Goin’ Baja! DIY

[Smoky]

Thanks for the information. I’m considering doing the same with the X17Z.

[campin]

...I’m going solar and hope you can suggest ways to attach tilt kits to a TPO roof. The 2 panels face forward in landscape position and there’s a natural bow in the roof to work around. Thnx!

[Smoky]

Originally Posted by campin

...I’m going solar and hope you can suggest ways to attach tilt kits to a TPO roof. The 2 panels face forward in landscape position and there’s a natural bow in the roof to work around. Thnx!

I went with a ‘suitcase’ solar panel with a 50’ cord. I wanted to be able to keep my camper in the shade. There’s probably a YouTube video out there that demonstrates a roof mount like the one you desire.

[campin]

Great suggestion! I found a video on panels screwed to a TPO roof but not anchored to the trusses. Because a panel ways 43 lbs., tilt kit and windy conditions, probably attach the array to trusses (seal properly). ...hope it’s not a big deal.

The plan is a boondock setup to power everything (ac, micro) except the propane range and Buddy heater. It’s doable for a small trailer and sunny AZ skies. System size is 740 watts (max) and 2 lithium 100ah batteries (for now).

[campin]

...I decided on a 24V solar system w/step down converter and different panels.

Does anybody know of a solar parts warehouse in central, northern Arizona? Purchasing panels online is pricey after freight cost. Thnx

[campin]

I’ll post pics of solar hardware and installation. Today received the first of orders, an outback fm60 charge controller. ...it appears heavy duty.

[campin]

the roof layout is handy for installing panel tilt kits.

[campin]

High wattage panel options dim for my RV.
Apparently some manufacturers void their warranty if (residential) panels are installed on a mobile platform (other than a tracker).

But a warranty is important. ...as they say in football, Punt. lol

[campin]

Solar, another topic...I’ll post a new thread, Goin’ Solar! DIY

[erniegolen]

I have a Baja 174bh - One noticeable difference here is the absence of bump stops. you may want to limit travel so that you don't invert the springs. even with the stops my springs are flat after only 2 years

Originally Posted by campin

I installed the Baja kit, tomorrow the wheels.

[campin]

Originally Posted by erniegolen

I have a Baja 174bh - One noticeable difference here is the absence of bump stops. you may want to limit travel so that you don't invert the springs. even with the stops my springs are flat after only 2 years

I did notice the stock 3 leaf springs flat too. The new aftermarket 4 leaf springs for Baja appear robust but I’ll keep an eye on it. Thnx!

[campin]

Installed a 2 step to finish the Baja conversion.

[campin]

...not quite done with Baja conversion, the stock rear stabilizers are too short. I’ll replace them w/Bal 24028 24” scissor jacks.

[campin]

applied Jayco Baja decals ...last thing, install Bal 24” scissor jacks in the rear.

[campin]

The Bal scissor jacks are heavy duty, I’m thinking weld steel plates to the RV chassis for a solid mount.

[campin]

got the plates, next drill holes for the jack and weld.

[campin]

Bal scissor jacks installed to complete Baja conversion (welded 3/16” steel plates to the chassis for solid mount).

[Midnightmoon]

Looking great. Very nice work.

[Bob K]

Originally Posted by campin

applied Jayco Baja decals

Spill the beans! Where'd you get them??

[campin]

Originally Posted by Bob K

Spill the beans! Where'd you get them??

I ordered Jayco Baja decals from an RV dealer. Google how to apply, hinge method.