Solar for my 195RB

[Demann]

I have bought a solar kit for my 195RB. It's 300W in 3 panels, and came with a 40A MPPT controller. I have also decided to buy a battery monitor for it. Now, I am not sure where to put the shunt for the monitor. I know where it goes in line in the system (Batt neg - shunt - load), but the little pos. wire that came with the unit is only 3ft long. My batteries are out on the tongue. Has anyone else done this? Can I install the shunt on the outside of the trailer, or does it have to be inside? My understanding is that it cannot get wet? Thanks in advance.

[ttavasc]

I installed mine in a watertight electrical connection box fastened to the end of the battery box where the negative terminal is located. This placed it as close to the battery as possible without being inside the same box as the battery. I've attached a couple of pictures showing the shunt inside the box as well as with the cover on.

[ChiToones]

I have my shunt sitting on top of the batteries in the battery box on the tongue. Haven't had any issues. But, now I'm wondering if that's not a good idea. I'll be watching the responses to the OP to see where others put their shunt.

[ttavasc]

Originally Posted by ChiToones

I have my shunt sitting on top of the batteries in the battery box on the tongue. Haven't had any issues. But, now I'm wondering if that's not a good idea. I'll be watching the responses to the OP to see where others put their shunt.

If you have flooded lead acid batteries which is what I'm currently using then that is probably not the best place for it given the corrosive gases that come off those batteries.

[sciencenerd]

In the battery box is where I have my shunt. I have pictures attached. It's only been there for a year, so I don't know yet if the corrosion will make any difference. I have used ethernet (LAN) cable to extend the wires connected to the shunt to the front storage compartment. Since the current load on those wires is negligible, thin wires are okay.