use. great idea I want to copy it!
These are not typical drawer slides... They are heavy stainless steel slides used the toolboxes of Tow Trucks, Service Bodies, and Ambulances. And as you can see in our more recent videos, We've driven this rig nearly 100,000Km through Canada, North to the Artic Ocean, South through the USA, Mexico and now heading for Guatemala. We've had no problems cycling them at least twice a day.
awesome build! thanks for sharing!
I never get tired of watching your videos
I may have watch this one more that 20 times it’s just a great video and I have shared it with my family and friends - great job
you’re not alone - I probably watched this about 50 times so far 😂 . such an amazing project. He is definitely one of my mentors.
Now you've done it. I have a long steep learning curve ahead of me to build a similar setup on a cabin roof. Outstanding build Sir. Outstanding.
Found the first video of the solar deployment..... ingenious..... the very coolest system to double up your solar.... I can't say enough... I want to build one for myself I have some time before my new sprinter arrives.... and along with everything else this will really keep me busy.
I am installing a Volta system, and Buck from Volta told me a solar system needs to be much more than the standard 200w to even be worth the cost of installing solar... now I believe you have shown me the answer.... I will see what I can configure to make solar worth while for the Volta system. I am going all electric.. with at least 13KW system. Lots of boondocking and off grid adventures....can't wait Thank you again for the inspiration....
He tripled up! LOL
WOW, thanks so much for your idea. is incredible!!! A greeting from Spain!
170 pounds weights of solar panels plus the rack. is it not too heavy load for the roof? i added only teo 200 watts renogy panel on my roof at the center of my roof. my roof is 16 feets long only abd i lost stability. its like when i drive , the driving wheel i need turn left or right often. normally i never had thst problem. there is 3 inches spsce between my solar panejs and roof top. do i need to install a wind deflector on 3 sides or front side maybe?
That is awesome! Very creative idea! Looking forward to the install!
How are those slides holding up after all these years of weather?
Have you had any dielectric corrosion issues with the aluminum/stainless combo?
Wondering if you had any problems with the sliders now that this video is 2+ years old. I am looking at the option of making a manual awning out of my panels.
Can I ask what sliders you used?
They get extended and retracted 2-3 times daily, currently off roading through Mexico without issue. Links for everything I used is in the description.
Also, this ruclips.net/video/woZH85EiHNY/видео.html
Great idea and implementation. Why did you go the pneumatic route versus a linear actuator?
Very impressive, I thought of doing this last year for when I build a van next year. And here You have already have a working model for me to admire
The real genius is you promoting SIKA as often as you do. Give them a shout and some videos to get your piece of the pie. You swear by SIKA and just look at all the comments about your work. You are a Camping Advertisement for them. 50k to you to and have them wrap your Rig with the SIKA Logo.
@Everlanders - Have you had any issue with the drawer slides malfunctioning after all this time adn all your travels?
I am building a similar system with 80/20 and I am most concerned with debree, dirt, and dust causing an issue with the oiled bearings in stainless steel heavy duty drawer slides.
15 countries later... ruclips.net/video/lcck1ejlXt8/видео.html
Brilliant idea and an outstanding job executing it. Raspberry Pi's are awesome aren't they! When I build I hope you don't mind me seeking you out for that sliding solar design as well.
Im wondering if a third layer would be possible
Sure...
Everlanders thanks considering this for a skoolie build. Thinking a third layer could act as some what of an awning.
Charles Hall, this guy laid down a pretty solid idea. Some brainstorming could really open up some more possibilities (like yours) to get even more out of the platform. I like your idea of it filling in as an awning while charging the batteries! And a third layer. Now if we could come up with an idea to draw moisture from the air for water while boondocking (I can do it at home with my dehumidifier) without plugging into shore power! Talk about being off grid! Happy Trails!!
I've been using a 1/4" wrench to turn screw heads forever.. and now I see they make a ratchet. Good to know!
God certainly gifted some with abilities that others can only gawk at and scratch their heads (me). You must have a really high IQ fella!
29,244 views o2/22/2021 Still A Great Video
Nice video. You did what I want to do! Thanks!
Just discovered your channel today......... Blimey its bloody brilliant !
Do you sell that rack? Where can I buy one ?
I don't sell anything...
Very nice. I would like to see it upgraded to three drawer 12 panels.
I was searching for this type of solar panels mounting system and found your channel. Thanks for your brilliant work. 👍💐😀
Good stuff! Thanks for the comment!
Can you go into a little more detail how the ram works it looks like it air pressure pushes it out and it also pushes it back there's no vacuum that causes the motion can you confirm that ?
Traveling Terry ahhh crud, great question I should have answered in the video... They are "double acting" cylinders. The fancy valves you saw have 1 input, 2 outputs and 2 exhaust ports. The cylinder can be pressurized on either side of the Piston while the inactive side is vented to the exhaust port. If you watch again you can see a green air line to both ends of the cylinder...
I’d be curious about Maintenance on this system. I imagine dust, dirt, grit, and sand would slowly build up in the slides, and eventually need to be cleaned out. How would one go about accomplishing that? I’d love to have a similar system on my RV in the future.
It's been over a year now, and we've been full time traveling through Canada, USA and Mexico extending and retracting daily with no issues. I simply used high quality, beefy stainless slides. Before assembly I used degreaser to remove the factory applied oils so the dust does not stick. Twice so far I've used the pressure washer at the car wash to blow away any pine needles or whatever gets stuck inbetween stuff, but it was a preventative measure, not sure it was even needed. 👍
Great build. Thanks for sharing.
This is just badass, and exactly what I had been imagining on my (forthcoming) rig. We actually met at the Overland Expo West this year (2019), but I had not seen your channel so did not think to ask about all your great inventions! Possible to IM you when I get nearer to my build? Great work!
Sure! Hit us up on Instagram.
Thank you for sharing your innovative technique with full description.
You are so welcome!
Genius. Any concerns about it extending (overwhelming the hydrolics) during turns or driving?
No... 5 years, 14 Countries, 100,000km... no problems.
Looking to do this on a 254year old Hymer StarLline 550. The fact that you are replying to folk positively, nearly 5 years later proves it is a sound design and not a gimmick. Could I ask what kind of maintenance you have needed to do over the years to keep it working?
Nothing... clean the leaves out of the cracks...
this is awesome. why did you decided to have the bottom ones move instead of the top ones?
Easier to manage wires and shading issues.
Congratulations, good workmanship. Details are well thought out. The top and bottom panels are placed close to each other. The outward opening surface has been kept to a minimum, ensuring that it is resistant to possible strong wind loads. These seem like things that have been thought about. The pneumatic actuator creates a hard and jerky finish at the end of the opening process. This might be the only downside.
In the final installation the air flow was restricted to control the speed.
ruclips.net/video/lcck1ejlXt8/видео.html
Cool...So how has it held up in the wind and travelling? How is it wired? How does it charge when closed having half the panel fully blacked out? And how much did this cost you?
Good.
Parallel.
Only the top panels charge.
45$
I was thinking about something like this for my van the other day but man you took it to another level, well done!
Hands down my favorite video on solar panels so much so I want to copy you. I can see you are very intelligent VERY, I will confess I am no match so this design and all your other designs like the control center where you have Raspberry PI set up which I also want to copy. Again would love to copy you which is compliment and I hope you take it as that. I see the thought you have put into each of these projects. I was wondering if there is breakdown of your designs? THANK YOU for sharing all of your creations and life.
I can't break it down any further as every installation will need some level of adaptation. But several people have copied the concepts I've shown, and they've sent pictures to prove it...
Do you have blue prints? Curious how I can build a custom one for myself without knowing anything
You don't really need blueprints, it's three pieces of angle aluminum, drawer slides with matching holes drilled to the aluminum...
Awesome! How are they holding up after a few years? I'm looking to do something like this for my boat. Where would you suggest getting the channel from?
This should give you a pretty good idea: ruclips.net/video/UAZGX379dmc/видео.html
I got our aluminum from Russel Metals Saskatoon.
Such an interesting design. Do they rattle while driving? Do you know what the total weight is, without the solar panels?
No rattles.
Um did you say 45 BELOW zero? is that F or C? Eitherway no wonder you went to Mexico! PS: Those Igloos are looking more and more like houses these days.
-45 degrees celsius = -49 degrees fahrenheit 😀
ahh... so this is how you did it? very sweet.
Quick question, what would keep somebody from doing this but the other way around.... That is, having the top two panels slide out instead?
I have 4 4x6 panels to install on the roof of my short bus and I am trying to evaluate options that would let me have a roof top deck, at least until I install four more panels,
thanks
I don't see why not... But why not have them hinged at the edge, and then fold them up to act as a railing when you're using the deck and then they fold flat when you're not up there...
That being said, we know 3 rigs that have rooftop decks and 3 rigs that wish they wouldn't have bothered. They never use them, it adds a surprising amount of weight up high making for poor drivability, and the mounting points leak...
I keep watching this because I want to replicate it. I know nothing about pneumatic actuators though. Where does one source these parts. I assume one actuator per panel? I need to watch again I guess. I might have missed something.
The links are all in the description.
Incredible work!!
Perhaps you’ve answered this in one of the million comments so sorry if a duplicate. Curious how much power you get out of the lower string while they are retracted. It looks like they get some sun. Then also after all the years, what percent of your power comes from top versus bottom panels?
You will get zero power from a panel that is partially shaded.
my husband was talking about this the other day , then he saw this clip and he has watched it 5 times now poor pop top van mod coming
It's probably too heavy for a pop top...
@@Everlanders is it too heavy for a fiberglass hightop?
What is the width and length of your panels?
What is the total thickness of the installation?
The panels each measure:
58.750" 1492.25mm Long
26.750" 660.4mm Wide
1.875" 47.625mm Thick
Don't know if this has been asked, what keeps the cylinders locked? The constant air pressure in the line feeding them?
I intended to put magnetic latch solenoids to hold them in as a double safety, but I never got around to it, I'm still carrying them around in the back of the truck. The air pressure pulling them in has been working great so far...
I've seen electric linear actuators used in a similar manner in some harsh environments. I have no experience with the reliability of pneumatics but it sure sounds great.
For the low price, ¾ inch diameter, reliability, speed, ease of transmitting massive power through a long 2mm air line, etc, etc, it was an easy choice for me...
I wish we could just buy this. Or have it as an option on the new RV's.
You can buy it... It's just 3 lengths of 4" aluminum L profile and some drawer slides...
soooooooooo awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!
How are the drawer slides holding up? I read they stick horribly when they get dirty. Any feedback would be great.
Four Countries, Three years, Twice a day, One hundred thousand Kilometers, Zero problems.
Did you place a wind spoiler in front of the panels for when the truck is moving down the road? I imagine wind noise or whistle hum would be present.
Nope
How those sliders/ rails doing in wind ? Do you have to retract in stronger winds ?
Ok gotta ask, why a pneumatic system and not a servo motor/gear system?
I now have a Frequently Asked Questions post on this very topic on our website that gives lots of details... everlanders.com/FAQ-air-powered-slides/
would you ever sell this design in a kit minus the panels?
Nope, it's already free to copy, and dozens of people have already built one for themselves.
Did you electrically isolate the panels on the bottom so as not to effect the output of the top ones if only using those? If so, how did you do it? Or doesn’t it seem necessary?
We use the SBMS100 solar charge controller and Battery Management System which has two discreet solar inputs. This allows me to track the amount of power produced on the top array versus the bottom. That being said, it is not required and they could be wired together without any problems.
complex but a solid build eap for panels out of arms reach
Drawer slides aren't that complex...
And shade for the rig while parked in full sun! Awesome design. Would you be willing to post your SketchUp file(s)?
Yes, the extra shade is better than expected! The design was only half done in CAD, the details worked out in the flesh.
@@Everlanders would you consider selling a diagram, parts to order, so a real novice like me could build a roll out solar system like you created for your vehicle. I admire creative thinkers with talent.
How have the drawer slides held up being exposed to the elements?
100,000Km, twice a day, 3 countries, no problems... ruclips.net/video/woZH85EiHNY/видео.html
This is amazing, Great Job!!!
Brilliant! I want to build something similar. Is there a special reason you used pneumatic cylinders instead of electric cylinders (electrical linear actuator)? Also, is there any precaution you took agains dust in the sliders? I am afraid that once dust settles in the sliders wont move effortlessly anymore.
Electric linear actuators that have 24" or 30" of throw can get very expensive, large size, they are a lot more susceptible to damage from exposure to water and outside elements, and they are quite a bit more complex in that they have limit switches gears, worm drive screws... This is a very simple ¾ inch diameter stainless steel rod, when you give it air you get a hundred and fifty pounds of pushing force, through a single ⅛ inch air line. if anything fails I can disconnect the airline and push it in or out as needed. Heavy duty stainless slides were de-greased and pressure washed clean, the roller bearings are running dry now... 100,000 km and three years of use and they're still going strong...
@@Everlanders I kind of expected you to have thought about that 😂😂 but good to understand your reasoning. Now I see your point about the air cylinders. And the best argument of all: you know it works because you have tested it.
I now have a Frequently Asked Questions post on this very topic on our website that gives lots of details... everlanders.com/FAQ-air-powered-slides/
Just discover your channel via "live and give 4x4. Just wanderfull, what a great job. I spent all this year thinking about this system and bum, you did it times ago. Thank you.
Appreciate this video is many years old but wow, I've just discovered this channel and I'm astounded at your skill
Brilliant idea Sir just brilliant.
Has you considered building these for a living because I would like to own one for my coach thank you so much for sharing
Your creative and skill set of knowledge with us all.
that was awesome. that was so cool. i thought to myself how to increase solar and jokingly googled slide out. this is so neat! very cool design.
That is so cool..
You... Are... Amazing!!!! Okay... Seeing that you are the first person to create such a brilliant piece of work, how many millions have you made so far?😄
0 millions... 🙄
@@Everlanders
Do you have plans for sale -- I cant design worth crap but I can follow a set of plans -- Seems like lots of interest for you to cobble together and sell for 100$/download.
It's really just three pieces of angle aluminum, 3" wide, and stainless steel drawer slides bolted to them and the solar panels... The other critical dimensions are going to depend on the vehicle you're mounting it to.
This video is 5 years old - but still very impressive ingenuity!
(I am curious though - is the spelling of *MOAR* intentional? - OR - did the typo actually get you *MORE* views?)
It was a popular meme at the time...
@@Everlanders Got it.
Extremely smart. Would u b interested in building a racks for the public? How much?
It is just three pieces of angled aluminum with some slides screwed into it, a pretty simple DIY project
Thanks! Gods blessings on u and your wife.🙏🏽👍🏽
You could harvest rain water with that trough.
I harvest rainwater with the whole surface of our roof.
LOL Someday, when I'm rich, I'll order you the same thing for a Ford Transit roof. Will you accept?
When you're rich, I will accept.
@@Everlanders
So I'm going to make sure I get rich. See you soon.
I would like to see your design! How?
You can't.
What are you using as your air source to drive the actuators?
ruclips.net/video/HFS2_4ul4ug/видео.html
I'm surprised I haven't seen this on high end overlanding trailers yet!
I have been designing this exact concept in my head over the past two months. You did this five years ago! Are you building these professionally yet?
I was thinking 12v linear actuators under the bottom panels and raising it up to fit the cylinders. Pneumatic actuators make it more stream lined.
How are European millimeters different than my millimeters?
Well done 👍 Did you make a follow up video showing it mounted and in use?
!!! Found it ✌️👁👁
Hi where would I be able to find those L channels?(: love the work !
Any metal supplier, they are just normal 3/16 wall, 3" L channel.
@@Everlanders helpful thank you!
Doesn't the box with the cylinders fill up with rain water?
Nope... Just drilled a few holes in the corners...
@@Everlanders awesome.... i had a very similar idea...you just took it to the next level. Great stuff love your content. Safe travels!
I had 3000 watts on my ambulance RV build
Good job on the build
Excellent idea ☺
Would rivet-nuts be an acceptable substitute for all those threaded chips for mounting the panels?
Yes, except that the frames are 1/2 inch thick box section extrusions with fairly thin walls, so I wanted to spread out the clamping forces.
@@Everlanders Cool, thanks for the reply.
Really nice, I don't use the word Heroic often, but... Impressive.. most impressive
How is it holding up
I’m paranoid About the actuator failing from vibrations in the road life situation and rust and dirt hindering the sliders ?
Seems about $500 to add a few panels seems worth it unless it is problematic.
4 years, 4 Countries and 100,000 km later and they're still working like a champ... The stainless steel sliders don't rust, and all the pneumatic cylinders and fittings are stainless steel as well...
I now have a Frequently Asked Questions post on this very topic on our website that gives lots of details... everlanders.com/FAQ-air-powered-slides/
Beautiful solar array! Greetings from Jamaica.