The initial run with the new solar power system has been a success!
To start the trip, I was faced with 25 mph headwind on the Interstate. Even with the headwind, gusts of wind, and semi’s passing and buffeting Shaneeda; the PV panels stayed firmly attached to the roof.
I found a nice spot at the Bluewater State Park where the array would not be shaded. The solar charging system performed flawlessly and I was never short of power.
After about a week, I moved to a boondocking site in Cibola National Forest south of Fort Wingate, NM. Here, there was some shading from trees. Once again, I was never short of power.
It is now very clear to me why a battery monitor is important. Without it, you have only a vague idea of what is happening. Additionally, a solar charge controller monitor (meter or panel) would also help to know exactly what the solar array is doing. So, both of these are on my list.
I am really happy!
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