diy solar

diy solar

12v setup and help

Tnthompson

New Member
Joined
Jun 23, 2021
Messages
6
Hello. Hoping someone can help. I’m setting out on a cross country tour, and along with all the other stuff I had to do to get that to happen, I decided it was a good idea to DIY my own batteries as well. ?‍♂️
Watching Will, it seemed easy with his videos and whatnot. I’m in over my head and can’t think clearly anymore. Electrical has never been a strong suit of mine.
I’m hoping to see if someone is willing to help me step-by-step, even if I have to pay. My girlfriend is super nervous about me making the 12v packs, and the time crunch and everything else now has me nervous to even put it together. I have 8, 3.2V 280aH cells and 2 overkill solar 4s120a BMS units. I just want to make two 12v packs, one for my RV to use when boondocking (we don’t have solar) and one pack to run my trolling motor on my boat.
Please, if someone with a lot more experience and confidence can help, I’d greatly appreciate it.
 
You could also check out my pictures thread for some ideas on layout...


I think it would be good to clamp them with plates for automotive use to help with shock and vibration. Heater pads may be good if you're looking to use them in cold temps. I also have the 2x Overkill 120a BMSs....

That thread covers both my 12v and 48v builds, but on the last page, there are more pictures of just the 12v pack which is more what you'd be after. The very last picture there is the most completed unit. I still haven't got around to installing the heater pad and thermostat for it yet.
 
Last edited:
Here’s how I put my pack together with rods and plywood on the ends for compression; I put it in tool box and installed inside trailer. Three multi day camping trips under out belt with the new set up; everything is tight and working well. Hope that helps.
 

Attachments

  • 04E0A10F-55DE-4DC0-B533-E02DE47F48B9.jpeg
    04E0A10F-55DE-4DC0-B533-E02DE47F48B9.jpeg
    225.2 KB · Views: 18
  • 7B317F10-3308-4D86-9673-65459FBEF63C.jpeg
    7B317F10-3308-4D86-9673-65459FBEF63C.jpeg
    187.9 KB · Views: 18
  • 4F344695-7CA3-4DDB-8901-92504A6FB912.jpeg
    4F344695-7CA3-4DDB-8901-92504A6FB912.jpeg
    173.6 KB · Views: 16
  • C14071D8-E918-4C2F-9DA8-C0D0321F3F91.jpeg
    C14071D8-E918-4C2F-9DA8-C0D0321F3F91.jpeg
    178.7 KB · Views: 17
You could also check out my pictures thread for some ideas on layout...


I think it would be good to clamp them with plates for automotive use to help with shock and vibration. Heater pads may be good if you're looking to use them in cold temps. I also have the 2x Overkill 120a BMSs....

That thread covers both my 12v and 48v builds, but on the last page, there are more pictures of just the 12v pack which is more what you'd be after. The very last picture there is the most completed unit. I still haven't got around to installing the heater pad and thermostat for it yet.
Thank you. I’ll check it out for sure. I’m just super short on time, and sometimes do better with someone teaching me directly
 
Here’s how I put my pack together with rods and plywood on the ends for compression; I put it in tool box and installed inside trailer. Three multi day camping trips under out belt with the new set up; everything is tight and working well. Hope that helps.
thank you. Love the battery box too! Just looking for step by step help, as I’m on a time crunch now
 
Back
Top