The bolt, washer and the T-nut are all stainless. Since corrosion is localized at the contact point, the larger anodic surface area (anodized aluminum) as compared to the smaller cathodic surface area (ss washer and T-nut) will create a passive coexistence. Since the ss bolt threads are embedded in a like metal, ss T-nut, I don't anticipate any seizing.
@explorenaked
3 жыл бұрын
What a timely video. I am currently designing my 80/20 roof rack for our van. I was concerned about the nuts and bolts but figured 80/20 used stainless. Guess not. Thanks George.
@as6709
3 жыл бұрын
👍🏻🤓
@allenturin8847
3 жыл бұрын
George. Steel hardware = Loctite. SS hardware = Never Seize I like your rack but the profile bothers me a bit. Captures and holds water and solids. As an example,when hanging steel it was always toe down.
@jcbrown59
3 жыл бұрын
You’re Going to Get Dissimilar Metal Corrosion Between the Stainless Steel and Aluminum.
@moneypitvan6378
3 жыл бұрын
@@allenturin8847 Never knew about stainless seizing until working on a van. Crazy stuff. Still haven't figured out exactly which conditions cause it.
@Greybeardmedic
3 жыл бұрын
You should just put bleachers in the shop and let people buy tickets. No need to spend time with them, just put out a schedule and if you build it, they will come.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
😀
@shanec.7105
Жыл бұрын
where do you buy the 8020 and hardware?
@HumbleRoad
Жыл бұрын
8020.net
@shanec.7105
Жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad thanks
@lesleywall4186
3 жыл бұрын
One builds, makes mistakes, undoes the work and corrects the mistakes. It's called life-long learning. Doesn't happen to those who no longer do stuff. Their learning curve flattens and life becomes dreary. Waiting for videos on the small van, Mr Humble Road !!!! My expectations are SO high.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Mini Me production will accelerate once I finish Sam's van.
@donjones3355
3 жыл бұрын
Oh no. I have to change my hardware on my 8020 roof rack to stainless. Thanks for the tip. Enjoyed your video as always. Thanks George!
@moneypitvan6378
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah, seems counterintuitive that 80/20 would sell you this amazing weather-proof aluminum, and then throw in bolts that will rust out quickly. I guess 80/20 was traditionally always mostly for indoor use? Fortunately I discovered this issue on bolts under the van right before I started working on my roof rack. No huge disasters.
@LatmaTVulpanstudent
3 жыл бұрын
Make sure whoever finds your crumbled, unconscious body on the floor under whatever you were hoisting up the ladder, uploads the video so we can all yell, "FOR G.D'S SAKE, GEORGE!!" lol BTW, how does 80/20 rust? Isn't 80/20 aluminum? My aluminum Grumman canoe has been sitting outside since I bought it in 2000. ???
@stevennijweide5326
Жыл бұрын
So, will changing to stainless help? Ever heard of galvanic corrosion? Two metals in contact will corrode: the highest on the galvanic scale will be fine but at the expense of the lower one. Originally the normal steel hardware was corroded away by the aluminium. By using stainless you will now corrode away your 80/20. Take it from a guy that has owned several aluminium landrovers…..
@FlexDRG
3 жыл бұрын
I've always been against using regular steel hardware in outside/wet conditions. Even zinc or galvanized or other 'anti rust' just doesn't stand up to the rigor. Use stainless A4 or AT grade or go for titanium hardware. BTW I hope you also used stainless nuts and washers, not just bolts.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
All stainless.
@gregboyd4321
3 ай бұрын
Have you done your stacked (multi layered) solar system as of yet? Carpe diem and thanks
@OrganicHealer
3 жыл бұрын
It was divine intervention. AMEN 🙏
@1monagale
3 жыл бұрын
Everything happens for a reason 😊 If a pro can learn something new, and redo it, it’s an inspiration when it happens to us. All part of the customizing process. Great well built rack set up. Bravo!
@davyfoncier7469
7 ай бұрын
Hello, just a Little question. What’s size aluminium profile ? 30 x 30 ? Thanks so much for all. Very good job !!! From New-Caledonia
@HumbleRoad
7 ай бұрын
10series
@susanscovill6817
3 жыл бұрын
This was an important vlog for me today George. I had decided on 8020 for my roof rack. I real wanted the Rhino roof rack system but it’s so expensive. Message to self; Stainless bolts, washers and T-nuts for roof rack. Cheers from Canader eh!
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Glad I could help
@SCWeaverProductions
3 жыл бұрын
I had the same 3 month rusting issue on a roof rack I built on our sprinter as well from the 80/20 hardware. Had to replace it all and it was a headache! Good catch early on!
@michaeltonkin9004
3 жыл бұрын
Very tidy 👏🏻 I made my Ducato rack from 8020 but used the black 8020 and with black solar panels and a black Fiamma awning same model. It looks great and people don’t notice it especially at night while stealth camping in the city
@bentnickel7487
3 жыл бұрын
Every time the wife gets frisky, in the back of my head I'm thinking "let weight be your co-pilot". Just never say it out loud. I'm 72 y/o, I'm doing fine, thank you.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
😆
@thejackofalltravels8267
3 жыл бұрын
Now I am concerned about stainless fasteners their shear strength is crap.15 yrs ago stainless was all the rage in the building/construction industry. They strip they snap they are not structural. A better solution will be AQC through galvanized ceramic coated fasteners. Just ordered my 80/20 catalog starting a build this fall. Nice roof rack Sir.
@T8RTU
3 жыл бұрын
See my response @robertwayne
@samanthapowell5882
3 жыл бұрын
Make it where a second layer of panels can slide out and can be used as shade as well as more power!
@ecoworrier
2 жыл бұрын
Samantha. I had the same idea. Lower panels which slide out like an awning and can be angled up and down for the best sun angle. Maybe with an adjustable leg. Then a top layer which can tilt up with a motor. 2KW panels - easy.
@samanthapowell5882
2 жыл бұрын
@@ecoworrier yep
@BartBourg
3 жыл бұрын
So jealous of Defining Adventure. I met Eric & Jen through another couple and their youtube channel. Nice people. Look forward to running into them on the road one day in our vans. Also, great vid here. i have to make a custom roof rack for my van and was wanting to use 80/20, but wasn't quite sure the process. This vid helped a lot. Unfortunately, I've still got to make supports inside the van along the ceiling for the rack because it'll be a fiberglass roof I'm working with.
@johnhaines564
2 жыл бұрын
Your attention to detail is amazing! I Love watching your videos.
@dl1st
3 жыл бұрын
Hope that your stainless steel parts are AISI 316 otherwise with AISI 304 you get contact corrosion between stainless steel and aluminum.
@ourkaravan
3 жыл бұрын
When I'm not working with 80/20 I know I can stop by your channel and get my fill. Thanks George.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Any time!
@FranzKrachtus
3 жыл бұрын
Hey George, thanks for the shoutout! I’m one of your guardian angels (although we are a team of seven, not four). We had a team meeting about that roof rack a couple of days before. At first, we thought it might be a good life lesson to let you fail on that one but then we all decided that it wouldn’t just affect you but all those KZitem followers, who will make the same mistake. Anyway, keep up the good work George. Try not to keep us so busy-we can only do so much and would love to get a day off once in a while. Oh, sorry making you stub your toe the other day. That was a little guardian angel humor. We all had a good laugh up here!
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
😊❤️
@libertybell144
Жыл бұрын
Have you ever mounted a 4-way camera system to an 8020 roof rack? I can't find any resources for mounting them.
@HumbleRoad
Жыл бұрын
I would make my own brackets.
@grantholliday6057
11 ай бұрын
Hey, i saw the work bench behind the one you were working on is sitting on top of what looks like legs that fills away like a beach chair. What brand are those legs?
@HumbleRoad
11 ай бұрын
Those are KREG tables
@onlyinamerica0073
2 жыл бұрын
hi where can i buy those unaka the black you show thanks
@cigarmann
3 жыл бұрын
I would add a layer of Lanocote paste between the SS bolt and aluminum brackets. If they drive during winter or in seaside areas salt will get up there.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
This van will live primarily in the deserts of the southwest. And with the "annual tighten up", any degradation can be addressed.
@cigarmann
3 жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad cheers! I should have known you know what you are doing!
@GreganDunn
3 жыл бұрын
Use the solar panels as an extending/tilking awning... Slide them off the roof, tilt down, boom. No need for an awning.
@missingegg
3 жыл бұрын
And then get fancy and have the tilt be via a computer controlled acme screw that can follow the sun when you're trying to maximize power generation. :-)
@TheJimmymetra
2 жыл бұрын
Got links where you purchased your 8020s and the L brackets that hold it to the van?
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
Direct from 8020
@TheBrewjo
3 жыл бұрын
This is also why Washing machines don't last like they used to- 'they' connect two or three different metals together between the drum, spindle arms and bolts. So even if the rest of the machine lasts, one day it'll just snap between those critical structures from corrosion and boom! Another $400+ sale. Galvanic corrosion is a bitch!
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
All that water doesn't help!
@Duskepuden
3 жыл бұрын
I see you managed to set up a bit of a scaffolding. Here is not me saying you are old, but with age, we all struggle with easily getting up and down such straight scaffoldings. Wouldn't it make sense to build one that fit the whole length of the biggest car and have it standing in one area, so whenever you need to work on the roof, you park the van next to that scaffolding? Another thing, when working in heights, consider your safety and maybe connect a stair to the scaffolding, so you don't have to climb up the ladder. It will also make it easier on you to bring things up and down. 🙂
@TheErraticTheory
3 жыл бұрын
I did an 80/20 roof deck with manual moving solar panels so I could use the deck. I used 12ft lengths of 40 x 120 on the sides and 40x80 across with decking all bolted with stainless
@treynewsom1817
3 жыл бұрын
would like to see some pics of that
@robertiannone2765
Жыл бұрын
I have a question, setting up my first can build. Do you use the 80/20 10x10 or 15x15? Is 10x10 ok for interior/exterior, or is it to small for anything? TIA
@rogerjobin3807
Жыл бұрын
Did you use Locktite on your bolt threads, or would it be better to use lock washer?
@HumbleRoad
Жыл бұрын
I use Locktite blue
@mrsmith324
3 жыл бұрын
PS. with the solar panels covering the whole roof and even shades it to keep the heat off.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Yes!
@patrickmaloney6757
3 жыл бұрын
George. Who says you can’t work alone? As you grow your passion, knowledge, and business, I see a hoist in your future. You’re always thinking and I envision a few hoists in your future. 😀
@JG-kv4oi
3 жыл бұрын
I agree. I use a 4 post hoist to get under and a small forklift with a long flat platform to get out over and work on the entire roof.
@stuartkorte1642
3 жыл бұрын
I was thinking the same. A jib crane close to the door will be very useful for unloading stock and placing panels on roofs.
@ginnythomas418
3 жыл бұрын
This was a very informative video, thanks! I noticed that the AC unit is installed in the front and the Maxxair Fan in the rear on the roof. We are doing our own build, and are discussing the pros and cons of the placement of both units. Do you have a preference?
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
There are two Max Air fans in this build. The AC is as far away from the bed as the chassis would allow. The owner does not want the AC noise too close to him while he sleeps.
@Michael_Robinson
3 жыл бұрын
I think anyone who has watched George for a while probably has the impression that he’s a solid, ethical guy. Well, here’s a perfect example of that. @3:00 he says, “If I’d said ’no’ to them ... I’d have never learned about those rusty bolts and I would have had an issue here.” He didn’t say that his customer would have an issue long after the van was delivered - *HE* would have an issue. That’s a trustworthy custom van builder. If I was in the market for a custom van and I lived in the US, I’d be on Humble Road’s waiting list. Great work, George!
@rastlach
3 жыл бұрын
I didn't think you were meant to use Stainless Steel with aluminium?
@robertwayne3567
3 жыл бұрын
Yep! its called Galvanic Corrosion. Maybe this doesn't apply to 80/20?
@T8RTU
3 жыл бұрын
@@robertwayne3567 had a critical issue in a teardrop camper build I did 12 years ago… huge problem even beginning to separate screws, bolts and plates due to corrosion. The covered teardrop hinge I used on the kitchen reacted badly with the fasteners and sheared, didn’t notice till too late.
@acme511
2 жыл бұрын
I have the same rolling scaffolding. But I used heavy ratchet straps crossed in X pattern to stiffen really makes a difference in stable feel.
@user9b2
2 жыл бұрын
But you should not work alone, it is not safe and it is not efficient.
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
I don’t work alone
@definingadventure
3 жыл бұрын
Sweet, we got a shoutout (This is Eric and Jen)! Glad we could help. I’m going to switch ours out too! It was serendipity that we were allowed to visit. It was mutually beneficial.
@DavidNottingham1966
3 жыл бұрын
George - thanks for this video - curious question - what solar panels are you using in this build?
@outthere9370
5 ай бұрын
I think it's a very good idea to use s/s fasteners on "any" outdoor assembly combined with Lanocote. This product is made with lanolin. That's the grease from sheeps wool. Excel. anti-corrosion, anti-seize, lubricant etc. Totally natural product that works! Especially, if you live near the sea. Comes in a spray can or as a pottle of grease.
@lynnekerr3890
3 жыл бұрын
Nice video, roof racks have always seemed a bit confusing…good morning all!
@RustyCas999
2 жыл бұрын
Kinda painful to watch him putting that panel up there by himself - straining, dragging the cables across that bar. We need to get help on something like this - and taller ladders.
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
I appreciate your concern. It’s very compassionate of you. I have always preferred to work alone, so I am always working smart, rather than hard. But I never said it would look pretty! So far, I’ve gone uninjured and without catastrophe! Although, I have my second full-time contractor starting beginning of November. Help is on the way! 👍
@RustyCas999
Жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad I’ve always worked alone as well, but I’m paying a price for that now (I’m 65), and at our age we don’t “bounce” quite as high or fast as we used to. As an engineer I appreciate your attention to detail and quality. I’ve learned a lot from your videos. Stay safe!
@photog1529
Жыл бұрын
If you're particular about black fasteners, McMaster-Carr carries a series of 18-8 pan head stainless steel bolts that are coated with black oxide. You can easily find 1/4-20 or 5/16-18 that will work on 80/20 hardware, either Philips or hex drive.
@barrysoutthere
3 жыл бұрын
I used stainless as well (M8) on my Transit.
@maitildamcintyre9344
3 жыл бұрын
Always learning, modifying, and improving. The Humble Road mantra. ♥️
@gigilaroux762
2 жыл бұрын
Could those bars hold a rooftop tent and 2 people?
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
I’d have to test that…
@davidthompson9359
Жыл бұрын
Great job, thanks for the video. I wanted to get more into 80/20 and I look at it as an adult Tinker Toy. Since you've built this Solar Energy kit for a vehicle roof have you made one for a hybrid car to recharge the battery? I charge my car when I get home as I have solar on our roof and it will get me to work. What I was thinking of doing is designing a detachable solar kit that I could attach to the roof when I get to work and remove it when I get home.. This will allow me to charge my car while I'm at work. Has anyone done this?
@jameslamb7300
2 жыл бұрын
George, I suggest bolting your solar panels to your 80/20 rails, then mount the rails to your roof rack using connections tall enough to go over your AC and Roof Vent. One flat Solar Array of eight or more 2' panels depending on van length. Make the Solar Panels the highest point on the van, no shade from other components disrupts the panels, and it provides shade to the roof. Mine works perfectly! I can do 80 mph and the solar panels are stable. Elevate the Solar array to accommodate the maximum amount of panels. You mentioned in a previous video you want more panels. It works!
@curtjohnson8309
2 жыл бұрын
does wind lead to excessive noise? just curious?
@jameslamb7300
2 жыл бұрын
@@curtjohnson8309 I bolted four 100 Watt Renogy Solar Panels to Super Strut's ( Available at Home Depot and Lowe's ). I bolted the Super Strut's to the Roof Rack. No noise, and it provides shade to the roof.
@jasondubrow435
2 жыл бұрын
What size of 8020 did you use? 1", 1.5", or another size?
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
Both
@jasondubrow435
2 жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad I assume then it's based on location? Could you describe where you use each? Trying to design a rack for my van.
@felix.leiter
2 жыл бұрын
Would be nice without bridgeplates. Here in Germany we can order lengths until 6m of 8020.
@jerseyshorefabricators7431
3 жыл бұрын
As stated before, ALWAYS use stainless on anything outside. Nuts and washers to. Ideally, lockouts with never seize on the threads. Blind holes should get a drop of blue loctite.
@anthonyg9787
3 жыл бұрын
well I did a 8020 rack with my nea320w solar... fit 2x and 2 sets on my roof.... now like you show... one person to lift is easy with those smaller ones... but omg bigger ones are harder.... omg thanks for the video.... shows that My system will work well....:) on my 03 workhorse... just got my batterys in too... :) thanks for the great video.... would love to sit and talk shop some day.... but can't wait to see what comes next... :)
@vdub1959
3 жыл бұрын
Yep, already seeing light surface rust on my t-nuts on top of my transit. I can reach them pretty easily and since they were a BEAR to install, I think I'll wait on replacing them. One huge pain in the rear is that as you slide a t-nut with a bolt installed along the 80/20 channel, they want to spin counterclockwise and UNSCREW themselves mid-roof...UGH! Huge pain to keep them from 'running' out and landing on the roof under the solar panels. That's why I'm waiting for a bit...good times.
@londonjacks8371
3 жыл бұрын
I always use stainless steel nuts, bolts, screws etc where ever possible inside and outside, stops any future potential rust problems.
@Dulsanaya
3 жыл бұрын
As my mama says, listen to that little voice. I was watching another KZitemr last week who had the same rust issues on their rack for the very same reason. Glad you can catch it before the van goes out the door.
@stephenbrickwood1602
3 жыл бұрын
Working alone, I know how you feel, I am building my own home alone, a long story.
@NK-dl2nc
2 жыл бұрын
I get the rusty fastener thing is horrible. Those 80 20 parts seem to be just blackened which has no durability as you have found. Stainless looks pretty but you then create the issue of galvanic corrosion which weakens and eats the aluminium. This could effect the structural integrity of the frame. Imagine that frame failing at 70mph! It may be fine if the van lives in the desert. Add moisture, salt air, dirt etc and you have created an electrolyte which will get to work on you lovely aluminium. You may not see the damage it had done from the outside, but between sections and brackets that are clamped together and out of sight you may have a point of failure when you are bowling down the road at 70mph with the wind buffeting around the panels. Stick to quality coated fasteners and brush anti corrosion wax or similar on them. You don't need much and just clean and reapply every year or so. Speaking from experience having had issues on fire trucks and motorcycles where people fit stainless bolts then ride through winter salt thinking it's all good😂
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
Part of the annual tighten up is to check for corrosion everywhere.
@R693SLL
Жыл бұрын
Hi, great job. You have inspired me to make my own. Can you confirm the size of 80/20 you used. I will also be attaching an awning. Thanks.
@HumbleRoad
Жыл бұрын
Are use both 10 series and 15 series depending on load
@michaelodonoghue7464
3 жыл бұрын
A Hand Rail along Two Side (1 Long, 1 Short) of the Top of that Scaffold might be a good idea?
@extectic
3 жыл бұрын
Even the tiniest bit of shade that falls over just a tiny part of one panel will dramatically cut energy production. A single leaf can destroy the output, and a railing that might shade the panels would be a poor idea based on that alone. Even that air conditioning housing kind of dictates that the van needs to be parked side-on to the sun so it doesn't shade the panels.
@michaelodonoghue7464
3 жыл бұрын
@@extectic My Comment is reference the Scaffold erected alongside the Van being used during Construction and has nothing to do with Solar Array.
@leonardcroft1467
3 жыл бұрын
Hi George Enjoyed your Rack Build Video !! Thanks !!
@la3819
2 жыл бұрын
Thank You, great save to switch out bolts, im keeping on list
@GoatZilla
3 жыл бұрын
lol right when the first shots started I literally thought, "what kind of bolts is he using on those rails?"
@yogi2102
2 жыл бұрын
Very inspiring one day i might build ONE
@pretread
3 жыл бұрын
George..I have been following you for past 2 years... great work...and u r an inspiration...but bro..I can feel u getting old ...so please add someone to help you out...take care
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you Jan. I think...
@kevinmcauliffe2831
2 жыл бұрын
Hi, is that a 6' scaffold? I'm doing a similar project but with strut channel stuff instead of 8020, but the position you get on your scaffold looks perfect for what I want to do.
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
Yes- Home Depot
@julielee9298
2 жыл бұрын
I just got my shipment of 8020 for my Ford Transit a couple of days ago and haven't pinned down a good, flat roof to rack mount so I can attach an awning. The one you used looked nice; will you share where you got those?
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
These racks are custom built in my shop.
@mygreenvan3004
3 жыл бұрын
I've watched this 3 times and I still am not sure. Are the panels affixed only on the shorter sides, with bolts to the cross bars, or are they also affixed on the long outer edges? I saw you mention the angle and the drilling on the sides, but i cant see where the long edge is affixed on this rack? I am making a rack and my panels are wider than the track. Wondering if I can just affix the short sides of the panels and maybe a beam down the middle. Thank you! My mom and I are the biggest fans!
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
All panels have a 1.25 aluminum angle along each long side. The angle is then bolted to the 8020 crossmembers on the roof.
@Alecnesss
3 жыл бұрын
Anybody have any good tips on roof brackets for Ford transit that accommodate the 3% pitch of the roof where mounting plate sits? I want to build my own rack but the roof mount cleats are the hardest thing. Thanks in advance (hopefully;)
@vdub1959
3 жыл бұрын
Not sure if this comment will get removed again, but the folks at Flatline Van Co may sell a roof bracket. They have a complete roof rack system, and their quality is top notch, not sure if they just sell components, never hurts to ask!
@JamesandKeli
7 ай бұрын
Where did you get the roof mounting brackets? We are installing an 8020 roof rack as well
@HumbleRoad
7 ай бұрын
Unaka
@briankopper6906
2 жыл бұрын
It would be so nice if you would include links to the individual products you recommend on the various stages. Thank you...
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
Brian, my livelihood is building vans. I have spent countless hours researching the products and materials I use. The information I provide in my videos is quite generous, but beyond that, I still need to make a living, can't give away the farm! I hope you understand.
@joshtonry4291
3 жыл бұрын
Could mount a solar water tank on the other side. Cool build!
@ovmn
3 жыл бұрын
I am always so impressed with he quality of your builds.
@BabyDrePhotography
3 жыл бұрын
Every piece of stainless steel I have ever purchased has rusted (stainless steel has an iron component). Hopefully your hardware is much better quality than mine and won't rust.
@missingegg
3 жыл бұрын
If you have demanding applications, it's certainly worth researching which specific SS alloy to get, as there are non-trivial differences between them. One job I worked on actually required SS bolts with a specific alloy, and we couldn't find a supplier. So we paid an eye popping price to have a machine shop make them for us.
@scotschuler9365
3 жыл бұрын
Have a great labor day and put your feet up!!👍👍
@chrisjenkins9978
2 жыл бұрын
Boy, that was some masterful ladder-climbing technique. 😂🤣😂
@HumbleRoad
2 жыл бұрын
🤣
@DANIEL-ls5ku
3 жыл бұрын
3:40 Yep! Just whistle it in place, love it!
@mrsmith324
3 жыл бұрын
OK you are getting closer for what I’ve been trying to tell people for 10 years now. Take that solar rack go up even higher covering the top of the air conditioner, turn the panels longways and hinge on one side and put an air dam on the front to keep air from lifting panels up. The hinge is so you can get up on the roof and do maintenance you can even put hydraulic struts on it to hold him up out of the way. I hope somebody can use it someday. Because you can get solar the whole length of your roof.Or you can combined it like I seen that one van to where they slide out from underneath each other also.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Agreed
@uramalakia
3 жыл бұрын
Holy moly, that's a clean looking rooftop. Is it feasible to mount different sized (smaller?) solar panels in-between?
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
There is only a slight bit of room left for a smaller panel. However, while it has been done, I don't like to mix panels.
@timdunmyer4549
2 жыл бұрын
Have you ever given any thought to designing a solar panel slide-out system? Stack them on top of each other while traveling but when parked you could slide them out from each other. Save room and give you twice as much charging power. Instead of 400 watt, you could have 800 in the same area when stored.
@timdunmyer4549
2 жыл бұрын
You could use stainless steel drawer glides for corrosion resistance to pull-out and slide-in and locking system for when out or in.
@timdunmyer4549
2 жыл бұрын
As an added feature they could serve double duty as a shade and rain block when located over the slider door. Just food for thought. Haven't seen anyone else do this.
@ArtyVanHoming
3 жыл бұрын
always something of interest to think about
@CM9999999999
3 жыл бұрын
I’m interested to understand why the panels and awning are mounted so high above the roof and not much lower and closer?
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
The air gap under the panels will keep the roof cooler. All the Land Rovers and Land Cruisers in Africa have a double roof for that very reason.
@mentalneil
3 жыл бұрын
I love how universal the 8020 system is
@dannyross
3 жыл бұрын
I had the same thing happen to my 80/20 bolts... a few of them rusted in a matter of months. It wasn't all of them though which I found odd. Maybe the coating had a defect on some? I was just trying to figure out what size/length SS to get. which size did you use?
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
5/16-18
@dannyross
3 жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad thanks!
@arcenciel2968
3 жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad Damn it, all in inches..pitty only americans understand that shit...
@marinefoxalpha4499
3 жыл бұрын
@@arcenciel2968 some Americans need to use both imperial and metric, I have to take m to feet and Kg the pounds all the time. You still have some places drive on the left and others drive on the right. You have miles per hour in the same place with Kg. We just learn to live with each other’s differences. You need to understand until recently the ease of international information wasn’t as easy to get. Now for your soo hard conversation that you don’t need because in other countries extruded “aluminum” is sold in metric, not in imperial. 5/16 is about 8mm and -18 is how we measure pitch, but how we do it is rotation per inch or 25 mm, so the screw rotates 18 times per inch or 25 mm. So for you just get a 8 mm bolt and match the pitch to the 8 mm hardware.
@arcenciel2968
3 жыл бұрын
@@marinefoxalpha4499 I understand, all this is fine. However, metric applies to all the world (with very few exceptions). Propeller pitch and tube diameter comes to mind as these exceptions. For the rest, the majority, its only metric. It makes no sense to anyone in the world, except perhaps to old people in the commonwealth countries which used the imperial system before they too converted to metric. The only country left with this old imperial system is the usa. I bet when the Chinese take over as the no 1 economy (whether we like it or not), the us will understand that their measuring “language” will be obsolete. It is to the advantage of americans to start getting used to it ...the earlier the better. I personally refuse to even discuss imperial, if a producer doesn’t talk metric I just move to the next one who does. This debate (imp vs metric)is not even up for discussion anymore. Good day.
@Oracle_Speaks
3 жыл бұрын
Why not just invert the mounting bracket to have them on the inside of the 80-20
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
The bracket is not a 90 degree angle and cannot be flipped. You could reposition the rail to the outboard side of the bracket, but that is not structurally desired.
@g.l.3009
3 жыл бұрын
Nice. Clean, adjustable and rugged.
@jeronomosp
3 жыл бұрын
You've maybe not b seen it but Thule do a smartclamp system for the Promaster.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Yes, very elegant, but it is proprietary. My build philosophy leans toward customization. A "one off" bespoke original.
@rudivandoornegat2371
3 жыл бұрын
So great that you make the rack neat, light, durable. Your shop also (still) looks great, neat, well organized.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you Rudy! But my shop is in bad shape! We moved in, dropped everything and went right back to work. When Sam's van is finished, then! Totally organize, add time saving features and clean up! Can't wait!
@msk806
3 жыл бұрын
Dissimilar metal issues solved. Smart man
@rogerthornton4068
3 жыл бұрын
I have a 2018 Chevy express passenger extended van that I have crudely turned into a camper for my wife and I. We are seniors. I need to have air conditioning installed on the roof. Can you do this. I will run it on a generator
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
I’m sorry Roger, but I only do full builds.
@lukefarmer5391
Жыл бұрын
What series of 8020 did you use here? 4040? 15? Thanks and great video
@HumbleRoad
Жыл бұрын
10 series
@mjremy2605
3 жыл бұрын
When 80/20 charges so much for their hardware, why on earth would they use rust prone materials? I'm dumb founded! I am glad you exposed this. What a rip off. How on earth did you get that Fiamma awning long piece shipped? Its the length of the van. Must have been a pickup. Very hard to carry that piece in any vehicle from the maker or retail outlet.| Question: If you are using glass solar panels, those are heavy at 38 lbs each. 6 roof panels x 38 lbs = 228 lbs. Plastic Flex panels are 1/2 lb each or 6 x .5 = 3 lbs. You save 225 lbs. They cost $100 each and price keeps dropping. Why not change them out if they fail every 5 yrs. You spend $300 but save a lot of gas costs and Cargo Carrying Capacity? What we need is a system to mount them. Imagine a system that slides out like wings on either side, providing shade to vehicle, esp over cab side. Slide out when parked. Slide back in for less when not. They stack on top of each other like gliding drawers. If you did two glides, you would save on roof real estate too, providing a small deck or cargo box on top. The ideal material to mount them to, would be Lexan Corroplast - resilient to UV and weather and shatter resistant, light, and having both insulating properties and air cooling for panels. You put a frame over them like a picture frame, holding both panel and Lexan together coupled tightly,. This becomes the 'drawer' you glide in and out or mount directly on roof rack. For added stability against wind forces, you add some thin cross bars over it. This will prevent flyaway. I dislike those heavy glass panels on roof. We need a lighter solution. Hopefully there is one. I've been struggling with this concept to figure out a solution for my RV solar. I have both panels but my RV is heavy enough. If anyone knows a good solution for mounting flex panels please share it. I know they are not as efficient but my god, I cannot accept that 38 lbs weight!
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Not necessarily a rip off. Those particular bolts are simply not intended for outdoor use. They also sell stainless steel. As you saw in this video, the 100W panels I use are not that heavy, I carried two of them with mounting rails attached up to the roof. I like your picture frame idea.
@mjremy2605
3 жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad Glad to know quality still exists with 80/20. Thanks George!
@set921
3 жыл бұрын
My biggest concern would be noise whistle or hum.
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
Stay tuned
@AndreasEUR
3 жыл бұрын
1 3/16 ″ alu extrusion(30mmx30mm) vs 1 37/64 ″ alu extrusion? (40x40mm) for roof rack / upper cabinets inside? It's for a Transit, I think 30x30 will be good enough, but I watched another youtuber who used 4040 for upper cabinets. Thoughts?
@HumbleRoad
3 жыл бұрын
I have been using 15 series for the heavier modules; refridge, garage framing and shower box. And 10 series for all cabinets.
@AndreasEUR
3 жыл бұрын
@@HumbleRoad Thank you for taking time to respond to me, I really appreciate it. 10 series I believe is 1"x1" so just a little bit shy of our 30x30mm. On the solar roof rack you built in this video, did you use 10 series for the initial frame? > Also, can I ask what 8020 costs approx over there?
@moneypitvan6378
3 жыл бұрын
@@AndreasEUR I use the 1" for everything but I can understand using the 15 series for heavier items - it's bulletproof. I love the lighter weight and smaller volume of the 1", and if you don't need extended, unsupported stretches, it works great. I've even thought people could get away with the 20mm stuff on Amazon (sold mainly for 3D printers) if they're trying to keep costs down. I think it would work for cabinets and smaller structures.
@Uu-vr3wr
8 ай бұрын
What size are these
@damienpv
9 ай бұрын
Really cool 👍🏼 I've about got all my stuff together to start my roof rack for my solar panels but I've thought long and hard about this because a rv roof isn't enough square feet to have enough solar to run everything all the time. Soooo I decided I'm gonna double stack my roof rack. The bottom will be stationary and the top ones will have actuators. So when I set my rv up, I'll push a button and engage the actuators and they'll fold out. So I'll have 6,400 watts of solar which is perfect. Can't ever have to much power 😂
@sowetorecreationalvehicles7658
3 жыл бұрын
Very clever design...
@esparka
2 жыл бұрын
“Gardian angel! …. there’s probably 2 or 3 of them watching after me…”. Belly laugh goodness! Thnx
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