SolarFlex 400i System

[sidgod1018]

This is awesome. I really want to thank you for the photos. It will definitely point me in the right direction.

[Foldbak]

I knew jetskier was going to chime in Ask for more pics, bet he has one or two more..

[Foldbak]

I'm bringing this thread back up for B&W Travel. Regarding upgrading a Flex 400 solar package. Bryan, install 2 additional panels on the roof and connect to the existing ports. Upgrade the Victron solar controller. This is where I'm not sure which one he needs. I believe it's the MPPT 100/50
https://www.victronenergy.com/solar-...-100-30-100-50
Here is a wiring diagram.

[rames14]

The 100/50 is good for 700 watts. So, with four 200 watt panels he would be cheaper to just add another duplicate SCC to what he has.

[Foldbak]

How do you add another controller? Are the 2 roof top solar ports individually home run to the battery bay? I've never dug in that deep.

[B&W Travel]

That is my question as well. i understand that the new panels can plug into the top roof connection but how it is wired so that I can add the seconded controller and get that wired to the batteries is what I am not clear on.

[Foldbak]

Originally Posted by B&W Travel

That is my question as well. i understand that the new panels can plug into the top roof connection but how it is wired so that I can add the seconded controller and get that wired to the batteries is what I am not clear on.

This from Keystone. If I read it right it sounds like the second ports are home run as a pre-wire to the battery bay.
EXPAND YOUR SYSTEM

SolarFlex 400i is designed to be easily customized at the dealership before you take delivery of your RV or as your solar energy needs change.
ADD SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION

• Connect Zamp portable solar panel to pre-wired port

ADD SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION + FASTER CHARGING

• Install 1-2 additional 200w Future Solutions panels (KRV part# 679074)and add a 15A (KRV part# 679075)or 30A solar charge controller (KRV part# 679077) in the charge controller prep location.
• Upgrade 200-watt panel(s) with two 330w Future Solutions panels (KRV part# 701474) and add a 15A (KRV part# 679075) or 30A (KRV part# 679077) charge controller in the charge controller prep location.
• Add 100 Ah heated Dragonfly Energy™ Lithium-ion batteries – available exclusively through authorized Keystone RV dealers

ADD SOLAR POWER TO RUN A/C

• Add a second inverter (Xantrex - KRV part# 653865 or Magnum - KRV part# 686127)that is large enough to provide power for the A/C unit to the pre-wired A/C loop. In many cases, the air conditioner that comes with your RV can be used when equipped with a Micro-Air Soft Start, Soft Start RV, or similar component. Consult with your dealer for advice specific to your make and model.

[rames14]

Sounds like you answered your question. Most dealers don’t mention the Keystone app. Here is the link to the 400i from the app. https://www.keystonerv.com/solarflex-400i-overview

[Foldbak]

This might help. I have to assume that by removing the black cover near the controller will expose the secondary roof ports.

[RacerX]

I think you have all drilled down to this answer, but I actually dug behind the solar prep cover and can confirm that the 400i includes a second loop of 12/2 wiring for an 120v connection from the (bigger or second) inverter location which originates at the breaker panel and carries to the second AC location. (Bedroom).

It also has two capped 12 v pairs of 10awg wiring in the second charge controller location. The one labeled “PV” connects to the second (unused) rooftop ports for future solar panel additions. The one labeled “battery” is a hot pair to the battery thru the giggy box Both of these anticipate a second charge controller. I am using the battery pair to connect a charge controller for my portable panel and bypassing the side port entirely.

[Rallen]

Hi I’m looking at buying a new Montana with the 400i and two lithium batteries. My question is will this run my frig 24/7 my seasonal has no power but I do have a 2000 Honda generator for back up and possibly charge my batteries at times.

[Foldbak]

Unfortunately your setup is meant to power the res fridge while traveling. Maybe 8 hours? Res fridges are not a great idea for boondocking.

[AZ Traveler]

Originally Posted by Rallen

Hi I’m looking at buying a new Montana with the 400i and two lithium batteries. My question is will this run my frig 24/7 my seasonal has no power but I do have a 2000 Honda generator for back up and possibly charge my batteries at times.

Depends on which refer you get and what else you want to run. Your genny will definitely support it.

[rames14]

There is not a solar package available that I would trust to run the fridge unattended. When I think seasonal, I think visiting on the weekends, so maybe I am wrong. A cloudy week and anything perishable will be toast, even with the 1200i.

[Rallen]

Thanks that what I was thinking sales people will tell you what you want to here to buy a 70k fifth wheel. Thanks for the feed back will continue to look for a gas frig just hard to find.

[AZ Traveler]

Originally Posted by Rallen

Thanks that what I was thinking sales people will tell you what you want to here to buy a 70k fifth wheel. Thanks for the feed back will continue to look for a gas frig just hard to find.

I would not look for the old style RV gas absorption refer - if looking at a new rig, I would do the newer RV 12 volt compressor model. Either will work but many are converting their gas absorption models to compressor systems.

[Foldbak]

I'll stick with the absorption for now. I'm hearing from friends that boondocking with solar in hot cloudy climates is proving to be a problem. Absorption surely isn't perfect (my cooling unit is being replaced under warranty right now) but has been used for decades and if operating properly work great boondocking. IMO

[Foldbak]

I think this question was asked at some point in this thread. I just went out to investigate where the second set of solar connections terminated. Found um!
Right where the 30 controller would go.

[Our3231CK]

My neighbor here in snowbird country has a new keystone cougar he picked up from CW a month ago. He asked me if I turn off my solar system when i plug into shore power, as the CW tech told him he needed to when not traveling or boon docking. I always leave mine on since new and had not heard of turning off the system. Anyone else hear of turning the system off when plugged in?

I've reviewed numerous websites, including Victron and none mention turning it off.

[Foldbak]

Originally Posted by Our3231CK

My neighbor here in snowbird country has a new keystone cougar he picked up from CW a month ago. He asked me if I turn off my solar system when i plug into shore power, as the CW tech told him he needed to when not traveling or boon docking. I always leave mine on since new and had not heard of turning off the system. Anyone else hear of turning the system off when plugged in?

I've reviewed numerous websites, including Victron and none mention turning it off.

The tech was wrong. Leave the solar alone.