Solar Set Up

Good point! I have actually changed those since I took those pics. The crappy ones came with the inverters.

Iv also added a connector that allows me to tie multiple batteries together tho I don't have multiple batteries at this point. It will also allow me to use jumper cables.

 

Hmmmm, seems like for as short as those cables are, and the low amperage permitted by the things inside the box, it looks like it'd be OK. I've used welding cables for high-current runs that go the entire length of the vehicle, and they darn sure have a place in some builds.

 

It helps for phones and gps when we are out hunting. It's 80W. We built a larger unit using the same 100W Renogy modules you have but it's too difficult to lug around for a couple of days.

 

Ball park....I'd say $1500 but that's with 2 inverters. You really can get by with one inverter but I'm not that kind of guy. The Reliable 2500 pure sine I got "open box" for $250 and the Krieger 3000 was $300.

Got the case used off eBay for $90 otherwise that's a $300 case!

I didn't really buy any tools to do it as I had most anything I needed.

I need to add it all up and get some more exact numbers

 

Awesome build! How to you keep that from overheating under load? Do you keep the lid open when in use?

 

Honestly, I don't totally know yet. An easy solution is opening the case of running heavy load or extended use, particularly in Texas heat. But I'm brainstorming some other ideas.

Haven't got to use it much other than farting around the house. It should run some pretty substantial items with 3000 watts. But I'm not one of those electrical guys with a bunch of formulas and theoretical run times at different draws and such...im medical guy by day and jack of all other and master of none.

I may try to get out to camp this weekend. I'm mostly just a prepper and would be planning to charge rechargeable batteries, coms gear, and other small items. Portability was key for me tho I did build some luxury into the case.

 

With this connector I can connect to jumper cables or string in another battery.

Just have to cut the clamps off one end of the jumpers and put this adapter on.

 

Nice build. Any reason you dont just bolt the panels to your tonneau cover? I added a flexible to my roof. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/solar-panel-install.472522/

 

Deep cycle batteries aren't meant to be used as starting batteries/jump starting. Some of the Marine dual purpose batteries (Yellow Top) are fine for this.

 

I wouldn't be using at as a primary way to start a car but if I'm in a bind I certainly would.

 

I just don't care to drive around with them exposed

 

$1541 is the total iv got with panels. But again subtract $250-300 depending on 1 or 2 inverter set up. I could probably do it $100 cheaper if I were to repeat.

It's comparable to the goal zero yeti 1250 I suppose. But the GZ is only 1250 watt inverter and only 100ah trash Chinese battery. It runs about $1800 with panels.

This is double the wattage and at least 35% more battery and most importantly, I learned something new and my skills are that much better.

 

Side note. If anyone is ever looking for premium weld lead for electrical connections, this is top of the line stuff at lengths you normally can't find

https://weldingsupply.com/cgi-bin/einstein.pl?Next::1:UNDEF:OR:terms::PA2