1000 watts Tilting Solar, See the Power - Van Build Tech Talk Series - Ep. 1

[@flyshacker]

Loved it! The difference of power generation with the tilt is so extreme that I can't believe more campervans don't have TILTING solar panels. You have shown that tilting is almost as important as the solar panels themselves!

[@SnowAndCurt]

Right!!! When you sit there and can literally see the numbers... it’s crazy!! Thanks for watching!

[@mattolsson8816]

@@SnowAndCurt how often do you have to adjust the panels to get optimum sun? The way they are setup you have to be there to control them to optimize it.. Or do you have a smart controller that handles it at this point?

[@dvanomaly420]

He filmed this early morning to get the most extreme results possible. It's more like a 15% to 30% difference most of the day. More pronounced in winter months though.

[@flyshacker]

@@dvanomaly420 Good point. Still, tilting sure can make a difference.

[@joeblow1942]

@@dvanomaly420. Yes, HUGE difference in the winter.

[@AlexBayes]

I'm in the UK and have 1kw solar panels on my van. After seeing this I am definitely going to get them tilting. I don't have the luxury of the box section on top that you have, bur seeing the watts increase as you lifted the panels was very satisfying!

[@president-of-sale]

Amazing video. Thanks for sharing how to increase the wattage while adjusting the angle

[@wideawaketotruth5301]

Kick ass video dude. Never seen your channel, but now after watching 2 minutes liked and subscribed. Keep it coming man.

[@MrBwalendy]

Very well done. I needed to understand how important it is to tilt panels. Very much appreciated. Thanks so much,

[@SnowAndCurt]

It makes a difference for sure!!

[@UrthCore]

I love what you have done here. You get it while most others don't. Excellent work! Thanks for the video.

[@richyrich908]

You no that bit in crocodile Dundee when the guy pulls the knife and he says.............That's not a knife this is a knife ....that's like your van compared to another van 😂😂 I want hear Curt say it when you pull up at a camp site 😁...that's not a van.......This is a van 😁😁😁👌👌👍☝️☝️

[@SnowAndCurt]

You have Curt chuckling pretty good over here!

[@richyrich908]

@@SnowAndCurt 😂😂👌😁 happy days..

[@richyrich908]

@@SnowAndCurt making Curt laugh from the other side of the world that's class 👍😂😂😂😂

[@MrBwalendy]

I really enjoyed your design. My step van has quit a bit of "real estate" on top. I was planning to install solar panels on rotating "turrets" along with linear actuators. I find it an inconvenience to position my van for the sun. It is, for my application, impractical so two turrets and four panels on linear actuators per turret and about 1.5k of panels. I will post when I get it built over the winter.

[@SnowAndCurt]

That sounds super innovative... we look forward to seeing it for sure! Good luck on your build!

[@TB12710]

i just searched youtube for almost 45 mins looking for your channel because i saw it advertised when i was watching another van living channel, wow thank you for all this valuable information and videos 👍🏻💯

[@SnowAndCurt]

Glad you found us!! I told Curt that his info was too good to not get it out there for others... That's one of the reasons for the ad campaign! Hope you enjoy the series... Be sure to let us know if you have any questions!

[@ChrisOh]

Love the power tilt and how you showed real time change in Watts!

[@SnowAndCurt]

Glad you liked it!

[@donnadelahanty9903]

I always wondered why solar panels didnt tilt. Finally!!!

[@SnowAndCurt]

We wondered too... curt is super pleased with the finished project! Thanks for tuning g in Donna!

[@SN-qu2gz]

OK.. well.. I absolutely must have this then. Very nice. Thanks a lot for costing me thousands.

[@SnowAndCurt]

Oops... Sorry about that! 😂🚐

[@lostgriz]

That is a crazy impressive increase in efficiency with the tilt, well done Sir!

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks!!!

[@MermaidmomUP]

Fantastic! It's technically way over my head, but I think tilting is the way to go. If you're not an engineer Curt, you should be! 👍

[@SnowAndCurt]

I tell him that often!!! 🚐🛠💙

[@majamoore6209]

Thanks for the video Curt! This is awesome, will be including this in my van build next year.I look forward to your upcoming episodes.

[@SnowAndCurt]

Awesome! Hope it helps!

[@brazilianredneck]

Curt for president!!!

[@SnowAndCurt]

LOVE IT!!!

[@spencerchen7462]

Awesome! starting a build soon and not much info on tilting panels. Thank you so much for doing this. Your build is wonderful. A+++

[@SnowAndCurt]

Glad you like it... hope it helps with your build!

[@chipmeister111]

Excellent. thank you for posting this. I knew I wanted angling options for my upcoming build but it's the storage that I never visualized for myself as a possibility. totally awesome.

[@SnowAndCurt]

It was an after thought for us too... But man is it great having an attic!!

[@AnnaGoVanna]

This is brilliant! I want this for my van but my van is already super tall. 😬 I wonder tho. 🤔

[@SnowAndCurt]

Everbody thanks for watching and subscribing. So sorry for the bad audio, but we have fixed those issues moving forward. We have a new Q&A video addressing your questions coming out very soon. Turn on your notifications so you get messaged when it is released. Also, if you have any other questions or topics you would like to see covered please leave them in the comments. As always stay safe. Cheers. BBC

[@SnowAndCurt]

...

[@laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587]

I didn't realize the difference would be that huge

[@SnowAndCurt]

It makes a difference for sure.

[@redhongkong]

love ur solar box, ima gonna make one for my transit

[@SnowAndCurt]

Nice, keep us posted! FYI... plans coming out soon that may help! We are having detailed plans of our van drawn up now. They will be available in October if all goes well! You can visit this link and sign up to be notified when we have them ready to go! CHEERS! gem.godaddy.com/signups/adf3b4660dbb42e4a292a5097150ff46/join

[@independentthinker9113]

Very clever design!

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks!! We are loving how it turned out!

[@vaughnsvideos]

This is what I need on the roof. That is too much for me though. I am looking forward to my next van build, but I wouldn't want to duplicate that effort. You should sell them... Make 3 models for the major van types. There are other companies doing decks and bumpers, but this design is unique and what everyone should want...

[@SnowAndCurt]

Vaughn... that sounds like real “work”! LOL!! 🚐🛠

[@beckyspindler2153]

I had generally the same idea but your way is so much more awesome thanks for sharing! Looking forward to seeing more. And I saved this just so that I could copy your idea or get close to it

[@SnowAndCurt]

Glad we may have helped... good luck with your build!

[@msworkinitout]

I love this concept

[@CatHound]

That's badass! Great job

[@mikefranks4528]

So, Curt, great video! Thanks for the details and the build info. I have some questions: - Is your battery bank 9600 watts at 12 volts? - If so, what is the State of Charge after cooking with the oven and induction cooktop (full day of electric usage)? - do you have the parts list for the solar tilting box build?

[@functionalvanconversion4284]

Amazing setup! 🙌

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks! 😁

[@keithyoung7950]

so cool man, great build.

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks!

[@stevemartin8994]

Great job with the build

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks Steve! It was a labor of love and worth every minute! Thanks for watching!

[@TerryManitoba]

One impressive solar build, the results of the tilt, the attic, and the tilt mechanism. When traveling do you need to fasten the solar panel bank to the attic box?

[@SnowAndCurt]

The actuators lock it down pretty well, but we have a safety strap in place as well!

[@manp1039]

@@SnowAndCurt do you have a fail-safe if the actuators stop functioning while in the locked-down position? Also, aren't the two vents you have in the interior portion of the attic box? If so, I presume that means you have no venting while the attic box is closed? I presume there would be a nice fix for that bu just adding two canals for each to a side of the attic box and drilling some holes on side of the attic box (bedroom vent to backside or rear of side, and livingroom vent to the side attic box) to allow for some airflow?

[@1Azaria1]

I'm so excited for your videos!!! Thank you for sharing these! My husband and I plan to start a build next year. I'm trying to talk him into a year of travel before settling down and having mutants (kids 😂). You're build and your videos are such an inspiration 😍😍😍

[@SnowAndCurt]

We are having a blast... hoping you guys get out here and join us!! Glad you like the videos!

[@1Azaria1]

@@SnowAndCurt planning away! And he's totally in! He saw a van build in person and now hes sold! 😍😍😍 I'm so excited!

[@kathrynclark3117]

I've literally been strangling my brain trying to figure out how to do this lol

[@kenbarnessalisheye546]

Great videos!! I haven't noticed anywhere what length of actuators you use to get the 45 degree lift. (looks like it's over 12 inches) I have one 42 inch wide panel (short side) and am wondering what size actuator I should get. Is there a formula to determine what length will give what lift for different sized panels? And does it depend on how the actuator is positioned? For example, could the extending end of the actuator be bolted to the middle of the panel's cross brace? Thank you!

[@damonbilling7746]

Definitely an intentional & strategic build. Why heat absorbing black and not cooling white for the attic? I thought you were heating water in the attic when I first saw black.

[@SnowAndCurt]

Surprisingly... it doesn’t get hot in the attic... the top of the attic is covered in solar panels, most of the heat gets absorbed there. The reason for the black?? We had the material powder coated for better durability, black was our only option from the material supplier.

[@damonbilling7746]

@@SnowAndCurt Ah ok. Thanks.

[@Steve78204]

that is awesome, unfortunately I am technically clumsy. can the solar roof box be bought anywhere?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Nope .. it's custom! We do sell the plans though. www.vanbuildworkshop.com

[@apucenter.com115]

Very interesting video and concept. How much weight did this add with gear panels all in? How does it affect fuel efficiency and handling? Anything you might change?

[@toadbroz30]

BOZEMAN?!?!?! I WISH I COULD HAVE SEEN YOUR VAN!

[@SnowAndCurt]

That would have been great! We love meeting up with folks when it works out...m sorry we missed the chance with you!

[@cscho12]

We love this system and are thinking of incorporating it into our sprinter build! Do you have any links or resources to your battery banks, as well as the additional alternator you installed?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Sorry for late reply... some how youtube held this comment for review?? Anyway, curt has added several tech talk videos over the past month... head over to our channel and see if he might have answered your question... if not, let us know!

[@ThePearlist1]

Geeeezzzz this is So Cool!!! 🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛

[@petrdjak]

Hello Curt, thank you for leveraging the idea of tilting solar. I am in the end of planning my own van and going to start building. Thanks to you I am also going to create aluminium 80/20 frame on the roof with solars mounted inside. But I will do it flat to keep the van stealth - i hope it will look like "regular" roof rack from the side. There will be some relative small protuberances in the middle of the roof to give actuators some angle, but these protuberances should not be much visible from the side because the van is quite high. The feature I am going to add is AUTOMATIC TILTING - I am going to use Arduino to measure watt income from the roof and to control the actuators. Simple program in Arduino will then find the best angle for example every 15 minutes. Did you think about idea of automatic tilting? Thank you very much for inspiration, there will be spirit of you in my van! Cheers!

[@flywrite]

Are you writing that program yourself or is the coding posted somewhere? This is exactly what I've been looking for. I'd be very interested to see your build. Snow & Curt's was very helpful as well.

[@petrdjak]

Hello Jennifer, I am going to write that program myself. But first I need to build the van itself. I got big plans also including "intelligent" air circulation using ventilation pipes with motorized air duct dampers controlled by Arduiono. I also got prepared even bigger lithium battery than Curt has (600 Ah at 24,8 V) so I can afford to use instant water heating faucets and electric heating. My charging will be based only on 3x 250W solar and, If I need it, common chargers for electric vehicles. At the moment I am not planning to share my build online. If you contact me later, I can keep you updated. :-)

[@flywrite]

@@petrdjak Thank you! I've added this to my notes. I'm in the process of finishing the building of my house and when it's done this spring I'll be listing it. When it sells I'll buy the 5th wheel I want and at that point will add the solar so maybe you'll have the program figured out. If not, maybe I will and I'll share the coding with you. I've been itching to write some code for an Arduino or one of the other boards.

[@SnowAndCurt]

-

[@zayvier69]

When you are done tilting your solar panels and return them to the flat position - what keeps them from flying up when you drive? Is there a locking latch? Or the piston arms that raise and close Also just keep the panels flat even with wind on highways

[@texanlss5531]

Really like it

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks Texan LSS... Cheers!

[@raducristodoru9050]

Very good description. Few question please. 1.The actuator "ECO-WORTHY Heavy Duty 330lb, 18 in" is exactly what you have used? 2.The 2" header tubes are at 1/4 from the edge of the lid? 3.What is the max tilt angle of the lid? 4. You told me about the 2"x2" tube of the header. How the 2x2 tube of the footers worked? Any problem with them? 5. Any reason you used 2x2 tube instead of 2x2 profile you used for frame? Thank you for your time. Enjoy the rest of the journey.

[@sjackson99]

Great video. Seeing the results at different times of the morning was awesome, but that 9;30a one was a little sketchy. You stopped at around 20 degrees but an hour later you were tilted up higher. It looks like your panels will only tilt up to about 45 degrees. In the wintertime, you could benefit from tilting them higher. There are phone apps where you can calculate the angle of the sun based on the time of year/day and your location. I built my own simple panel rack to save money and it turned out I can tilt it from either side, although I have to do it from a ladder. Automating it would really be nice but I wouldn't want to lose the ability to tilt from either side so that would take some extra thought and money. I have 4 of the same panels that you have and they're not light. Including the rack I'm guessing around 130# but I only have to lift half of that and the farther I lift them the lighter they get. lol

[@SnowAndCurt]

Tilting both ways is nice!! But, manual lifting sounds tough.... Hope you can come up with a way to do both! Let us know if you do. Thanks for tuning in!

[@hackman88]

using 4 actuators in 2x2 scissors configuration and no hinge would allow you to tilt both way and also add another axis. These electrical linear actuators are screw drives so they can move relatively large loads and can bear even larger static loading. You can browse some on amazon

[@JeremyMARQUES]

@@hackman88 This sound very interesting but I can't figure out this configuration or find any information on my own. Could you point me in the right direction, to understand how this would work?

[@iansilver-ramp595]

You think it would be possible to add a tracking mechanism to this? Awesome work!!

[@SnowAndCurt]

You could, but we opted not to... Didn't want it to be tracking and wind come up. It has a remote and we can see the monitor, so really easy to adjust! But, not saying it wouldn't be right for the right person... Let us know if you give it a try!

[@FamilyYoung-OneLifeLiveITxx]

Mate i have the very same vehicle & have been looking at drawing up exactly the same set up, i will jin here so you get a little remuneration,ps how can I down load the plans,Many thanks & you smashed it bro,smashed it

[@SnowAndCurt]

Just launched our van plan site yesterday... www.vanbuildworkshop.com Keep us posted!

[@melodydean152]

In one of your videos you mentioned that you were going to come out with another video on the attic. I've searched for about an hour and have not been able to find it. I'm interested in knowing what you put up there and how you secure it so what you store doesn't destroy your solar panels or your fan. Also how you protect what's on the roof from water.

[@NOMADNEWSTV]

Amazing stuff!

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks!!! 🚐🛠

[@pamelatanner788]

Did you take down the video you had posted that was more focused on the attic build and not so much on the solar? You were sitting outside in the video -- I think you were in Mexico? I can't find it on youtube now. Thanks.

[@patcellucci3431]

Curt, Have you considered putting in two actuators so that you can tilt them either way?

[@SnowAndCurt]

We've thought about it a bit in hindsight... But we like the security of one side bring somewhat permanently attached... In case of extra crazy wind. Also, our windows are mainly on the side that the panels tilt away from, do that helps with keeping the van cool. So, I do believe it could be done, but we do not regret not doing it. If you give it a try... Keep us posted on how it turns out!

[@stevepaulmckenna]

TOTAL TIME TO BUILD & COST??? Thanks Great Video!!!

[@SnowAndCurt]

Curt has put together a Van Cost Series (5 episodes in total) that will break down how much it cost to build our van, how you can build something similar with different budgets, and what it might cost to have one built for you! Here is a link to that playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLiZy6rmwh72pWbGTncdKv0f6pxUuisUMO

[@Chasingthesun2019]

Where do you house your batteries? How’d you close in the outer wall of the attic?

[@DGinthehouse]

This was so helpful. Thanks! How many days can you go off-grid with this set up?

[@SnowAndCurt]

With power, we can stay off grid forever! But, our water supply lasts us 5-7 days. If we are super conservative and take an extra five gallons with us, we could likely do 10 days.

[@mike.garnham]

Is it my computer? I have tried to watch 2 of your videos and the sound has been poor (or worse). Can you get this sorted?

[@SnowAndCurt]

It’s on our end... sorry! We are newbies. One computer seems to be fine, the other is giving us a fit. We will get it sorted. We made the decision to let this one go out, even with the sound, because people were asking for it and we are headed into some national parks where we won’t have service for several days. Promise to do better for you guys... 🚐🛠🎥

[@liedebunker1253]

Yep. The tilt of solar panels should be adjustable to get the most solar power.

[@dune_tech]

very educational! what`s the height of the attic? interesting to see if you noticed any difference in terms of how the van drives.

[@SnowAndCurt]

We explain that in a Q&A video we did from the 'Frequently Asked Questions' we got from our Van Tour video... here is the link! Thanks for tuning in Dunetech! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3exnZ6ar72YrKc

[@seanpeine9258]

How much does your box effect your gas mileage? Do you have a website with detailed plan build? Really appreciate you sharing super impressed with your set up.

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks for the kind words... the only details we have on the van build are the Tech Talk Videos. Our heater and hit water heater use diesel from our tank, so it’s hard to get an accurate number on the gas mileage. Our best guess is that we average about 14mpg... we think the box is taking away 2-3 mpg. But, the trade off was worth it for us! Thanks for tuning in.

[@kathyhep]

Please, what hinges did you use on the box please

[@pvdd1]

Snow and Curt. I have been viewing many of your videos as we recently purchased a 3500 Sprinter and are planning a complete buildout over the next 6-12 months. One issue I have not found an answer to on any of your videos is more details about the 2nd alternator you installed. You mentioned the price of $3,800 for parts and installation, however, you don't provide any details on the alternator itself. Can I find this information somewhere? or can you provide some details about the 2nd alternator here?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Exciting times for you... The build is so fun! Here is where we got the alternator... We would not build a van without one! 😁 www.nationsstarteralternator.com/

[@zayvier69]

When you’re panels are tilted and in good sun each day and charging as maximum as they can- how low do your batteries get with your daily use while they’re charging? Just curious how that much solar and batteries stay topped off or what percentage -with your normal daily use? Also- do you think that all the juice these panels are collecting are all being stored in your batteries? Or you would need more batteries or you did the math and your batteries capture all the juice these panels can put out?

[@manp1039]

i would like to know more about angled aerodynamic piece you added to the front of box

[@SnowAndCurt]

It's a wind guard designed for fifth wheels or horse trailers... We adapted a bit during the install and it works perfect!

[@manp1039]

@@SnowAndCurt thanks. You got a brand model or link to the one you used?

[@mike.repucci]

Nice job on your attic Curt. A couple of questions: what do you use for your hinge components? Did you consider using an 80/20 hinge designed for attaching 1010 profiles? Also, even though it's snug tight to the L-bracket when closed, don't you have to lock it down to help prevent lifting from the air flow and vibrating on rough roads?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Hi Mike... see if this video gets you your answers! thanks kzbin.info/www/bejne/f6i2lKmca6aYe7s

[@mike.repucci]

@@SnowAndCurt Thank you. Quite helpful.

[@raducristodoru9050]

And also did you leave a gap between the panels? How big?

[@maidelie]

Thanks for so much valuable information! Do you think the attic keeps the roof fans from working as cooly and/or efficiently as they could?

[@MaureenTheTemp]

That's my question as well, would like to know if they can operate the fans with the "lid" down or does it have to be up a little?

[@SnowAndCurt]

The attic is not air or water right, air circulates within the attic. We notice know difference in the fans if the panels are up or down. In fact... the ceiling seems to feel much cooler with attic closed. 🚐🛠💙

[@YourMajesty143]

@@SnowAndCurt - Where do you guys keep the A/C ---if you even have it?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Our AC is under chassis... Got to our channel ... Curt has a tech talk series and one is dedicated to the AC

[@YourMajesty143]

@@SnowAndCurt - Cool beans (literally), thank you!

[@melissahoffman4687]

Do you have a heater?

[@ranatoliy]

Even considering the summary at 4:24 of this video, you have combined available wattage in sunny day under 2000 watts. It's critical for your induction cooktop (typically 1800W) and you can't use the cooktop when sun is not available. I can't also understand how you can run your AC unit overnight powered just by 1000WH battery. Did I miss something? Thanks in advance for clarification.

[@SnowAndCurt]

We have 800 amp HOURS of lithium batteries to store up plenty of power from our solar. We can easily cook on our cook top and run the AC... our power has yet to get low enough to be critical. If it is not sunny, we have the option of cranking the engine for a bit and charging the batteries via a second alternator. That alternator charges batteries whenever we drive (unless we are full and then we turn it off). We have a 3000 watt inverter to help run our induction cook top and our June Oven. Hope that helps to clarify. Thanks for tuning in!

[@ranatoliy]

Thank you so much for so quick answer. Let's do simple mass: to get 1800W for your cooktop you need 120V x 15A or 12V x 150A! You refer to the battery "Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery - 100Ah 12v". So, you need 1.5 times more power that your battery can supply according to the specifications.

[@ranatoliy]

I have just found in your other video, that your 12V AC consumes 600-700W in total, so, you need 50-56A to operate it. It means that your AC assembly can run continuously only 2 hours from fully charged battery.

[@SnowAndCurt]

We can run air for 4-ish hours.... And cook on our induction for 20 minutes.... And run our lights, fans, and charge our devices before our batteries get critically low. We can debate it all day.... But, all we know is that on our end we are good to go. Again, thanks for tuning in... Feel free to check out our other videos! Cheers!

[@SnowAndCurt]

PS... This is Snow. I reply to most of our comments. I don't pretend to understand how the system works, I just know it does! Lol!! Wanted to clarify that part, cause obviously, I can't discuss the tech side of our system in a ton of detail! 😂😁

[@Chasingthesun2019]

How deep is your box?

[@PathsLessTravelled1]

Hey Snow & Curt. Glad you're all OK after the break-in attempt the other night. I am currently working on a van build and have taken a few ideas from you. I am debating whether it is worth the expense and effort to tilt my solar (800W) in a similar manner to yours. So, my question is this, three years on do you tilt the solar as much as you thought you would? I don't plan on building an attic so taking the utility of that out of the equation, would you still build a tilting solar array?

[@nicolassavoie5870]

Hi there, im designing a rack as well and I was wondering how high is your box section of the rack? around 12 inch? And is your van the high roof model?

[@TheFilmmakersTimeChamber]

@snow and curt Brilliant brilliant set up and demonstration! Well done indeed. Big question... Is it possible to rig up 4 actuators and have two lift two panels one way for the morning, and the other two actuators lift the other two panels the other way for pm sun?

[@SnowAndCurt]

I think it can be done with a bit more engineering and cost. I will explain in my next Q&A video.

[@TheFilmmakersTimeChamber]

@@SnowAndCurt Ah thank you for your response, I greatly look forward to your video! Thank you again and brilliant job again 🙏🏽

[@johnday594]

Nice setup. What did you use to enclose the sides of the "attic"? Is that thin sheet metal? Also, did you incorporate that into the grooves in the 80/20, or did you attach it to the outside of the frame?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Thanks John. The original intent was to use the grooves, but we called an audible. If the actuators were to stop working, we needed a way to access them without tilting the panels. So, we use hinges and licks for each section. We also believe this allows more air to circulate thru to supply the Maxx air fans. And, yes, it's sheet metal that we ordered pre cut to size.

[@occamraiser]

How much does the drag from the gigantic construction on the roof affect the van's fuel use..... If you drive a lot a generator might have been more cost effective since it's a fraction of the cost of that solar system and batteries and charger and fuel use.

[@SnowAndCurt]

We actually get pretty decent mileage! And we hate the sound of a generator when we are wild camping out in nature. So, the solar set up is perfect for what we wanted. :-)

[@vanderlustforever7134]

I noticed you used the British Aero wind deflector to divert air up over your attic box. I had one of those for my SUV when I towed my travel trailer to cut down resistance and stabilize more, but I like your use of it more. I have a Thor sequence class B with one 190W and I want to add more solar and I’m trying to think of a way to instal solar over the top of the AC, fantastic fan cover and Winegard, or along side of them with narrow or tilting panels. Any suggestions ?

[@SnowAndCurt]

I think you could do a similar attic box on top of your class b... but, I think you would need to add a vent fan or two to make sure the AC gets enough air. With our design, the maxx air fans get plenty of air when the attic is closed, but an AC may need more. And the wind guard works great, only had to make a few modifications to mount it for our purpose. Thanks for tuning in!

[@vanderlustforever7134]

Snow & Curt I appreciate your input. I probably should have mention I have the Thule track system running the full length of the roof that came standard on the sequence. If I could send photos here will would but basically at the very back I have a Jegs cargo container on top of the Thule cargo rack that they provided attached to the Thule tracks and in front of that is the 190 solar panel and then the AC, Fantastic fan with rain cover, and then the round Winegard TV antenna/WiFi/LTE booster at the front. The tracks run along side and there is a good gap on either side between the AC, Vent, and antenna, where I could lay some narrow solar parallel to the van, but I thought maybe just find a way to make some very tall track mounts to raise two or three more of the the same kind of panel I have already, on top and over the AC, and other times. Really wish I could post a photo. I think a full tilting box is not in order, but either an along side tilt fit some narrow panels attached to the one Thule track on either side or a manual hand tilt mechanism on the panels mounted over the rooftop accessories, or just a stationary mount of all panels, despite the lack of efficiency. I don’t think I have the technical know how to do more than that. Also, what is needed to converge al the panels in to one system ? I have two round solar outlets with the ONE go power panel I believe. Can everything be run down through that or does it need to have a new box to connect more panels.

[@stacy2155]

I love your solar tilting roof system! I'm converting a 170 Sprinter van right now, and am ordering solar components for a 875W system. I'm having a tough time finding solar MC4 connectors for the higher amps needed for parallel wiring. So, I decided to check out your system. I noticed your wires are 10 gauge and the connectors are 30A. So, does that mean you wired the panels in series? Does that seriously affect the performance of the panels if you have partial shade?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Curt spent a ton of time on the phone with tech support (from the place we bought the solar devices)... they were very helpful. Took a few tries to get it right, but it works like a charm now. Your best bet is going to be to call them when you are sitting in front of your elextrical panel... I am sure they weill be able to walk you thru it!

[@KAnneMeinel]

How do you determine how many batteries you need. Say if you had your set up and added four panels somehow? What more would you need?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Curt says to check out htis video... and also, when talking with battery/solar panel vendors, they can give some great advice! kzbin.info/www/bejne/eH-aoZ58jZ6orJY

[@joeblow1942]

Do you offer plans for this?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Yes, message us for details

[@joeblow1942]

@@SnowAndCurt Thanks. Where do I send the message?

[@HuangXingQing]

What would be the minimum height a person could design for this box? I like it all but it's a bit high for me.

[@leannakeightley4211]

OMG! This is exactly what I want to do to my Chevy Express Van. A few years ago I found a video where a couple mounted their solar panels over their vent fan to not only hide the fan for stealth parking but it also acted as a weather shield. I was searching for that video when I came across yours. And this is a way better solution. With all the high tops on cargo van these days, this will hide all my gear I want to carry on top and the vent fans as well as install the maximum amount of solar panels on the roof. This is genius! My only question is this. I did not quite hear how you installed the box to the roof. Can you comment specifically on how you did that? I am trying to find some universal gutter mounts that will work with the 80/20 t-slot system. Does anyone have any ideas on that? Thanks!

[@SnowAndCurt]

The bottom rail on the 80/20 is hooked to the van with riv-nuts... on 12" centers the length of all of the rails. Hope this helps!

[@leannakeightley4211]

@@SnowAndCurt Yep! That does help. It is what I thought you said but I just wasn't sure. Thanks for replying!

[@hackman88]

Any experience/issues in high winds?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Hit some decent winds on the road one day that inspired is to add an extra safety strap... So far we've had no real issues! We can tell that the quarentine has lots of folks building or planning van builds because we are getting tons of questions! So, Curt is going to do a few van build q&a vids... And a follow up on some of our previous vids. He will address the attic a bit.! Look for the videos to start next week! Thanks for tuning in! 🚐🎥

[@WolwX]

Great job ! What model of Lithium battery do you have ? I plan to buy a Victron one, but that's expensive, and you have 8 battery ! ^^'

[@SnowAndCurt]

GBS is our batteries... they are pricey, but we are pleased with them!

[@hispringtime]

Did you mention the cost of the attic box build? I might have missed it :)

[@SnowAndCurt]

We have not done a cost breakdown on our van... We didn't keep as good of records as we should have! Sorry!

[@Olivetreedisciples3887]

How do you get air circulation, for your vents, with this attic box?

[@jonnapaz]

Looking for the answer to that question and how the attic was built please

[@Shandra_Ree]

I believe they said it wasn't air tight so air passes through freely and that they have noticed it is cooler when they have the attic closed.

[@EricPeelMusic]

I'm attempting to duplicate this as much as possible for my van. Thank you so, so much for explaining all the details! Out of curiosity, how much would you estimate the panels, lid 80/20, header, and all lid hardware to weigh in at?

[@SnowAndCurt]

All I have for you is that Snow and I could lift the frame easily to move it around. And for install, the frame was in two pieces and we were able to lift it up on to the van without any worries... it was awkward due to size, so for the van install we had a third person help us. So, not too heavy at all.

[@paveloleynik2743]

I am curious if you thought about two layers of solar systems and lower layer would come out and all system would tilt?.

[@SnowAndCurt]

We didn't think about doing that, but we have seen pictures of it!

[@paveloleynik2743]

@@SnowAndCurt Thank you.

[@elijahcbr6009]

Are the actuators the only thing that hold the lid closed? No exterior latches?

[@SnowAndCurt]

There are latches... And a safety strap!

[@elijahcbr6009]

@@SnowAndCurt thanks for the reply. Manual latches or remote?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Acctuators run on remote... Safety latch is manual. Curt can reach if he stands on the side rail and stretches! 😀

[@KamberKahu]

What is your total height (including attic and solar panels) and length? I love this idea. I want to add a kayak 14.6 x 23.5. Wondering if I can fit it inside the attic with a rear access door to the attic and a drop down sliding mechanism to slide it inside the attic. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated 😊.

[@SnowAndCurt]

We explain that in a Q&A video we did from the 'Frequently Asked Questions' we got from our Van Tour video... here is the link! Thanks for tuning in Kamber Geary! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3exnZ6ar72YrKc

[@KamberKahu]

@@SnowAndCurt Thank you 😊

[@jk55.]

👍

[@fingersmith3]

Did you weld all the aluminium together or would it be possible with just screws and rivets?

[@SnowAndCurt]

No welding... You use the appropriate fittings... They come from a company called 80/20 😊

[@fingersmith3]

Also what type of sheet did you guys use on the outside of the attic to cover the walls?

[@Heffemontanas]

Great video and a real inspiration. What kind of batteries and could you do a video on the build?

[@SnowAndCurt]

There won’t be a build video... we didn’t document enough during building... but we plan on doing several different vids on some specific items in our van. The batteries are GBS lithium ion

[@atomickato]

Hi Curt - love this - i watched this vid and got a custom rack made for my sprinter for tilting the solar panels, just a questions, where did you get the wind defelctor at the front? Is it fibreglass? mine is not boxed in at the front so is a wind deflector essential? or would there be too much uplift and noise? cheers from Australia

[@SickDogFitness]

Curtis, did you consider adding a triangular section in the front of the box, above the cab, to make the shape of the box a little more aerodynamic?

[@SnowAndCurt]

We bought a wind deflector designed to be used for fifth wheels and modified it a bit to fit our attic. It is working great. The one we bought is hard to source... they didn’t have them on amazon at the time. But, now there is one on amazon that is similar to ours. Check it out here: Check out this Idea List on Amazon: Van Build Solar by ChillDaze w/ Snow and Curt www.amazon.com/shop/snowandcurt?listId=ZST9225C4TIU&ref=idea_share_inf

[@SnowAndCurt]

We did not... we always planned on just adding some sort of deflector.

[@radu98012]

Hi Curt. I found some recommendations that the solar panel should be double in power than the battery bank. For each 100 Amps you should have 200 watts in solar. In your case for 800 probably 1600 watt in solar. How the system works with only 1080 watt? Did you have any problems? Could you charge the batteries to full only with the solar panels? Did you experience any difficulties? I'm thinking if I need to increase solar panels to 1600 or not. I really appreciate your input after over 1 year testing the system. Thank you.

[@SnowAndCurt]

Hi there! We have had zero issues... but, that likely all depends on how much you use it and the amount of sun. The first two months we were in the van, we did not have the second alternator, and we could charge to 100%, but were limited on the amount of AC we could run. Maybe if we were spending all of our time in an area with a lot of overcast weather... but, we move quite a bit and tend to look for brighter days! So, maybe if you can squeeze another panel up there to help out, go ahead... but we do not think you need double. In our opinion!

[@radu98012]

@@SnowAndCurt Thank you for your opinion. Still waiting for the book? plans?.

[@scottmcintosh2988]

I was thinking of using a dump truck tarp system that uses a starter motor and a spring . How much is the liner actuator cost ? Where did you get it ?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Got it from Amazon... you can get to our amazon store from our website www.thechilldaze.com they have a great customer service department!

[@sanfordzeitz9077]

So, if the lid is tilted, does that mean if you leave the van for a hike, the possessions in the box are unsecured?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Yes... you are correct. I imagine you could put some sort of light weight mesh/grate type cover that would help. And also, no ladder mounted on the outside of the van.

[@trevortirrell]

With your 3000W inverter can you run the stove and oven at the same time?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Nope... that is a bit too much!

[@Mik3_Lyf3]

Are you going to make them for sale and could it work if you have the factory a/c?

[@SnowAndCurt]

We are having van plans drawn up now... So you could have one built for you. Sign up to get an email when the plans are ready over on our website www.TheChillDaze.com Ours is the perfect height for our Maxx air fans to open and operate. The height could be adjusted a couple of inches I guess, but likely not much more before it started watching too much wind.

[@Steven-e7c]

Hello I have some questions. Do you have to have the solar lid tilted open for your 2 large fans to work? How about the bathroom vent? If they do work with the solar lid down, do they work better with it up? If you were to design it again would you change anything? Lastly, what is the exact fan model you chose?

[@SnowAndCurt]

MAXX Air Deluxe is our fan. We explain that in a Q&A video we did from the 'Frequently Asked Questions' we got from our Van Tour video... here is the link! Thanks for tuning in S! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3exnZ6ar72YrKc

[@ridesoftail]

Do you have any way of automatically have it adjust and what about wind if it gets to much have it go to a safe angle?

[@SnowAndCurt]

No auto adjust... and we would never leave them up if we were not there with the van... so if wind or storm comes, we could close them.

[@tarrabirdsell7695]

Did you use 80/20 as roof rails? Is it one solid piece on each side?

[@SnowAndCurt]

Yes and yes. We can tell that the quarentine has lots of folks building or planning van builds because we are getting tons of questions! So, Curt is going to do a few van build q&a vids... And a follow up on some of our previous vids. He will address the attic a bit.! Look for the videos to start next week! Thanks for tuning in! 🚐🎥

[@tarrabirdsell7695]

@@SnowAndCurt Thanks! I was going back and forth but I'm pretty set on 80/20 now. We are rushing because it's almost hail season where we live and we can't find a hail bubble big enough for our 170ext so we are going to throw some rails on it, attach some plywood, and hope for the best.

[@SnowAndCurt]

Oh wow!! Good luck on beating the hail!! FYI... Curt is going to explain this in the follow up vid, but just do you guys know since you have to hurry... He used riv-nuts to attach the bars to the roof! Keep us posted!