EASY Truck Mod To Save BIG! Adding Solar Power To My Tacoma - Kayak USA
Original video from @Kayak USA
Here is an overview:
- Introduction: Exploring Solar Power as a Game-Changer for Your Tacoma
- How Lensun Hood Solar Panel Was Chosen
- Benefits of Adding Hood Solar Panel to Your Truck
- Step-by-Step Guide: Hood Solar Panel Installation on a Toyota Tacoma
- Cost Breakdown: How Hood Solar Panels Save You Money on the Road
- Conclusion: A Smart Investment for Overlanders
Original video from @Kayak USA
Here is an overview:
- Introduction: Exploring Solar Power as a Game-Changer for Your Tacoma
- How Lensun Hood Solar Panel Was Chosen
- Benefits of Adding Hood Solar Panel to Your Truck
- Step-by-Step Guide: Hood Solar Panel Installation on a Toyota Tacoma
- Cost Breakdown: How Hood Solar Panels Save You Money on the Road
- Conclusion: A Smart Investment for Overlanders
Introduction: Exploring Solar Power as a Game-Changer for Your Tacoma
The 2012 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma was transformed into an overlanding camping rig but became impractical as a daily driver due to poor fuel efficiency, averaging less than 15 MPG. The vehicle is mainly used for hunting, fishing, and camping, leaving it idle for extended periods. This prolonged inactivity led to battery issues, with the truck struggling to start. Even after replacing the battery with a high-end Red Top Optima, long periods of idling without charging still risked premature battery degradation. To prevent this, a hood solar panel is an ideal solution, ensuring the battery remains charged and extends its lifespan.
How Lensun Hood Solar Panel Was Chosen
Choosing the right solar panel involved a series of steps to ensure the best solution for the vehicle's needs.
- Initial Research: A trickle charger was considered, but the hassle of cords led to the exploration of solar panels.
- In-depth Research: Lensun Solar was found, offering hood-mounted panels for Tacomas and 300+ other vehicles.
- Product Selection: A sleek, custom hood solar panel specifically for the 3rd Gen Tacoma was chosen.
This process led to the selection of a solar panel that meets both functional and aesthetic needs for the Tacoma.
Benefits of Adding Hood Solar Panel to Your Truck
Integrating a hood solar panel into your truck setup offers several key advantages, particularly for those who spend time outdoors or on extended trips.
- Continuous Power Supply: The hood solar panel ensures the vehicle’s battery stays charged and ready, even when parked for long periods.
- Versatile Charging for Camping Setup: It also powers the camping setup battery, providing reliable power for extended trips.
- Cost Savings: By preventing the battery from degrading due to inactivity, the solar panel extends its lifespan and helps avoid costly replacements.
For overlanders and outdoor enthusiasts, a hood solar panel provides both practical and cost-effective benefits, ensuring a reliable power source on the go.
Step-by-Step Guide: Hood Solar Panel Installation on a Toyota Tacoma
To install solar panels on a Toyota Tacoma, follow these practical steps for efficiency and functionality.
Tools Needed:
- Cleaning supplies
- Scissors (for cutting tape)
- Chalk pencil or marker
- Zip ties and anchors
Installation Steps:
To install hood solar panels on a Toyota Tacoma, follow these practical steps for efficiency and functionality.
1. Install the Hood Decal:
- Clean the hood thoroughly.
- Apply mild detergent (e.g., hand soap or shampoo) to both the hood and decal back.
- Smooth out the decal using a squeegee, ensuring no bubbles.
- Let the decal sit for at least 48 hours; install in temperatures above 60°F.
2. Mount the Solar Panel:
- Clean the back of the panel.
- Apply 3M double-sided tape to the back, avoiding stretching.
- Mark the center of the hood, align, and press the solar panel onto the hood from bottom to top.
3. Wiring Setup:
- Route the wires neatly along the edge under the hood.
- Secure the wires with provided zip ties and anchors.Connect the wires to the charge controller near the battery.
4. Connect Power Source:
- Connect the red and black wires from the controller to the battery.
- Attach the solar panel to the controller.
5. Test the System:
- Download and install the companion app to monitor and manage performance.
Precautions
- Ensure the decal stays on for at least 48 hours, and install in temperatures above 60°F.
- Avoid stretching the tape to ensure strong adhesion.
- Keep wiring neat and organized to prevent interference.
- Follow instructions carefully for secure connections and functionality.
Cost Breakdown: How Hood Solar Panels Save You Money on the Road
Adding a hood solar panel to your Toyota Tacoma offers valuable financial savings, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and overlanders. The solar panel reduces the need for fuel-powered generators and minimizes trips to charging stations, significantly lowering fuel and electricity costs over time.
Key Cost-Saving Factors:
- Fuel Savings : With less reliance on idling or generators, you'll make fewer trips to the pump.
- Electricity Savings : Solar power eliminates the need for campground hookups, reducing additional charges.
- Battery Longevity : By keeping the vehicle’s battery charged and healthy, the solar panel helps avoid costly replacements.
Overall, integrating solar power into your truck setup proves to be a practical, cost-effective investment for long-term savings.
Usage Experience
- Aesthetic Appeal: The hood solar panel enhances the truck's appearance. The larger decal creates a defined outline, seamlessly blending with the vehicle's design.
- Functionality: The accompanying app tracks battery performance. The solar panel trickle-charges the battery when exposed to sunlight, extending its lifespan.
- Practical Benefits: It charges both the vehicle and camping setup, providing reliable power for outdoor activities.
Conclusion: A Smart Investment for Overlanders
Adding a hood solar panel to your truck is a simple yet effective modification that ensures your vehicle’s battery stays charged, even during periods of inactivity. It offers a reliable power source for off-grid adventures and saves money on costly battery replacements. If you’re looking for a practical upgrade that supports your overlanding lifestyle, consider installing a hood solar panel—your truck will thank you.
LensunSolar Offer More Than 300 Vehicle Models
In addition to the Toyota Tacoma, LensunSolar also offers hood solar panels for various Toyota models including RAV4 , 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Tundra, Hilux, Land Cruiser 70series, 80series, 100series, 200series , etc.
Moreover, LensunSolar provides hood solar panels for off-road SUVs and trucks from brands such as Jeep , Ford , Land Rover , Chevrolet , Dodge , Subaru , Nissan , Mercedes-Benz , Lexus , Volkswagen , Tesla and many more.
Interested in becoming a wholesale dealer? Explore our dealer opportunities here:
Wholesale Dealer Information
LensunSolar Contact Information
www.lensunsolar.com
Tel: US +1 720-608-1288
China: +86 15759769602
Whatsapp: +86 15759769602
Skype: lensunsolar
Email: info@lensunsolar.com, lensunsolar@gmail.com
