Connected the vent fans today. I installed a hi-lo switch on one of the fans by running a resistor across a switch in series with the positive lead, but the 50 ohm resistor is too much; ran too slow (barely at all). When I get a chance I’ll place another 50 ohm resistor in parallel to bring it down to 25 ohms, which should do the trick.
Also picked up some lumber to extend the legs on the futon frame to make it high enough to store things underneath.
Tomorrow my plan is to install the awning storage tube on the rack. I made it from a 10’ section of 6" PVC with a cap glued at the front and a threaded plug at the rear. It should have enough room for the awning and 3 sections of awning frame. Will drill holes in the bottom and up 45 degrees for drainage/ventilation. When it gets too hot to work outside tomorrow I’ll make a trip to the electronics supplier for more convoluted tubing and wire harness hangers so I can finish wiring the lights.
I think you might want to double your battery bank capacity. Large banks are definitely the way to go, though you might want to wait till the electric is finished.
I don’t see myself using more than about 10 to 30 amps a day, which a 110 amp battery should easily handle. It’s for camping trips, not living in more than a few weeks at a time. If I start adding appliances, then I’ll add more solar and battery.
I thought of that. The sun would have to be down to about 20-25 degrees above the horizon for it to start to shade, and by that time the panel isn’t very effective anyway. The pictures make it look closer.
Almost finished with the electrical system. Connected the LED interior lights today. Left to do is install a grounding strap on the battery and install the inverter.
Should probably make up some window coverings too.
Once that’s done I’ll work on modifying my futon to work in the van and install a folding table/shelf connected to the wall. Then I'll change all the fluids and we'll take it on a weekend camping trip to test it out!
