Solar Battery Tender

[tortoiseracing]

With the lack of driving during the pandemic, I thought it would be good to get a battery tender to keep the battery topped off. I don't have access to a wall outlet, so I can't use a plug-in tender. Therefore, I got a solar-powered one instead.

I'm trying to find a good way to connect to solar panel to the battery in such a way that I can keep the panel inside the car (protected from the elements, and it won't walk away). Any suggestions on how I can make this connection? I was hoping there was a hard-wired battery connection in the trunk, but I don't think that's the case.

The next option was to find a way through the firewall and run the cable through there into the cabin.

And, just to make sure I'm correct, I assume I can't use the cigarette adapter because it becomes unpowered once the vehicle turns off.

I'd like to avoid running the cable out from under the hood into the front door. Hoping for some education from the members of this forum who have seen and done a lot more than I have with the GX. Thanks!

 

[Acrad]

The biggest part of a solar array beyond the inverter is the solar panel battery voltage controller. This controls overcharging but also disconnect power when power in use drops below a certain voltage. I am by no means a solar expert but dabbled with it... I have a simple 1KW solar array in my back yard of primary residence. It tracks the sun with a linear actuator. Just a test proof of concept.

 

[tortoiseracing]

The solar charger I have includes the battery voltage controller to make sure the battery doesn't get overcharged. This is what I got:
Amazon product ASIN B07WY3ZMBH
Right now, I'm trying to figure out how to connect the solar charger to the battery while keeping the charger in the cabin of the vehicle (likely attached to the windshield).

My friend showed me these fuse taps that let you add an electrical connection through your fuse block. It retains the original fuse, and allows you to add one for the new connection. I can use the fuse block in the driver's footwell. It seems simple enough, and I don't have to make another hole through the firewall.
Amazon product ASIN B01BU59QA8

 

[r2m]

I just went with this from Harbor Freight:

100 Watt Amorphous Solar Panel Kit

Amazing deals on this 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[ducktapeguy]

I had my panel mounted on top of my roof rack with the wires running down the side of the windshield into the engine compartment. With the panel mounted inside the car I don't know how useful it's going to be unless you happen to park facing south in direct sunlight. Most panels are fine being left outside since they're expected to be used outdoors. The panels are flat enough that they're not very noticeable walking by so I've never worried about it being stolen.

There is a large rubber grommet on the firewall right near the brake pedal that you can fish some wires through. The other option is to jumper the cigarette lighter so it has a constant connection to the battery even with the ignition off. I'm not sure what else is running off that circuit so you have to make sure there's no hidden load that draining it faster than you're charging it.

I use the add-a-tap on the fuse box for other accessories, the only downside is you can't put the fuse cover back on. I believe there is a empty constant power circuit that you can plug into.

 

[Tex68w]

Fuse taps are quite common, I have been using them for years to fuse my switches when not using a switch panel like a Switch Pros. You do lose the ability to keep the fun box cover on but that's never been an issue.