TheSamba.com :: View topic - Best way to mount solar panel to roof rack

Thu Jan 14, 2016 1:09 pm

Im working on installing a 100 watt renogy solar panel on my roof rack. Already have it all wired up and working great. To test mount it ive used zip ties to clamp it to the round yakima roof rack i have. Im looking to see if anyone has done a similar setup and what you have used to mount the solar panel to the roof rack. I'd prefer something that I can grab at home depot or lowes and a setup that would allow me to fairly easily take detach the panel so I can take down the roof rack and park the van in my garage when doing work on it. Any ideas?

Thu Jan 14, 2016 1:30 pm

In other threads, I've seen people suggest Yakima gunwhale brackets. They can be found pretty cheap/used on Ebay.

I know it's not Home Depot simple, but might give you some ideas.

EDIT: These threads show the brackets in use:

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=433900&highlight=yakima+solar+brackets

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=355490&highlight=solar

Thu Jan 14, 2016 2:27 pm

Thu Jan 14, 2016 2:49 pm

I never remove the panel from the rack, a dab of Loctite was required after I lost 3 nuts :-)

Thu Jan 14, 2016 3:47 pm

I'm planning on finally getting a solar system installed this spring. I've debated between mounting to the westy roof on slide racks, or attaching as you're doing here. Any issues with it being so high off the roof? Wind, movement, etc.?

One of the benefits could be quick removal to park in the shade and move the panel to the sun.

Thu Jan 14, 2016 3:53 pm

Another option:

Mount a flexible solar panel to your Thule/Yakima box. Flexible panels are much lighter and you'll also retain that valuable space on your bars for other items (basket, surf board, kayak, etc.).

http://www.amazon.com/KINGSOLAR-trade-Generation-M...olar+panel

Thu Jan 14, 2016 3:56 pm

Cut a hole/notch in that bracket, add another angle stock with the muffler clamp idea and install a 1 1/2" long drawer lock. The tab of the lock would engage the upper bracket and be able to secure it and remove it with a key.

Fri Jan 15, 2016 5:24 am

tarandusVDub wrote: I'm planning on finally getting a solar system installed this spring. I've debated between mounting to the westy roof on slide racks, or attaching as you're doing here. Any issues with it being so high off the roof? Wind, movement, etc.?

One of the benefits could be quick removal to park in the shade and move the panel to the sun.

No additional noise, no movement, etc. I think it may even act as a spoiler :-) I noticed a tiny drop in MPG from the roof rack but nothing from the panel itself (panel was installed months after the rack). Secure all the wires very well or they might move in the wind and damage your paint. Pop top shock assist are a nice addition since the rack and panel do add weight on the top. I guess I could replace the standard nuts with butterfly nuts to make it more removable (or steal able?) but still it would be a pain to do on a regular basis. In Atlantic Canada we park/camp in the sun to make it as enjoyable as possible ;-) but I understand why one would chase the shade in the southern latitudes.

Fri Jan 15, 2016 9:15 am

Thanks guys for all the tips. Im going to look at a used set of Yakima Canoe Mounts today, I like the look of that option over the DIY stuff. Ill report back when im finished and let you guys know how it turned out.

Fri Jan 15, 2016 7:17 pm

Note Yakima sells Gunwhale brackets and also LoadStops. The LoadStops are a bit taller. If you want detailed pics of those, PM me.