TheSamba.com :: View topic - Q for folks with solar panels on their Westy

Tue Mar 09, 2010 4:44 pm

how much worse has the extra weight made raising the poptop?

do you think two 75W panels would be insane? one will run a fridge or vent fan with no net battery drain, but i want to run both of em at once. already have panels so cost is not a factor.

i assume the effect on your fuel mileage is insignificant?

thanks!

Tue Mar 09, 2010 4:54 pm

Suggestion: Since you already have the panels temporarily mount the panels and see how it feels when you raise the top.

Tue Mar 09, 2010 5:51 pm

payaso de la mar wrote:

i assume the effect on your fuel mileage is insignificant?

I would not make that assumption. Although I suppose it depends on your definition of "significant". For comparison, a roof rack on a small car generally drops mileage 5-10%.

Tue Mar 09, 2010 5:59 pm

indeed....even removable crossbars make a difference on our Subie. that's why i'm asking. OTOH, panel sticks up <2" and aerodynamics on a Westy are already....well, let's not go there. :roll:

general plan is to mount em way aft, both for aerodynamics and to put em closer to hinge for ease of raising. all input appreciated, though.

Tue Mar 09, 2010 6:25 pm

You could mount a wind deflector in front of the panels, which may not be a bad idea if something flies over the roof from the road. A thick piece of plexiglass mounted to brackets.