How to remove OEM solar panel mounting brackets?

[marter]

Hello,

We have a 2008 19' International with a 50w factory solar panel on the roof. I'd like to remove that panel and brackets and add a couple 100w panels using VHB tape and Sikaflex.

My question is how to remove the existing factory mounted brackets. They appear to be bolted on and then covered with a white caulking compound, maybe just really old Sikaflex.

Has anyone removed these brackets? What was your process?

Thanks in advance,
Mike

[eganwh]

Mike,

I just removed my factory (I think, I am the second owner) solar panel mounting brackets from a '16 27 EB. I was shocked at what I found. Three out of the four brackets that attach one solar panel (installed with self tapping 1/4-inch screws) were (it appears to me) attached only to the skin of the roof missing the structural rib underneath. This was the case for the other one of the 2 panels as well. I plan on fabricating new brackets with a bigger footprint (from 3/8" 2.5 x 2.5 AL angle stock) and using VHB tape + Sikaflex 221 as well to re-attach.

To remove the factory brackets, I removed most of the caulk on the screw head, then simply backed out the screws on each bracket.

Have you done this yet? If so, I am curious what you may have found.

Couple pics of the bracket I have.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/no9rmuhxml..._0805.JPG?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ffr2jenol8..._0822.JPG?dl=0

[eganwh]

Try these instead of dropbox links.

[eganwh]

Try these instead of dropbox links.

[marter]

Egan,

Thanks for the response. No I haven't tried removal yet. I'm surprised it was so easy for you to remove the brackets. Kinda scary, surprised they're not flying off at speed. Interesting.

Thanks again,
Mike

[eganwh]

Do your brackets look like the posted pic? Just wondering if this was a factory install on my EB. If so, really disappointing.

[marter]

Originally Posted by eganwh

Do your brackets look like the posted pic? Just wondering if this was a factory install on my EB. If so, really disappointing.

Sure looks like the same bracket. I'll be removing mine soon, and I'll let you know what I find.


Thanks,
Mike

[eganwh]

Thanks for the pics. Yep, look the same.

[eganwh]

Finished fabricating and installing one set of panel brackets. Used 3/16" 2x2 Al angle cut to 3" lengths. Brackets mounted with 3M VHB tape and sealed with Alpha 1021.

[daleyocum]

If what you have on your roof is Silkaflex, alcohol works as a solvent. If the roof is painted be careful as strong denatured alcohol will also soften the paint.