[C320-list] Portable Solar Panel Connection

[Scott Thompson]

I have the same issue, but do not have the adapter in the engine pod.  I 
am interested in hearing more generally about solar options that people 
have used successfully to keep the batteries topped off.  Ideally I'd 
like something I could use at anchor, but keeping the batteries charged 
on the mooring (or over the winter) is the priority.  Anything that 
let's me hang on the anchor longer without starting an engine is bonus.

Mike Ott wrote:
> Hello all,
> Our boat is on a mooring, so gaining a few amps of electricity from the Sun would be a nice offset to running the engine for the first few hours on weekend cruises.  
> I would like to put a flexible solar panel on top of my Bimini and plug it into a cigarette lighter adapter on my engine instrument panel.  The adapter is for my search light and draws power from the engine harness wiring.  Would this system work ?  Would it create any problems with the engine harness wiring or the alternator to run power back through the harness to the batteries ?  would I have to leave the main battery selector swith on ? 
> I know this is not the best way to proceed but I'm just looking for a temporary fix for our short sailing season here in New England.
> Regards,
> Mike
> 'Amanda Lu'
> #508
>  

-- 
Scott Thompson
Surprise, #653