[Rhodes22-list] Solar Cell Replacement/Charger

[Alton Miller]

Thanks all for the great info.  I'll check the panels this weekend for
the output voltage with a multimeter.  I saw a charge controller at West
Marine that fits the description of the one below.  Can one charge
controller handle both GB solar panels (parallel ?) to both batteries or
do I need one charge controller per panel per battery?  Either way, $60
is not a bad deal to keep the batteries charged properly.

Thanks again for the great advice.
Al
Mishka 01

On Mon, 2011-10-31 at 15:41 -0400, Rick wrote:
> I second the need for a charge controller.  I found even a 3 watt charge at
> the high voltage produced by the solar panel mid summer kills the battery.
> 
> Just be sure when hooking the battery to the solar panel circuit that no
> charge is coming off the panel.  A seat cushion covering the panel assures
> the controller correctly calibrates when hooked up to the battery.
> 
> Rick
> 
> On Mon, Oct 31, 2011 at 10:34 AM, <R22RumRunner at aol.com> wrote:
> 
> > Al,
> > You definitely need a charge controller. I helped Capt. Keller install one
> > on his Rhodes. Prior to that he was going through batteries on a regular
> > basis.  Now with the controller they don't over charge or discharge when
> > it's
> > cloudy.  The cheapest one is around thirty bucks and will handle panels up
> > to 100 watts,  or 7 amps.
> > I would test the current solar cells to see if they are still functioning.
> > Newer cells might be more efficient if yours are really old. Size and
> > output are  all that matters. I'm sure Stan would be willing to help you
> > out, but
> > there are  other outlets. Solar panels for marine installations have
> > connections that are  built to withstand the marine environment.
> >
> > Rummy
> >
> >
> > In a message dated 10/29/2011 9:32:40 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
> > al_shell at tampabay.rr.com writes:
> >
> > Hello  All,
> >
> > Mishka, our 2001 Rhodes, has been on her trailer far too  long.
> > Fortunately, I have had the Rhodes list to keep me engaged!  I  am now
> > working on her project list and have a target date of late summer  next
> > year to be sailing again.
> >
> > I have many questions but  power and wiring are first on the list.
> >
> > The solar panels have been in  the weather since we bought her from Stan
> > and likely need to be  replaced.  I wonder if anyone can tell me what
> > make/wattage the solar  panels are that Stan provides as original
> > equipment. And where they can be  had.  Does GB sell them?  Cost?  Maybe
> > they don't need to be  replaced?
> >
> > Also, has anyone had experience with any solar cell  charger/controllers
> > on the market.  I understand that they keep a  battery better charged for
> > longer life.
> >
> > Thanks in  advance,
> >
> > Al
> > s/v Mishka  01
> >
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