Solar question - 2022 Rubicon 1708BH

[Bob Tedmond]

Our new 2022 Rubicon 1708BH has “Go Power solar” on board w/factory installed panel and controller. There is also a “solar on the side” port on the side of the trailer.

When I use this port with my portable panel, (to follow the sun) do I need to use the controller on my portable panel, or does the “Solar on the side” port input to the installed controller along with the factory installed panel?

Thanks

[dsol]

I am guessing l, but I suppose the controller is wired to the panel on your roof that came with the trailer and the port on the side is likely straight to the battery and requires a controller too.

I suspect this is the case because a controller is designed to handle a maximum amount of wattage and someone could plug anything into that port which could exceed the controller’s capacity.

I had a rig about 7 or 8 years ago that had a panel on the roof and a controller. In that case the manufacturer said that controller could accommodate one additional panel, in other words no more than one.

However, that is entirely a guess.

[Bob Tedmond]

Hey thanks! That makes complete sense the way you put it! I’ve been a communications tech for almost 40 years, I should have thought of that. By requiring it’s own controller it’s protecting the factory installed solar.

[Cruyf60]

Bob, I have the same setup. I assume you have two batteries. Are your red and black load wires from the camper both go to the first battery?