.010822 Sailing Canoe Solar Charger (a) (i) r
Sailing Canoe Solar Charger
Category: Sailing canoe, canoe, cruiser, solar charger, trolling motor
Accessories
Problem: The overall concept of the canoe as a cruiser meant that I might be out away from a power source for an extended period of time. While I would have sail power and be able to paddle, it would really be nice to have a motor at the ready for emergencies or to make headway against wind or waves. I felt that keeping the battery charged was in imperative. This would be true whether there were one or two batteries in the canoe.
Action: I purchased a large solar panel that was used on boats or while camping that was about 3’ x 1’, maybe more. I initially supported it on an aluminum tube with some cross pieces and then a lever so it could be turned to be perpendicular to the rays of the sun. This was mounted on the outrigger as far out as I could, where it would provide weight. When I moved the outrigger arms to the center of the canoe, I could no longer rotate the solar panel and it was lashed in place on the arms. The output wire was run along one of the tubes and then forward to the battery.
Result: It worked great!
Additional Thoughts: I learned that it was important to make sure that the wires and where they connected were kept out of the lower portion of the front of the canoe, where water would connect when it rained and cause corrosion on the connections.
When idea was conceived:
How much time it took to develop: 4 hours
How much money it took to develop: $350.00
Current status: Sold the boat.
Since it was originally done:
Affiliate links:
