Can the Go Power! Solar Flex Eclipse Be Mounted On the Side of a Trailer?

Updated 04/11/2023 | Published 04/10/2023

Question:

Hi, I have a few questions on the Go Power SolarFlex Eclipse expansion kit The specifications of the 190W shows a width of 56 inch. However, I would like to install it side way on a Super Pacific X1 canopy top that has a maximum width of 55 1/2 inch. Would you please provide me with some additional information? 1 The distance between the center of the farthest holes along the length of the panel looks approximately ~54 to 55 inch since the length is 56 inch. Is it possible to get an more precise estimate? 2 Can the edges of the panel be trimmed 1/4 inch? 3 Can the orientation of electrical box on the panel be rotated? Thanks,

asked by: Chau H

Expert Reply:

So to answer a couple of your questions about the Go Power Solar Flex Eclipse Expansion Kit - 190 Watt Solar Panel # GP77MR:

With your Super Pacific X1 having a canopy top only being a 1/2" less wide than the solar panel you have nothing to worry about it'll work just the same, Go Power just insists that since you're mounting horizontally, that they be installed at a minimum 10° angle to reduce dirt accumulation and soiling.

Realistically, for the best sun-absorption you'd want to mount this to your trailer's roof as the side of your trailer is going to get significantly less sun than the top.

The orientation of the junction box which I'm assuming is what you're referring to can be changed, however you're still going to need to make sure that it is oriented in the uppermost position of the panel, never mounted in a depression, and away from any obstructions such as roof vents, AC units, etc.

As far as trimming goes, you are not going to be able to trim it since you'd be then damaging the solar panel.

expert reply by: Bryce D