Lights/wiring through the roof?

[primitive]

Getting ready to install several lights on the roof rack. A couple on each side, along with one on the rear. Looking for ideas on how to get through the roof.

thanks

[Bbasso]

What you need is a waterproof bulkhead fitting. Just in case you're not sure what it is, I'm providing a link to a website to show you. I'm not sure if they're any good but its just to give you an idea
http://www.newmarpower.com/Waterproof_F ... eries.html

[boywonder]

Thanks for the link Bbasso!

Those fittings look perfect for a roof penetration.

If I knew about those when I poked a hole in my penthouse I may not have fabbed my own.

Here is my DIY version. I used switchcraft waterproof 12V connectors for the outside camp lights.

viewtopic.php?f=24&t=11764&start=150

[Viva]

I've used both the Blue Sea and Newmar fitting type shown and been happy with them. I haven't used the right angle ones (which they each make a version of), because there is a limitation on wire size and cables were larger than that.

[primitive]

Thanks for all the ideas. The 90 degree fitting is something I hadn't seen before. Tried most all of the rest as I work on a commercial boat, lots of watertight fittings. They all work good. Was just looking for new ideas, as I'm so use to doing it the same way always.
Like the idea you came up with boywonder, might see what I can do with your idea and the third brake light, as that's the general area I need them to enter the van.

[Bbasso]

Glad I could be helpful.

[gcvt]

I used Ancor wire seals when I installed my solar panels. Great product.

[Viva]

I can see where those could work well on a van (for anyone who isn't looking at them, they look like a black nylon wire gland). I couldn't use them because the area they pass through can only be around 1/4" or so thick and still attach the two halves together. The Blue Sea and Newmar type just sit on one surface (roof) and don't care how thick the roof is. But the glands are slick if you have a thin enough layer to use them on.

[boywonder]

I would have used a cable strain relief/gland if my roof was thin enough. On the PH, I also had to mount on one side due to thickness.