Help with Solar

[Cmdrmike]

I have a 2020 Jayco Flight 24RBS that has a Solar Ready sticker and a solar panel hook up mounted on the tongue. I can not find any details of what is included from the factory, such as a charge controller or inverter, there are no solar panels installed.
I have 2 350 watt foldable solar panels already. Do I need a charge controller? If not, how many watts can the controller handle? I'm 71 years old and not very savvy on how these things work, any input would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[FloHauler]

Have you tried a search of the forum? IIRC, someone asked the same or very similar question a couple months ago.

 

[ClarkeNorman]

If your fold-able panels have clips to connect to the battery then you have a complete system including the solar charge controller. The charge controller is likely mounted to the back of one of your panels. You should find that and identify the make and model of it. You can then go to the manufacturers website and get a manual for its operation if you don't already have it. Most charge controllers need to be told what kind of battery they are charging. If you've got typical deep cycle batteries then they are likely Lead/Acid, just like most cars and trucks. Once your charge controller is properly configured for your battery type you should be good to go. Connect the clips to the battery and enjoy solar!

The Solar Ready sticker is just a sales pitch from Go Power for you to purchase their portable systems. They prewire a trailer with a connection to the battery and then provide a connector, typically the same place your Cable TV connector is located. If you purchase their system then you just plug the cables from the portable panels into their connector and you're all set to go.

Safe Travels!

 

[Russc25]

"Solar ready" could be as little as the presence of wires running through the walls (like mine). There's no solid standards or regulation about what the stickers mean. If it's an SAE plug, be carful and check the polarity. Calling Jayco to find out exactly how they built the camper is the second best way to find out what's installed after digging through it yourself.