Solar Panels

[Mlaugden]

We bought a 2018 23IKSS in August. It has a plug on it to attach a solar panel which says use only Zamp panels. I’m assuming the controller is built into the trailer but I’m not sure. Any advice about this would be appreciated. We do mostly boondocking and I don’t like generators.

[Rich.M]

If you don't see a charge controller on the wall then you don't have one. The zamp plugs are just wire to the batteries and usually limited in amps to the available portable solar kits with integrated controller. That may or may not be enough power for your boondocking Most who boondock use 200 - 400 watts and still keep a back up generator. That usually means putting some panels on the roof .Read some of the solar power threads over the last 2 years to help you decide how much you may need and if you need upgrading the batteries. Good luck.

[bikendan]

Controller is NOT built into the trailer.
You have to buy the Zamp kit, which is considered overpriced by most.
Some buy other brands that are MUCH cheaper, you just have to reverse the plug.
There are tons of threads about the Zamp system on the Forum.

[Flybob]

X2 on wiring only ( and undersized at that). Also Zamp connectors are many times opposite polarity from most common panels. Best bet start from scratch. Solar Ready ( with zamp) is nothing more than a marketing ploy.