90w Zamp panel install

[NC-Serenity]

I read most of the posts regarding VHB tape & Sikaflex to mount rigid panels.

Just to clarify experience is the VHB tape / Sikaflex will hold the Zamp factory type low profile Zamp mounting feet? Zamp and Airstream tech support of course don’t recommend the VHB method.

Despite several posts saying it will work — those feet just look awfully small in terms of surface area for the VHB tape.

Any advice on how to apply the caulk to the feet? Half of the feet (the raised ones with track nuts) appear to require install before mounting the panel... giving very little room to get a caulk tube under the installed panel?

[dznf0g]

Research the 3M site for VHB tape. There are a multitude of thicknesses and adhesion specs. Some are well over 100psi in capacity. The stuff typically found at big box stores are 15 to 25 psi load specs. Don't use that.

[Shiny16]

Call and talk with AM solar. The have feet that have more surface area. They can also be doubled and offered in various heights to accommodate the curve roof. They come with VHB already attached.
https://amsolar.com/

[Shiny16]

Additionally the Am solar mounts are tightened by hand with a wing nut. It makes it easy to remove for cleaning or maintenance. With limited roof space it’s a must on my 16. Maybe not as important on your trailer but a nice option.
Installation is easy with the wing nuts. Just install the mounts to the panel, place them where you like, remove the VHB backing and stick whole thing in place. Once it’s secure you can easily remove the panel from the mounts and caulk around the mounts.

[jimdelane]

If you are using wingnuts or any other nut to secure parts, consider using Purple low strength Loctite to secure it. Low strength is great to prevent vibration from loosening the nuts over time but the nut is still easy to remove.
Blue also works and red need heat to remove.

https://www.henkel-adhesives.com/us/...adlockers.html

[dumbclub]

Forgive me for hijacking this thread and for some shameless self promotion, but if anyone needs a Zamp 90 watt panel,I have an extra:

[URL="http://https://www.airforums.com/forums/f534/for-sale-zamp-90-watt-solar-panel-one-only-north-carolina-

[dznf0g]

Originally Posted by jimdelane

If you are using wingnuts or any other nut to secure parts, consider using Purple low strength Loctite to secure it. Low strength is great to prevent vibration from loosening the nuts over time but the nut is still easy to remove.
Blue also works and red need heat to remove.

https://www.henkel-adhesives.com/us/...adlockers.html

I use a stainless flat washer and a stainless lock washer on each "wingnut".

[jrwayne]

Hello, go to this site. Zamp distributor. They have the great curved feet for the airstream roof. Along with all the hardware.

https://www.specialized.net/solar/za...r-systems.html

I got my 90 watt scratch and dent panel at a great price and Southland RV installed for like $100 while some other warranty work was being performed.

[NC-Serenity]

Thanks everyone, think I will use VHB tape with a singe self tapping screw on each of the feet. Since the factory installed panels use the Zamp round roof mount kit, I will just use the same kit Zamp shipped with my 3rd 90w panel.

[trailerpup]

I used the Zamp "airstream feet" and VHB/221 for my dual slim 90 Obsideans. They have been mounted since Monday. But, now I need to remove everything and get the AM feet and stabilizers. Sucks, man. Also, I prepped with alcohol, so I'm totally screwed.

[Lag323]

I used this tape on my solar set up
3M 4950/WI055 Scotch 4950 VHB Tape: 1/2" x 15 ft, White

I also used the ZAMP 90 watt panel with the same feet they provided. I've had no issues with the installation. A later "sealed" it with Dicor self leveling lap seal.

I installed it over 2 years ago on a 22FB with a Victron controller.