Solar Module Charging Inergy Kodiak Question

[SilverForkPhil]

Hey all -
I'm trying to figure out how to make a situation work (if possible). I know there are some very smart folks here that can probably come up with an answer fairly quickly, if it's possible.

I had a great deal and purchased a pallet (30) of some Trina solar modules for an off-grid installation at our second home. I only needed 20 for my needs at the house, so I'd like to make use of some of them for other projects, including my Van. I can easily install one on the roof.

Here's a link to the Spec sheet on the TrinaSolar.com site: https://static.trinasolar.com/sites/..._Apr2018_C.pdf

I have the 305 Watt modules - part # TSM-DD05A.05(II)

A couple of the pertinent numbers from the specs are Voc=40 Volts and Isc=9.85 Amps
It has an MC4 connector.

I also have an Inergy Kodiak (https://inergytek.com) self-contained lithium battery with a built-in PWM charge controller. Similar to a GoalZero. Here's a link to the manual/specs:
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/16...98442003063061

My hangup with using the Trina module with the Kodiak is that in the manual it states a couple times that (from page 10):

(B) Charge Port 2: High current charge input for use with the Inergy Quick Wall charger, Solar Storm Solar Panels, and Predator Solar Panels. MAXIMUM INPUT: UP TO 600 WATTS, NOT TO EXCEED 26 VOLTS DC (OPEN CIRCUIT, ABBREVIATED AS VOC). Connector Type: Neutrik Speakon connector.

So, max of 26 volts, while the Trina can output as much as 40 volts. No go, apparently.

I contacted Inergy and they pretty much said I'm out of luck to use these two together and I could brick my Kodiak.

It *seems* (in my civil engineering mind, that is) that I could install a DC-DC Voltage Regulator/Step Down Buck Transformer/Converter similar to one of these (for example) between the Trina module and the Kodiak:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...521484310&th=1

or

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0..._1p_14_lm?th=1

Another thought I had would be to install a Renogy or Victron MPPT charge controller, but my solar guy warned against it - that installing a second charge controller in series could "confuse" things between the controllers.

Any thoughts? Really looking for enlightenment here.
If so, I'd appreciate any recommendations from the smart electrical guys here on a converter/regulater that could work.

Thanks in advance

Phil

[VtSoundman]

Open the box, bypass the controller. Get the victron and program it properly.

Unfortunately, the inergy kodiak is a POS...

[Scalf77]

Originally Posted by VtSoundman

Open the box, bypass the controller. Get the victron and program it properly.

Unfortunately, the inergy kodiak is a POS...

Ditto,
-greg

[SilverForkPhil]

Well, that's not very helpful, gentlemen.

Despite your opinions aside, in the 3 years of own reship, I've been very satisfied with the Kodiak, and besides, I still charge it from the 120v wall outlet and I still want that ability.

Are there any constructive ideas?

[Scalf77]

Based on your requirements I would recommend purchasing a solar panel that matches the required input specs to the Kodiak. While stepping down the voltage may work, you would loose a lot of overall power (well over half) that makes that venture not worth your while other than saying you did it. There are a lot of things that could go wrong that would damage the existing Kodiak controller.

I'm sorry that is not the answer your looking for.

-greg

[VtSoundman]

Originally Posted by SilverForkPhil

Well, that's not very helpful, gentlemen.

Despite your opinions aside, in the 3 years of own reship, I've been very satisfied with the Kodiak, and besides, I still charge it from the 120v wall outlet and I still want that ability.

Are there any constructive ideas?

Well that's sort of a snarky response there sir...

Like it or not, the solar controller is poor.

It claims to be able to charge external batteries, I have direct experience of it cooking at least one battery and indirect knowledge of a cooking quite a few others.

So at least two of it's functions are marginal / poor / otherwise do not function as intended.

It's built in charger is slow. It's built in DC charger is also slow.

I'm also directly aware of it having dramatically shortened the life of its internal battery, due to badly designed BMS/lithium management system.

My suggestion allowed you to maintain its core functionality, but also replace one of the worst functioning pieces on the unit with something that does... the solar controller.

A not helpful idea is adding a DC/DC converter, resistor or some other kludge (in my power electronics engineering mind that is).

Assuming you have operating modules, those Trina modules will outperform any brand name or off-brand name 'overland' / RV/12 volt panels out there.

Happy to help you figure it out but seems like you know better.

[SilverForkPhil]

Thanks, Greg - that makes sense and that's the conclusion I have been coming to. It's not the answer I was looking for, but it makes sense.

Now I need to find a use (or several) for those 10 panels

Phil

[SilverForkPhil]

Vt - "snarky response"? You should re-read your first response. And your last one for that matter.

You're no help in helping me "figure it out"

Check, please, over and out

[KDB]

Snarky? Nothing snarky about it. Calling the Kodiak a pos is pretty crude opinion. Your follow up....more helpful.
I've got a Kodiak and it works flawlessly and can be wired up to 600W, granted a lower voltage. It requires proper pairing and it's worked well for me.
Sounds like there may have been a bad batch as there are a few negative reviews. Keep in mind this was a kickstarter item. It may have had a few production glitches. I've got the 1st gen. Works great. They're onto the third gen in just a few years. It's extremely light, portable, and a great supplementary battery for my rig- which i what i use it for. It could easily operate as a stand alone. The recent versions have some quality upgrades. Yes, it requires proper pairing. Doesn't make it a piece of sh%#. Proper tools for the job...

[Gooseberry]

Ok why not use a mppt at say 30amps to put 14vdc into the box ?