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Old 09-06-2013, 07:54 AM   #1
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Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

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I have poured through threads on here and seen a combo of many things. I will be fine with 100 Watt Solar Panel and a deep cell 12volt battery. Just need to purchase.

I am thinking... But open for any recommendations.

One of these three for 100 Watt Solar panel:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/COMPLETE-KIT-10 ... 0320440364

http://www.ul-solar.com/RV_Solar_Power_ ... 5-mc15.htm

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Complete-Kit-10 ... 7760716%26


One of these Trojan batteries:
http://www.apexbattery.com/12v-group-24 ... QgodqkIAOg

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Old 09-06-2013, 08:04 AM   #2
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Re: Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

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Old 09-06-2013, 08:30 AM   #3
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Re: Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

Quote:
Originally Posted by shadzima
The panel mounting brackets seem the standard brackets most panel sellers offer, so I think that's a good thing.

Is there a physical storefront in the US, or is this only a shell business offering made in China gear? There's nothing inherently wrong with made in China gear, but is you need warranty service/replacement you may not have any luck. IMO, much of the made in China gear is so cheap because the sellers don't concern themselves with providing any service after the sale. The panel has a 25 year warranty (I assume a panel performance warranty), but a lot of these storefronts come and go so the warranty may not help you.


Quote:
Originally Posted by shadzima
The panel tilt mechanism appears to only tilt in one, direction. If this is the case, you would have to adjust what direction you park to take any advantage of the tilt mechanism. That said, most people do not have a tilt mechanism and solar charging works just fine. Tilt, in the proper direction, will give you more available power.

Same comment as above regarding the storefronts.


Quote:
Originally Posted by shadzima
Same comment as above regarding the storefronts.


All the above panels seem to be more or less similar. If you go with any panel from businesses like these, I'd recommend buying from whichever company has an actual physical storefront, and which has been around the longest. IMO, you're trading cost for service and support. Not necessarily a bad thing if you plan on treating a solar panel as a disposable commodity.


Quote:
Originally Posted by shadzima
*****FEEDBACK PLEASE*****

One of these Trojan batteries:
http://www.apexbattery.com/12v-group-24 ... QgodqkIAOg
Nothing wrong with that battery, but considering buying a brand that can be replaced when you're far from home. I just picked up a DieHard Platinum for my Bronco, primarily so I can easily get it replaced if I'm hundreds, if not thousands of miles from home. The battery you list is likely relatively cheaper because it only has a 12 month warranty on it. No mention if it's a pro-rated warranty, or a full replacement warranty. In my oberservations, if they don't specify the exact nature of the warranty, the warranty is not tipped in the direction of the consumer. My DieHard has a 48 month full replacement warranty


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Old 09-06-2013, 08:54 AM   #4
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Re: Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

Herb,

Thanks! I never thought about buying local, good call. I have a Camp World membership, there is a huge store in San Marcos and I will be near there later today.
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Old 09-06-2013, 09:19 AM   #5
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Re: Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

You may want to check on some US based Online companies:

Highly Recommended :
http://www.windsun.com/

http://www.amsolar.com/



Both of these sites not only sell solar gear but also have a lot of information on the topic.


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Old 09-06-2013, 04:35 PM   #6
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Re: Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

Greg,

Thanks for the links. I liked the package deal these guys have: http://www.amsolar.com/

I stopped by Camping World today, no solar. Doing to look at Diehard batteries tomorrow at Sears.
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Old 09-07-2013, 02:48 PM   #7
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Re: Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

Usually shipping on batteries kills you, so shopping locally for at least the battery is a good idea. Discount warehouses usually have AGMs, as do 4x4 places, marine supply, etc. Some would have the solar stuff as well. Costco had some great deals on panels with free shipping from Grape Solar; not sure that's still around.
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Old 09-07-2013, 09:56 PM   #8
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Re: Solar Panel and Deep Cell Battery

Thanks Rob!

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