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Starting my camper shell build-out. Help and Suggestions

Discussion in 'Travel' started by pacificexplorer, Oct 31, 2015.

  1. Oct 31, 2015 at 2:14 PM
    #1
    pacificexplorer

    pacificexplorer [OP] Member

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    Hey guys,

    I have just bought a snug top camper shell for my truck with the purpose of completely building it out right (the first time) and hitting the road. I am very skilled in carpentry, building, and making things move and work. Unfortunately, I am not skilled at all with electrical and solar systems which to me is the major part of this deal. I plan on installing two 100w mono panels on top running to either 3 95aH deep cell batteries. Also I want to install a 30 amp RV hookup for when I am camping in a park.

    Any suggestions as in specific parts or brands you would use including amperage, voltage, watts ect. wiring diagrams, specific dos and donts would also be helpful. I really want to do this right and not just have it rigged up quick. I am very capable of doing this myself with a little instruction. I am open to all ideas.

    Here is everything I want to accomplish.
    I want to be able to charge my batteries with the trucks alternator when the truck is running, (I'm guessing a continuous duty solenoid?) yet when my truck is turned off I want the solar panels to kick in and start charging but as soon as the batteries are done charging I would like for the whole system to shut off (charge controller?). Also would be nice to manually shut down the system completely to run power off of the RV hookup. I want the RV hookup to run directly to the outlets safely if possible.
    I really want to prolong battery life, thats why I want to be able to shut down and turn on the system manually, If i can run deep discharges above 30% then back to full instead of a bunch of small discharges to say 70-90% back to full charge would this accomplish a prolonged battery life? or the option of discharging one battery at a time or two or three. I know boats use a switch that allows that option of battery 1, 2 or both. can this be applied and is it viable?

    Also let me know if the solar system listed above is overkill or under. I am a minimalist so i only plan on running my computer for school work, a small fan, or ceramic heater depending on the season, and some small led lights or a small lamp. maybe a small electric stove in the mornings.

    Thanks in advance guys.
     
  2. Oct 31, 2015 at 2:24 PM
    #2
    jwctaco

    jwctaco Retired, going slow in the fast lane

    Joined:
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    SW Michigan
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    man it sounds like your going to build a sweet setup! check out the expo therads, show some pics of progress. i built one for my old truck. it was nice, stored my fishing and camping gear,but it got heavy,all 1/2 inch 9 ply.
     
  3. Oct 31, 2015 at 2:34 PM
    #3
    pacificexplorer

    pacificexplorer [OP] Member

    Joined:
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    definitely going to do a complete progress report and possibly instructable once i am finished. plan on putting 2in rigid insulation on the floor and side walls and laying a thin piece of plyboard or subfloor on top with tool storage on the side and bed on the other. Very minimal as I need to keep the weight strictly for power supply and tools.
    I appreciate the feedback @jwctaco.
     
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