Broadway EK TB LP

Hi folks. Just wondered if any owners have needed to upgrade from the 80w solar panel on their Broadway.

Fortunately, our used 2013 Broadway had the factory fitted 80 watt solar panel as confirmed by Mark Burdett of Autosleepers after providing him with the van's build number. Interestingly, at time of build, the brochure specification stated a 30 watt sp so was pleased with the extra power on the roof. We have considered adding an extra 60 watt to max 140 watt which is the maximum the Sargent solar controller can operate. From your enquiry it appears 80 watt isn't enough for your needs and other forum members will give recommendation and advice. Our experience has shown that 80 watt is not enough (especially to keep the starter battery charged) during the gloom of winter. It is well documented that the smart charge can draw more power than the panel can produce hence in our case two flat starter batteries. We've overcome the problem by switching off the PSU so all generated power from the sp serves the habitation battery. A small AA sp placed on the dashboard directed at the low winter sun  gives a triple charge  maintaining 12.4 volts. This is rather a simplistic summary of our understanding of van electrics, others will have more technical knowledge. Regards.

I think that Sargent controller can only take 10A , is 120W

See the very long and ongoing "Solar Panels" thread under "Coachbuilt Motorhomes".

inspiredron wrote:I think that Sargent controller can only take 10A , is 120W

Of course you are correct, my mistake. Furthermore I forgot to mention our van is in storage with no EHU hence battery saga. Regards.

12v x 10 amp controller =120w technically but not much chance you would get max amps from the panel