solar panel relocation

[Captmike]

Hi, I have a new very light dingy that I want to put on top of the boat (classic R29). Currently it is on top of the boat but it overlaps the solar collector. There is no slack in the wiring to the collector. How can I extend the wire on the collector in order to make room for the dingy. Michael Regets 360 791 1658

 

[scross]

It should be very simple! The connection between the short cable coming off the solar panel and the long cable running into the cockpit are joined by MC4 connectors. There are many places that sell premade MC4 extension cables in various lengths.
I’d recommend getting 8AWG cables and you should be good to go.

WindyNation 8 AWG 8 Gauge 1 Pair 3 Feet Black + 3 Feet Red Solar Panel Extension Cable Wire Solar Connectors (Variety of Lengths Available) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L6OU4K4/re ... DH2H?psc=1

 

[Gin]

I’ll just mention that use of MC4 connectors on the Ranger Tugs does not appear to be uniform. On my 2019 RT31, the wires from the solar panel to the wires from the controller are connected with crimp on connections. I may replace them at some point with MC4 connectors (taking the necessary precautions for working with the solar panel wiring). I’d prefer MC4 connectors over the fixed crimps.

Gini

 

[scross]

Great point Gini!
If there is simply some sort of crimped cable connection near the cables coming out of the panel, I’d definitely recommend replacing them with MC4 connectors. It’s easy to do - other than physically getting to the existing cable to do the work. There are many kits available with the MC4 connectors (both male and female sides) with the tools needed.
As Gini said, make sure the panel is covered and the breaker before the solar controller is pulled before starting work.
Sample of MC4 tool kit with MC4 connectors:
Kohree Solar Crimping Tool Cable Connector, with 6pcs Male Female Solar Connector + 2 Pcs Spanners Wrench + 1 Pcs Wire Crimper + 1 Pcs Tool Kit for 2.5/4/6mm² Solar PV Wire https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081C3C3GY/re ... F2M5QDM2PF

 

[Gin]

Thanks for the link for the MC4 materials! I had been meaning for some time to get a crimper and the connectors through Rod on the Marine How To website. Sadly, he has had a stroke and has stopped selling tools on his website. The many helpful articles he posted are still there. But I need to look elsewhere now for the materials, so thanks for pointing me in a possible direction.

As a former resident of Ashland, Oregon, I have to ask: Just where do you do your boating? I assume NOT Emigrant Lake! 😀

Thanks again!

Gini

 

[Captmike]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I haven't been to the boat lately to see how the collector is connected to wire. Really appreciate the idea of covering the collector and checking the breaker prior to messing with the system.

 

[scross]

Gini,
The tool kit I referenced was very similar to the one I used when installing, and then upgrading, the solar system on Our Journey. You really can disconnect the male and female MC4 connectors by hand but the included tool makes it easy.
We launch out of Bellingham. Emigrant Lake was so low this winter (well under 10% of capacity) it wasn’t even suitable for a our dinghy.