Solar Panels Fixed to van body

[Undaunted]

Hi, I am new to the forum and in the process of building a campervan. I bought a Ford Transit 350 which came with roof rack. I looked through the forum but could not find the answer to my question.
My question is do I fix the solar panels to the roof rack or should I remove the roof rack and fix the solar panles to the van body.

Thank you

 

[Reallyretired]

People do either. Panels fitted to a roof rack will get more wind under them so need firmly fixing. It may be worthwhile if the panel still leaves a useable bit of roof rack but if it covers nearly all of it probably better to fix to the roof and flog the rack.

 

[Undaunted]

Thank you Reallyretired

 

[Hoovie]

By securing to a roofrack you avoid:
a ) relying on adhesive to secure panels to the roof - a pretty variable result as to how secure they are
b ) making holes in the roof if going for more secure mechanical fixings

I'd use the roofrack if it were available without any doubt. I used the existing rack on my Motorhome to secure the 3 panels I fitted.

 

[Undaunted]

Thank you Hoovie,

I have read in few places stating that they can be damaged as a result of wind when driving.
Did you had any issues with the panels secured on your motorhome.

Thank you very much.

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[Hoovie]

Thank you Hoovie,

I have read in few places stating that they can be damaged as a result of wind when driving.
Did you had any issues with the panels secured on your motorhome.

Thank you very much.

Nope. None at all.
Some say the extra resistance causes wind noise and increased fuel use. Whilst that might be a factor on a car I am sure, on a van with the aerodynamics of a brick wall I don't think the difference of adding a panel will make much difference.

 

[PeterCarole29]

I would fit to the roof rack unless i was going abroad and useing the tolls on the auto routes. thats only if it took me over the height for the next bracket of chargers

 

[Undaunted]

Thank you all for your input. I will fix the solar panels to the roof rack.

 

[Gromett]

The other advantage of the roof rack with the wind going underneath is it keeps them cooler and raises efficiency. So you lose MPG but gain watts.