Solar Power Kit Installation

[USNA81]

I want to install the factory solar panel kit on my 2012 Cutwater 28.
Is this a DIY project or do I need to hire a tech ?
Has anybody done it?
Any advice is much appreciated
Thank you in advance

 

[pugtug613]

I'm sure it comes with installation instructions. Read it over and then make the call. You know your skill level. Can you run wires and not have a leak? Does the electrical connection part sound too complicated? Assuming you have all the parts and some basic skills and a whole lot of patience, then go for it. I love my panel. It's 135 watts and I can stay on the hook for 2 days with the fridge going and all the lights and stuff. I'm sure there are some sort of isolator in the circuit and it has to charge the batteries no matter where the switches are set.

If you don't feel comfortable, I'm sure there is a local electronics guy in your neck of the woods?

 

[Kenny Marrs]

Hello USNA81,

We are always here to answer any questions you might have when it comes time to install your new solar panel. Just give us a call 253-839-5213.

Thanks,
-Kenny

 

[wthron]

Looking at the factory installation shows a major problem on a Cutwater 28.....the Solar Panel is installed with a portion under and close to the radar dome. ANY shade that falls on a diode destroys the production of that line of diodes. The best Solar Panel is an upgrade panel that has bypass diodes so any shade that falls on a line of diodes does not impact the production of the other diodes in that line. No idea how much more that upgrade panel would cost but expect it would be worth it.
Other than bypass diodes, the panel needs to be forward enough to reduce it's shading so the diode in the sun can all produce electricity.

Wonder if you would be better off spending on a Honda 2000 generator and deal with a small amount of gas in the donnage locker......no comparison to electrical production & can be used 24-7 compared to the Solar Panel which seems like a good idea but has serious limitations.

I have run into one Tug\Cutwater owner, an engineer from Seattle, that was aware of this limitation.


Best, Wayne