Hood (w/scoop) solar panel measurements

[Blue109]

This is bad ass!

 

[scratchhax]

Do they have an air gap under the panel? One of the things I've found with panels is that they really don't want to get hot (ironic huh) and being on the hood would probably compound that. A small air gap between the hood and panels though should keep it sorted.

 

[michalik.piotr6837]

No air gap. Could space it out but then run risk of it ripping off. Could insulate under hood. Others run similar panels with no issues tho.

 

[scratchhax]

Right on. depending on how they are built they may have a little gap internally. Great idea and props for putting in the work to give this a shot!

No air gap. Could space it out but then run risk of it ripping off. Could insulate under hood. Others run similar panels with no issues tho.

 

[randy88fj62]

Having looked at the cascadia panels and having a 4th gen sport edition I am kind of interested to know if the dimensions would fit a 4th gen. hmm.

 

[Room2Fly]

:whipping2

 

[Zal4R]

I am going to have to follow this. Do you need to use all three, or can you just use the 2 sides? I do not need crazy amounts of output, but a trickle would keep my plans up and running.

 

[Skykomish]

It sure on the connector yet but should be able to plug into most universal power banks. Average cost of a bi or tri fold amazon panel is b/t 120 to 170. So the 300 is not bad to have tailor fit to the hood.

Working on attacking.... most likely will go with plasti dip on the hood first to protect pain and have a uniform look then 3m spray adhesive and/or double stick tape.

If you're not planning on selling these yourself would you mind letting us know what manufacturer you're working with? If you are planning on selling them...

 

[michalik.piotr6837]

I’m doing this for myself and as a side effect to benefit the 4runner community not to get rich.

The company is Lensolar but these are not quite yet ready to sell. I’m waiting for some connectors from them, then I will install and test then they should be ready. I will post a promo code for discount as well.

Posting updates fast as I can.

 

[michalik.piotr6837]

Hoping to have the panels on this wknd. Prepping the hood.

 

[2021nightshade4x4]

Does anyone know some ballpark figure of what I could expect for output for a roof mounted solar panel, being roof width, and fits unobtrusively between the sunroof and allowing clearance for the rear hatch?


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[Skykomish]

Toyota 4Runner 4th & 5th Gen (2003-2021) with Scoop Lensun 60W(3pcs 20W) Hood Flexible Solar Panel

 

[Mudhorn]

Waiting to see how the wiring looks once fully installed.
Looks like the wiring will have to run at least 3 inches to the edge of the hood.
The FJ write up on the company’s site is well done. Need to dig on the FJ forum on user thoughts/experiences.

 

[Eldirector]

I want to see how the wiring terminates as well. I currently have a 100 watt panel on the front of my gobi, but it is super loud at highway speeds. I like the possibility of going this route but I am curious how the three pairs would come together and into my victron solar controller. May just take the plunge...road noise is so irritating especially if I'm trying to have a conversation.

 

[Mudhorn]

Hoping to have the panels on this wknd. Prepping the hood.

Up and running yet?

 

[SparkySparks83]

Almost $400 just for the panels, guess I'll stick to folding panels.

 

[michalik.piotr6837]

Sorry guys! I have everything sitting on my work bench but have been surfing and wheeling instead. Weather is just too nice, it’s also over 100 degrees in my shop. Will update shortly!

 

[Ascole]

Does anyone know some ballpark figure of what I could expect for output for a roof mounted solar panel, being roof width, and fits unobtrusively between the sunroof and allowing clearance for the rear hatch?


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Here’s the output of an old Renogy 100w panel I have hard mounted to my roof. Panel is dirty and probably covered in bird crap. You can see that yesterday I parked in the shade and didn’t move my car, hence no output from the solar panel.

Side note: I removed my controller from under the hood and put it in the rear wheel well cavity. Solar controllers are relatively sensitive to heat and will shut off when they get too hot. I ran into that issue a number of times; sucks when you don’t realize and your fridge shuts off because of low voltage.


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[cbaty08]

Almost $400 just for the panels, guess I'll stick to folding panels.

I picked up ROCKPALS SP003 100W foldable panels, and they work great.

While I have no doubt they can pull 100watts, I was in Pinecrest a few weekends ago and was getting 88watts down. $200 well spent, and it folds up to be very compact. (2.6" thick)

Amazon.com: ROCKPALS SP003 100W Foldable Solar Panel for Jackery Explorer/Flashfish/BALDR/Goal Zero Portable Power Station Generator and USB Devices, Portable Solar Panel Charger with 3 USB Ports

Just noticed the warehouse has them "used" (packaging will be damaged) for $175.. a deal!

 

[michalik.piotr6837]

You foldable guys are missing the point. Yes, foldable are cheaper and have more power but they take room to set up and are not always “on”.

This thread is not about foldable panels.

This thread is about hood mounted panels that you don’t have to take up room storing, set up and break down.