Roll On The Sunshine... - Episode 19 

Whos here from tiktok? Nice to see you here Lol 😆😆😆

If you are having unwonted visitors, how safe are your soar panels from theft or damage when you are not there?

The place were your moored looks a nice trouble free place but you mention poeple are getting in .????? I would definitely move the boat away from that bridge if your getting young trespassers thay would love them solor pannals from a hight .!!! And the temp door with a flimsy lock can be easy pulled open if thay wanted in.....!! New build security would be my 1st priority making it tamper / vandal prof...2nd CCTV IN OPPOSITION stickers for your windows 3rd dummy cams either end of boat pathside as temporary small cheap affective means to detor vandalism and trespassers would everyone agree.!!!

Good morning from the states! I just watched your video pertaining to the solar module mounting. I have been in solar for twenty years and have concerns about your installation. You should reach out to the module manufacturer for confirmation on this, but please read this below. I have to think in the UK your optimal degree of tilt will be around 30 to 35 degrees due south. At this angle, your spacing of modules will be 10 to 15 feet to minimize "shading. "......Very important!! Most module's have a circuit built in to help protect them from damage. If you cast shade on your module (even a small portion) IT WILL SHUT DOWN THE ENTIRE MODULE. If you mount 3 going in one direction and three in another, and then wire them in the same series loop you will drag down the entire string. Low performance! If you do want to mount them in Opposite direction, then you should wire them with separate circuits "strings" and take both strings back to the inverter. ( parallel) the two groups. But your biggest problem is shading. Again, reach out to your suppliers and have a discussion with them about this. Or find a local solar installer and have a discussion with them. Hope this helps.

Another great update - however, I would suggest leaving all that solar tech stuff behind until your vessel is completely secure and then worthy habitable, then you can connect it all up. Meantime, sleep in it overnight with some friends until it's all banterned down and secure...

Having your panels vertical and close together each one will shade the other ...... thats why narrow boats have then angled outboard .

Strongly suggest you turn down the background music since it makes it near impossible to listen to what someone is saying. Been waiting for an update on what your doing. You two have taken on a huge project of rebuilding the hull. Interested on seeing your layout of the interior and how you are going to accomplish it. Will you have skilled help with the work? It appears that you have done a tidy job of wiring the panels together. Now comes the batteries and controllers.

Obviously you didn't take any advice on how to fit them and the cable is way over the top 4mm singles would be fine you are causing shading issues and also wind problems should have put them in landscape facing outwards

Lovely job. Did anyone suggest that all the panels should face the sun at the same time for maximum effect. Having them in the shade of each other also will cut down their effectiveness as well. Love your channel, can't wait for the next one to come out.

Port panels tile one way and starboard tile the other, you said you are wiring in series, I hope you run 2 pairs of wires down below so you have a port bank and a starboard bank, it won't matter much when the panels are flat, but later particularly in winter and you need to eek the most power you can out of the panels, you'll tile them towards the sun only 1/2 will be facing the sun and if they are all in series you'll be just be wasting power on the shaded panels, if you want them all in series tilt them all the same way. Also since you have the space, space the panels apart as much as you can so when they're tilted up they don't shade the one behind them.

Need to isolate the aluminium from the steal with a rubber seal or it will react and corrode they need earthing because if there is a fault they will be live and will give you a shock and dc doesn't let go

Yous are doing an amazing job, I’m thoroughly enjoying your journey. Security is very important, it’s good that your neighbours are keeping an eye on things while your not around, as I’m most certain that the local constabulary will not be interested. Looking forward to to your next show 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

Why when you had it in the drydock and were doing the welding didn't you have mounting brackets for the solar installed instead of putting so many holes through the roof also some hinges on the door openings even if they weren't permanent maybe you should think about getting a small cheep stick welder and learn how to use it you have a steel boat things should be mounted externally not through or you will forever have leaks.

Nice video. I'm not a solar panel expert but I don't know if it's a good idea to tilt the panels in two different directions, especially if all the panels are in series. The panels that receive the least sun will reduce the yield for the entire series. Also be careful that the shadow of one panel does not fall on the other panel when the solar panels are tilted, especially in winter when the sun is low on the horizon, this can become a problem. Depending on which wind direction the boat is moored, it may even be better if the panels simply lie flat. Furthermore, make sure that the DC input of the solar charge controller can handle the total voltage of all panels in series.

I hope you didn’t drill holes in your roof to mount the panels…

I would recommend that you changed the fitting of the door. All your screws are accessible from the outside and only minutes to take off to gain access again.

aly and steel not a good match put a seal so the steel not touching a panel frame save some head aks down the water way

Doing great with the build so far. However, I have a question Why didn't you mount the panels with the connectors at the BOTTOM of the panels when they are in up position? This would have given you extra length Also I think the panels would have been better suited, mounted via the short side. To enable them to take full use of sunlight Having them stand up like you have, the would cast shadow over the ones behind and reduce intake Also having them mounted as you have, you are relying on the sun being in front to maximize intake

I would just leave the panels laying flat.

You originally from South Africa?

I don't know if you can do this in the UK, but this is what I did in the US when I built my boat. Step 1 - Set up a limited liability company (this is fairly easy to do in the US) for the build of the boat. Step 2 - If you have suppliers you use all the time, set up a commercial account with each of them. In the US this eliminates sales tax on anything you purchase and you also get the wholesale price on what you are buying instead of paying retail. Step 3 - Don't forget to file your yearly tax statement with Inland Revenue each year (although this will usually show a loss, so no taxable income). This can save you anywhere from 20% to 40% on the cost of your materials and taxes (if that applies in the UK). You should keep records on what you purchased and store them in a safe place as if you sell the boat, any deferred VAT or other taxes (if this applied) will now become due upon sale of the boat. You can include this in the boat sale price if you want.

If your having issues with trespassers, you might consider using some sort of security fasteners on the solar. panels like; security torx or such

If U need 1 man to finish the project bro.

Good idea locking the barge, but I don't think it will work because you put the hinge on the outside with the screw heads exposed. So 1 cordless screwdriver, 6 screws out and they are back in, just a thought. 1 other thought about the solar panels, Why didn't you mount the panels with the connectors at the bottom of the panels when they are in up position? If you had done it that way you might have had enough cable. 👍👍👍👍👍

your better off leaving them flat

Ecoworthy are great value and quality we just bought a setup for our boat from them great customer service

I hope you have used butyl tape (a bead of material - not at tape as such) to seal the fixings. It remains flexible for life, is easy to remove, whereas silicone and other sealants don't seal well long term, are a pain to remove, contaminate surfaces (bad for painting). The one I am using is Reemo High Performance Butyl Sealing Tape - 8mm Bead x 6m Length. The structured tape is not what you need. There are videos on how to use the butyl tape, essentially make a bead and warp it tightly around the screw/bolt, then tighten, squeeze out is good. When taking cable through the deck use some proper 'marine cable glands'. The stop the water getting in.

I was just concerned that you fitted the solar panels so early. Then I hear that people have been getting inside so, worried that the panels might get stolen.

Hi guys, Every time I look forward to seeing your next video now I know y you do so much to make your barge nice and great to make your home ⛴️, You take care of yourself and stay safe,🛠️🛠️⭐️👍❤️

Maybe I'm wrong... but was the width not 14 feet originally? And are you guys not originally South African? (Apologies if I'm wrong) Nevertheless... well done. Good luck. This (ex) rust bucket WILL definately change your lives. (count on it).

Tinting the windows so people can't see if anyone's in is a good deterent. Put stuff on it so it looks occipied..?

Seeing the colour or your boat’s roof, I hope it does not get too hot for Barley’s little feet Pads on hot sunny days. Good job with the panels though !,!

Episode 20 please

The progress you are making is awesome. The puppy on the roof supervising is hilarious 😅. Best wishes from the states. ❤

It really is too bad that Chris did not understand what Barley was trying to tell him when he was busy with the wiring of the solar panels, myself I have a great understanding of what the dogs expressions mean, and here Barley was trying as good as he could : "Don't bother Chris, I can do that in no-time at all, if you first stroke me a bit, to show me that you love me as much as I love you", but sadly his message didn't seem to come through. Still you both did some good work, and if all is well your temporary (forever) door will keep the nasties out, and give your neighbour a bit of a rest from playing the watchman.

Just FYI i have flat panels on my roof according to my victron app they work fine, no need to angle the panels at all, i can angle them but is no discernable benefit, just saying!

Why u guys so sporadic in building. Never seem to know when u upload a video. Almost tired of looking now. Sorry...

Don't get caught in someone's boat here in Canada. They will walk away limping. They wouldn't be in good shape

Okay I'm curious of what voltage you're generating from those panels, you wired those up in series vs parallel? Wasn't that battery you got 24 volt? I think you need to explain to us what and how your system is going to be😊. I still think you could have a great hybrid electric boat 🚢 with a diesel gen set a nd batteries along with the solar. Great work guys and keep up the great videos.😊

I hope you take no offense to this but a lot of times when I watch restoration videos in any genre which I love 75% of the time the people are doing stuff I'm like man I don't know if I can do that this guy is really skilled but with you guys it's just dettermination not a lot of skill so it seems doable keep going your making progress and not quiting

Wow, I think you really need to slow down and get your priorities right. The solar cannot be a priority. The ability to secure the boat and its contents has to be numero uno. You need a permanent steel door sort of access (and hatch). You really do not want to be drilling so many holes in your roof for the solar and to be honest that tilted array you have come up with is a bit of a shitshow. Sorry to be negative.

Panels 134mm? That’s like, 4 inches. Think you mean 134cm!

Sorry, the PV Modules are not in the perfekt position. But a great Video.👌

I would mount the panels on the other roof. The roof with the rails can be use to transport stuff and tie it down to the rails.

Shouldn't the panels face east west to get the maximum sunshine, eg sun rising in the east sets in the west?

Hi, well done on the progress so far. Just a bit of solar advice, I think your panels are bi directional, so reflection of the roof adds to the power, so maybe in the future, put a lighter colour under where they are mounted. Also, I know you won't have them as high on the brackets, as you have had them, while fitting, just remember shading from the other panels during the day will cut down your generation due to your series connection. Take a look at other boats, they tend to have a triangular mounting for a port to starboard arrangement. All the best 👍

Making steady progress. Are you on a permanent mooring there now?

Hi guys great progress yet again are you finishing the outside completely and then moving inside, and have you chose your engine yet cheers 🥂

Could you not set the brackets so you could angle them either way

VIRAL IN TIKTOK FROM MALAYSIA ❤❤❤❤

i think your solla would be better with the inches on the end so you would not have to lower them every time yuo go under a bridge

Waiting for next episode 😊✌️

Il suo compagno ogni tanto dovrebbe dare una carezza al cane ,come fai tu.

Good to Barley in his rightful place. As the project supervisor.

How dear they get in to your boat. Yes lock them out.

Most people forget. A lock is only designed to keep the honest person honest.

ciao, please your new panel when you are out ,are insafe. need a camera online.

Can't wait for the next video. Love from Philippines...

I used to follow my rubbish on your boat

134 mm 🙈, never leave a woman with a tape measure 😂

Have you measured the overall height from the waterline to the top of the solar panels? Wondering what kind of clearance there is under some of the bridges? Some of the videos I have seen showed fairly low clearance. You guy would know better than me since I am in the States. Good luck!

Love it progress is so exciting and let’s face it it gets better the boat I mean every time you do stuff love it and always willing to help ie hold the camera no if you need help ask ❤

I'm sorry but I had to laugh at the point where you were going into the store to buy the cable... it was a school for the gifted moment, door clearly stated 'pull' but you initially pushed it... 😁

LOL that Pull sign is a bit unclear eh? 😂😘

Sino nabitin sa TikTok kaya dito kayo pumunta 😂

Coming along nicely guys. Why install solor panels and cables if your not living on boat, sadly its the sort of thing little dirt bags will try and steal if the boats unattended. Also use carrage bolts on temp door hinges then they cant be undone from outside

Priscilla's had some ballet training! I refer to the 2:42 - 2:46 minute mark. Am I correct?

Strange way to mount solar panels

Man these small channels are just all one long ad.. they think you won’t notice bc they’re selling solar panels and shit they can use.. its all an ad

nice to see you have solar and door, looking good can‘t wait to see you work on the inside .

5200 fast dry marine sealant.

I think laying solar panels flat would look nice and you won't have head aches of parking the boat facing only one direction

Die Übersetzung ins deutsche ist eine Katastrophe

Came here from Tiktok and I love this project of yours

Honestly, I would have just permanently mounted them flat. Makes them more secure, easier to mount and far less noticeable. Standing up like that they will draw the gaze of people from a long way away. Having the tilt seems like it would only be a benefit if the boat was pointing towards the sun. Then there is the issue of raising and lowering them for obstacles like low bridges or tunnels (you only have to forget once or the wind get under them and lift them up at the worst possible time.). Personally I would have mounted them flat, very well secured and just add an extra panel on each side to make up for any power loss due to less then optimal angle. It would also mean you could just forget about them once installed as they wouldn't need adjustment also the boat orientation wouldn't make any difference to the power output. It would also mean that they wouldn't cast a shadow and so could be mounted as close together as you like. This would likely give room for additional panels either now or in the future.

Hi, I’m suprised that you are purchasing high value products when the boat is not properly secure. Not only honest people watch your channel. Good luck for the future

Do you have a designated space along the canal you rent to moor your boat? Or is it more of a first come, first moor situation? Also, are there any height restrictions or requirements on the canal system? I have seen other videos where it appears there are very low bridges over the canals, though I don't know if you will be traveling on any of those. I really enjoy watching your progress and am looking forward to future videos.

With the solar up & running you’ll be able to install a CCTV camera to keep an eye n the inside & alert you of any unwanted visitors 👍 Seems an odd way to mount them, but I guess that’ll be in the proof if they work as expected.

What about the engine?

wow real ballet bloody hard to do well

You may already be aware of this, but it is a very good idea to use sealing washers (and or putty) with the screws that are attaching the panels to the top of the cabin. Don't need any of that famous English rain dripping in. Progress looks great.

Lekker! Good p[rogress!

Your security door can be easily opened by removing a few screws in the hinges. It would have been better to fix the hinges with pop rivets or small bolts with locknuts hidden on the inside - at the moment using just one screwdriver and they're in.

I’m sure some type of determined people will just unscrew the hinges, use bolts and either lock nuts or smear some epoxy on the threads that are past the nuts. Look out for any security companies that might sponsor an alarm or cameras or better still both, I find a security light and siren scatter the anti social but a Wi-Fi set up can help with actual pictures of the person.

Why don't you get in touch with the MOD, they have ships ready to be scrapped and somewhere you'll find a metal hatch for the upper deck that will fit and it could be a permanent fixture.

you are doing a brilliant job of work in your rebuild...but your solar panels can cast a shodow on the one behind if they are too close to each other or the angle is too high...unless you know this brilliant show we watch every episode ...

Shawn Rhymes here and I enjoyed this video as I've enjoyed your other videos of the work on your canal boat. Thanks for the video and I'm looking forward to your next episode.

Loved seeing how Barley went to both of you. But it was your wife that scratched and rubbed Barley. He is neat even if he is a dapple BT.

Looking really good .a massive improvement every week .. but as with others comments it’s still easy to gain entry with either a screwdriver or pry bar .. personally I would add another hasp and stronger anti theft padlocks and replace at least one screw on each hinge with nuts and bolts .. enough to deter casual visitors .. and once you have power a really noisy alarm system 😊

Barley was walking back and forth showing you guys, that the space works for him, because in fact it is all about how well he can walk.

good job with the panels sponsership im not an expert on solar panels just saying i think you have done well as regards your unwanted visitors me personally would invest in two hidden cameras one outside covering your door and the other inside at least you would have faceul evidence good luck with the refit

Good idea to put a door on but can I suggest you put the hinges on the inside. All you need is a screwdriver to remove the screws and your in. Great content keep it up

Just one idea! Run all your wires down through the roof for each panel and then make your connections, this will free up the wires off the roof out of weather and from getting damaged!

tt brought me here😅

Its all coming together 😁 soon be time for the interior i guess, super excited for that! Make sure you seal around the holes where you fixed your panels to the roof to stop any water weeping through.

134mm right 😂😂

Also if you put the panels up the other way with the connectors at the bottom there may have been enough length to reach between the panels without having to make extender cables. Might have made it easier to make it neat as well if the cables were near the pivot point rather than at the end of the panel furthest from the roof.

Hopefully the party animals don't mess with your solar panels.

die dornese bliksems gaan julle beroof ...LOL! ... id leave those panels till last

Tik tok then here