Recent content by rccapps

I think I've got a solution to my problem, and I'm posting this in case anyone else faces a similar issue with a similar level of ignorance about matters electrical to my own. To an extent, I went with the vaguely proposed 3rd option, but instead of an MC4 2:1 branch connector, I'm buying a...

Between 30-45 ft from panels to charge controller; the controller is closer to one side of the bank of panels than the other, hence the range. No plans to expand the system further; if we DID need more power, we'd probably just set up the old system (based around the Renogy charge controller)...

I'm upgrading our off-grid household power system, and I have a choice to make. Currently, the PV-only input is 8 x 375W panels. Each panel has a max amp rating of 9.43A and a max voltage just a hair under 40V. There are 4 serial strings (of 2 panels each) wired in parallel. The array feeds...

Another great thought, svetz. But we do have 8 x 375W PV panels rocker-mounted to the south side of the roof, shading approximately one-fifth to one-sixth of the entire roof (it's not a big house). We could always use more power, so we may expand the PV array in the near future.

Thanks for the feedback, svetz! You speculated about the attic covering (or not covering) the entire ceiling space. Even if there were a hatch/door I could use to get into the attic (there isn't), I'd barely be able to squeeze thru at a crawl - that's how small it is. But it does cover the...

My question isn't PV-related, so I apologize if this is the wrong forum to post it in. Our manufactured home has a small pseudo-attic space with four squat vents thru the roof and no access from the inside. Despite installation of reflective roof panels (as well as the aforementioned vents)...

Thanks to everybody for chiming in; you've given me some great ideas to try. I couldn't have asked for a better welcome to this forum. And to chrisski: if this works, I'll try to take good pictures of the generator build as it progresses, then post them in a separate thread. One other thing has...

Thanks for the quick reply! I've rounded out the socket so much with a slightly-too-small 7/16" key that the 3mm one won't "grab" the socket anymore. "In-line" was my amateurish way of saying the set screw penetrates the flywheel perpendicular to the shaft, and is radially (like a spoke)...

Hello all: I'm trying to remove the flywheel from the shaft of a scavenged treadmill motor (for use in a future DIY wind turbine). The joint appears to involve a key and keyway between shaft and flywheel, but reinforced by an in-line set screw with a hex socket. In hindsight, the socket must...