Ecoflow Solar Panel Install / Jeep XJ / Hard Shell Roof Top Tent

In this video I install x2 100w Solar Panels onto my Roof Top Tent. The Wildland Desert Cruiser is a hard shell aluminium tent but I didn't want to drill any holes in it so I build a frame from the load bars.
We plan on some longer trips this summer possibly into Finland so having energy in when stationary will be a big plus over last summers travels.
These panels are around 200 USD currently with an huge discount on Eco flows web shop. Here in Sweden they are over 7000SEK which is ridiculous as expected but you can order them from Poland where you will only pay 3000SEK.
They have generated to date 191w which is impressive. Now that we are approaching summer here in the Nordics it will be daylight 24 hours so power in shouldn't be an issue.
Thanks for watching!
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Jeep Spec:
1999 Jeep Cherokee XJ 2.5TD RHD.
Summer Tire - 35x12.50r15 BFG KM3's with 15x8 3.75" backspacing (-19 offset).
Winter Tire - Cooper Discoverer ST MAXX Por Studded 35x12.50r15 BFG KM3's with 15x8 3.75" backspacing (-19 offset).
Lift Front - RC 4.5" Coils and N2 Shocks (3" Coil Spacer).
Front Shock Bar Pin Eliminator.
Dana 30 High Pinion with Artec Industries Lower Control Arm Mounts with modified upper mount and modified Track Bar mount.
Front RC Control Arm Drop Bracket.
Ruff Stuff Short Arm Single Himes.
RC Extended Sway Bar Links.
Dana 30 Rock Crusher Diff Cover.
Ruff Stuff One Ton OTK Steering.
6" Lift Drop Pitman Arm.
Ruff Stuff Front and Center Frame Stiffeners.
Rear DIY Frame Stiffener and Rear Frame Tie in Kit.
6" x 2" Box Rocker replacement with Tube Slider.
Modified Factory Bumper with Side Sliders.
Rear Tow Hitch Tire Carrier that bolts into Rear Frame Tie in Kit.
Modified upper Shock Crossmember for Rear Shocks
Rear Axle Chrysler 8.25 29 Spline with modified High Clearance Shock Mounts.
Rear Shocks 6.5" Trailmasters.
Rear Leaf Springs 5.5" Rubicon Express
Rear RC Shackle Relocation Bracket.
Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines front and back.
Warrior 9500lb Winch.
Front Bumper - Ebay Custom Made.

[@long-jeep]

great words of encouragement that I'm sure were appreciated

[@JackFalltrades]

I chuckled when you tried to take the tape off the spool only to find you were at the end. We've all been there! 😀

[@wodgesad]

My father has UC big props to you for putting yourself out there.

[@HEIPPI]

Having a long term illness can really be tough. I've had arthritis since i was 11 (34 now) and so far i've been lucky with it and can do most things and keep riding my bikes. I don't think arthritis is as bad as ulcerative colitis but I'm sure for both it helps to keep active and do things you love.

[@jacksomb1]

Big up, Ricky! keep fighting the fight... Sending positive thoughts buddy.

[@seanmacdonald8476]

Maybe could use the frame of an umbrella or something to sling the mosquito netting over for your new throne. Seems like it might pack down small could shove it just about anywhere. Guess this also explains the random baby wipe cameo from earlier in the vid =]. Glad to see you taking it where you can, thanks for bringing us along

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Thats not a bad idea with the umbrella. I will see what I can come up with. The mosquitos are relentless so to be honest having a place to go to the toilet is actually nice anyway. Max is potty training so he might appreciate it too. Thanks again mate

[@Brookspirit]

I was diagnosed with UC in 1996, i thought my life was going to be over because everything became so difficult. Flare-ups come and go, i haven't had one for quite a few years now. it may be tough now but things can get better. I found stress sets me off, i had to give up my job because of the stress and the UC calmed down a lot. It can be a battle but you mustn't let it stop you living. Make plans for being outside, carry a bag of things that you may need, and get a RADAR key.

[@lynneramsey3598]

Thanks for the chat about UC. My friend was diagnosed several years ago. It has totally changed her life but she doesn't try to manage it, just takes the drugs the DR's offer. I have IBS and use many non-medical management techniques to reduce symptoms. You can take control of your life back from the disease. You are an example of that. Have fun this summer and thanks for taking us along for the ride. Your truck is totally COOL! So jealous.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I think a lot or people just take the medication and eat anything. The food seems to have an impact on me so i have to think about meals more. Good that you are using natural methods to help yourself. Thanks for watching, the jeep has come along way, hopefully it will be a good summer ☀️

[@jcricket-vr5xr]

Hope you feel better Mike I have been watching your videos since the beginning of your KZbin channel

[@051biohaz]

Mike, thank you for the uploads…you are an inspiration..:)

[@theclarkofben84]

Sending you love Mike. Sounds like you've had a rough time.

[@mrsmith9079]

Hi Mike (and Ricky). Don't be afraid of going down the surgical route if you find the colitis utterly intolerable, it does make life much, much easier.

[@dlim1984]

Wholesome shout out. Thanks for making these videos, thoroughly enjoy your content. -a Toyota guy

[@crapgazm]

First Mike. Glad you didn't bugger off

[@darrendexter6125]

I have a similar solar setup planned for my 4Runner rooftop. I am looking forward to seeing how this new addition performs for you during your upcoming trips.

[@dalebarlow270]

Stay strong mate, you're a Inspiration

[@JackFalltrades]

All the best, Ricky 🙏

[@jrstar805]

Love this channel glad you gave us an update about this one with your old one.

[@hempseedaddict]

Food choices seem to get more and more important every year.

[@JackFalltrades]

Looks really good, Mike. 😊 Thanks for the video. 😊

[@JackFalltrades]

Yes! The solar panel video! 😊

[@JackFalltrades]

Good to see you again, Mike! 😊

[@classic.cherokee]

Stay strong Ricky!

[@Benson4A52]

Got me wanting to put panels on my truck now... Just watched your explanation on your old channel (a bit late, I know). I love the new stuff you're putting out and am very glad that you and your family are happy. Thanks so much for that update, it really helps to know why everything changed.

[@aaconhunter5372]

I can't believe that i listened to you talking about sh t, it must be love..... you are very inspiring, was thinking of all the diverse ways i can cover my rear end in the Australian bush. love your work.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Haha yeah that is literally what I'm talking about. Not the best subject matter! Thanks for watching mate 👍

[@BFett-ri8kt]

Mike you've built a great community, your a top bloke 100% Your chats about this kind of condition and other subjects you touch on, go along way in helping with people's wellbeing . My daughter has just had her diagnosis for chron's so were just getting to grips with it after battling for ages . Nice solar & rack set up , that's going to give you some good extension to your battery . capabilities.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Ah mate I'm sorry to hear about your daughter. I hope she's adapting to it all and not feeling too down trodden. Its a hard thing to be told I think. Its all about avoiding things that cause flare ups and inflammation for me. Oats, refined sugars, lots of dairy, undigestable fibers, really fatty meals seem to take there toll. I basically eat really basic foods and intermittently fast every day and I remain symptom free. Its takes time to learn about what work I guess. Bless her mate, hope she's all good. Yeah the solar is an absolute game changer. We can stay in one spot for a long time which is a big plus. Thanks for the comments mate 👍 appreciate it

[@JackFalltrades]

All the best to you, Mike 🙏 I just can't imagine living with something like that. I admire your positive attitude and the brave way you're handling it. 😊

[@BunkerDawes]

Good job. Love your attitude. Keep kicking!

[@ktrontrontron]

awesome work, The power banks generally do not charge at full power when they are closer to full, will be interesting to see how it goes with a discharged battery pack

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Seems to be fine so far. I charged the 720wh pack and the 250wh pack from 0 percent up to 100. It seems to work pretty efficiently so far. The weather has been ideal for it the last few days fortunately.

[@jasongeorgeson8551]

Stumbled across your channel a few weeks back, have been sporadically watching your show. I love it mate. I like the content and format. The jeep Cherokee xj is the vehicle I’d most want so I’m really engrossed in every mod you make, totally impressed with your fabrication skills. You are a good presenter and talk with wit and knowledge and all interesting things.thanks for sharing mate.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Appreciate the comment and feedback in general on the videos. Cool that your going for an XJ, they are great project vehicles to work on, very simple yet good looking and easy to modify. Thanks again for watching!

[@danield7300]

Respect, just saying.

[@JackFalltrades]

You blew up your turbo? 😳 Ouch! I would be a little less sanguine about it! 😀

[@jannepallari4697]

Waiting for a nice review. :) I think i have the same issues, it comes and goes and crappy food is worst for it. Eating often and in small portions seems to be best for me.

[@cherokee7824]

Отличная идея, давно думаю об этом

[@boboyamamoto]

You should have bought polycrystalline panels, they are much more efficient and give you better power output. From each of those monocrystalline panels you'll get 60-65% of those 100 watts while polycrystalline will give you between 90-95% output. And when there isn't much sun they still give you around 75% while mono goes down to around 45% output or less. I made the switch from mono to poly and it makes a huge difference. I'd be interested to know your feedback on those panels.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

They are not the best panels obviously but they seen to work very well. As I mentioned I got over 190w the other day and even when the clouds were over the sun it was over 50w. For the price there doing there job so I can't complain yet. Perhaps in the future I will upgrade like you but I will give these there time first. Thanks for the info 👍

[@mindaugasstankus5943]

Monocrystalline solar cells/panels are more efficient, high performance and better quality not poly. Poly easier to manufacture, cheaper but less efficient. Properly rated 100W panels should give similar power output on same conditions. Just poly solar panels will bit larger because it is made of less efficient cells.

[@cowboy6591]

Dude!! I can understand this. Years of diabetic meds have trashed my digestive system and keeps me from going out to visit friends or go on trips. I bought a van sized RV with full bath and kitchen just so I can visit friends a half hour down the road. You might benefit from a "Mini-RV" camper full bath. Erik on NBSJS channel, a sailor has Chrons and It doesn't stop him from sailing until he lands himself in the hospital.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Ah man I'm sorry to hear that, but glad you have found a way to live with it. I think that's all we can do right. I've bought a camp toilet with a mosquito net for the rough days. It's working well for the minute. Thanks for watching and the comment

[@TonyJaboney]

soy milk aint fit for any human. I admire the positivity

[@Davejansma]

Just found your channel (related to your solar panel set up). I understand your issues related to UC (which I have had since I was 13 years old and 53 now). This turned to Primary sclerosing cholangitis at age 28 which which required a liver transplant at age 36 (with secondary kidney transplant 10 years later). So yah it can suck in a big way. Do not feel sorry for me as I now live a very active life of mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and mountain climbing where I live in coastal British Columbia. UC is a horrible disease that can be very debilitating.... Diet and exercise has been for the most part my savior plus a toilet near by at times🙃🤪. I love your rig, we have a 2011 Nissan Xterra which we are kitting out to be our base camp and plan on a seven week adventure next summer List of overlanding products Aluminum wedge tent 180 bat wing awning Bluettie ac180 power Iceco vl 45 fridge Kenwood Navigation Garmin inreach Slight 2" lift built out back kitchen Only thing left is the solar on the tent. So thank you for this video and sharing your story. Keep rocking it Time to go hit the toilet🤪💩

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Ah mate that must have been extremely tough. How are you holding up these days? Sounds like your doing much better and keeping active. I hope I don't have complications waiting for me down the line but I guess I wont know until I get there. I intermittently fast every day and since then I have had no reoccurring symptoms but these things come and go and its hard to know why so I could just be going through a good spell. The up and coming trip sounds epic, plus the kit list looks solid too. Solar has been a game changer to be fair, I just have to park in the right direction to make the most of it. Thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@Davejansma]

I have an internal mantra that I say to myself that has helped a lot over the years. "Adversity is a gift that leads to equal or greater rewards" So yes life is good with my health along with it. I'd say I'm in better health than most of my peers as I am aware of it and proactive with regards to it. I try not to stress about it much anymore (maybe my age). Enjoy life and take it all in even the little things actually especially the little things. Glad I found your channel great viewing.

[@kenroach8080]

That’s going to be very tight in the garage.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

About 3 inches to the roof, tight but its a storage garage

[@magamaga297]

👍✌

[@JackFalltrades]

Hmm. I don't know how much weight I can put on the ones I bought. I never planned to put any weight on them

[@officialWWM]

I was wondering how you were going to get the car back in the shed with those panels on the roof 🤔

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Its the same clearance as before because the panels sit below the roof bar line. Fortunately lol

[@officialWWM]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness lol, it’s a tight fit! I want to lift mine another 2 inches but then I won’t fit in the garage 😂

[@JackFalltrades]

Extrusion

[@dlim1984]

Aluminum $h!t

[@surfinwaves4769]

Hi Mike, thanks again. I’ve been searching for the video where you first show and discuss this RTT and reasons why you changed from the previous one … but can’t find it. Can you please link that video. Thanks. Hi from Oz!

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I ended up removing that video because I felt that I hadn't owned it long enough to give an opinion. I am making another though really soon now that I have had a lot of use out of it. Thanks for watching

[@surfinwaves4769]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness thanks for responding. I see. Can you please tell me the RTT you had immediately before the Desert Cruiser? I was more focused on that and your thoughts on it, as a very similar looking RTT is currently on sale in Oz at 1/3 the Wildlands Desert Cruiser price.

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

@@surfinwaves4769 ah right, the wildland normandy auto. Good tent, nice materials and super fast setup. My only issue with it was it was a soft shell with a ugly cover. I decided I wanted to mount things up top so I went with a hard shell.

[@surfinwaves4769]

@@WorkshoptoWilderness that makes sense. Thanks. Love your work, thanks so much for sharing 😀👍

[@cenobitz]

Is it possible to mount a solar panel not screwed to the side of the beam, but without drilling on its top, i.e., in a T-row using T-nuts?

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Yeah, I would have thought so. The way I did it was pretty crude. It works, but it could be done much clearer.

[@verblakttab]

Have you looked into the ''Lion Diet''...?

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I've heard of it. We tried the no carbohydrates and just meat and select vegetables for some time coupled with fasting. The problem was how expensive it became. Good meat costs a fortune here. We would probably do it again if we bought an elk next season and try it again.

[@verblakttab]

@Workshop Wilderness Adventures i hear you...health is worth the expenses though... didnt you hunt yourself...?

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

Its expensive as in like 500kr for one stake. Its absolutely insane. Unless we lived on ground beef or pork but I don't really want to eat that every day. We grown vegetables and I also like to fish. Hunting isn't something I can do right now as I haven't completed the exam. That will probably take a while. Overall we just don't eat so many carbs and no bread or processed food. I've been symptom free for over a year until I drank soy for three weeks...

[@shaunmccaw2911]

Wouldn't be a Mike video if you didn't cut bits of and make holes in it just saying 👍🏻🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@NICEandEASY024]

Hey man how did you run your wiring from the panels into your battery bank?

[@WorkshoptoWilderness]

I used a 5 meter extension wire. www.elgiganten.se/product/hem-hushall-tradgard/belysning-elprodukter/elektrisk-utrustning/powerstation/ecoflow-kabel-mc4-till-xt60-solar-5m/389193 Something like this basically. Thanks for watching

[@rodhenderson8359]

You might want to look into a carnivore diet it's helped me with some health issues it might help you