Hood Mounted Flexible Solar Panel Install on a Land Rover LR3!

Рет қаралды 18,946

2 жыл бұрын

A few years ago I purchased a cheap 80 watt solar panel installed it on the hood of my Land Rover LR3. It worked, but it wasn't great and ended up failing, which I was expecting. Overall the process was positive and ultimately led me to find Lensun Solar, an up-and-coming solar panel company that specializes in unique and custom size flexible solar panels for vehicle applications. When I came across their company, they had just released a custom fit panel for the Toyota FJ Cruiser...I loved the look and needed one for my LR3! Fast forward to early 2021 as they just announced a custom fit flexible solar panel for the LR3 and LR4!!!! I was pumped and couldn't wait to get my hands on it. :)
In this video I go through the process of installing Lensun’s new flexible solar panel custom fit for the hood of a Land Rover LR3 and LR4, model years 2005 - 2016. Mounting a panel on the hood of a vehicle is a great way to utilize dead space and is perfect for the weekend warrior, overlander or anyone looking to harness solar power in your vehicle.
Check it out and let me know what you think!
If you are interested in seeing if Lensun makes a panel for your vehicle, head over to their website:
www.lensunsolar.com.
USE CODE: "CHARACTOR" FOR 10% OFF YOUR PURCHASE :)
Products used in this video:
Nylon Roller
3M VHB Tape
3M Knifeless tape
Vvivid matte black wrap
Flush cut pliers
Gasket Sealant
MC4 Connector kit
Click here to view these items in my Amazon Shopping list: a.co/an2EbG2
If you like to support the channel, feel free to buy me a cup of coffee on Patreon :)
/ charactorclub
Social media and web links:
DRAWER SYSTEMS
www.drawersystems.com
Instagram: / drawersystems
Facebook: / drawersystems
Drawer Systems Facebook Group:
/ drawersystems
CHARACTOR CLUB
www.charactorclub.com
Instagram: / charactorclub
Facebook: / charactorclub
DISCLAIMER:
This video is meant for entertainment purposes only. Charactor Club, LLC assumes no liability or responsibility for property damages or injury incurred as a result of any information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Charactor Club, LLC recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and/or with tools seen in this video. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Charactor Club, LLC. Please be safe and when in doubt, consult a licensed professional.
Thanks for watching!

Пікірлер: 112

@jake05sti 2 жыл бұрын

Have the cascadia 4x4 panel on my LR4. Not only is it great to keep my dual batteries topped up, also gets a lot of questions everywhere I go! I even notice the controller activating under shop lights lol works great.

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Awesome! Yeah most people don't even realize mine is a solar panel...love having it on the hood and about to put one on my 2013 LR4 :)

@cherrycreektom 2 жыл бұрын

Question1: YES! Q2: YES! Q3: 2006 LR3 Great Video! Inspired me to install a panel on my 2006 LR3

@Peter-xtreme 3 ай бұрын

Yes I like the look of it. and yes I want to do the same with my vehicle, I have a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

@sandin48 Жыл бұрын

I have a Ford Expedition and I would do this in a heartbeat . And that looks awesome on your truck

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

thanks!

@philsorah990 Жыл бұрын

Great video - very informative. Have just ordered the full kit from Lensun ie panel , vinyl decal and controller, for my Nissan Patrol. I'll return to your video again for installation advice when it arrives. Interestingly, when I asked the question, Lensun said the charge controller can be mounted in the engine bay ie they suggest heat is not an issue. I'm not convinced however, so like yourself, will be mounting it inside the cabin. Also, and based on the info provided, the controller is sold as being waterproof as it conforms to IP 68 standard ( or at least the one provided with the Nissan Patrol kit does) Thanks for taking time to make the video.

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Awesome, good luck with your install! Yeah I'm sure the solar controller 'can' be installed in the engine however I prefer to have it in the cab.

@pyramydseven 2 жыл бұрын

#1 Looks badass. #2 I definitely would install one. #3 We own a little Kia Spectra 5. I would definitely still put one on.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome, check their website and see if one fits your rig!! 🙌

@rickietyler7905 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome install brother, even without the panel I love the blackout look! Going to order the vinyl tonight and look into the solar as well Thanks!

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

🙌🙌🙌🙌

@papajoe669 2 жыл бұрын

Yes, I'm planning to get one for my fortuner bonnet. great video

@paulwatson4650 Жыл бұрын

u got my vote on that solar panel on the bonnet from out here in jamaica great job kooool

@matth8445 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome job and looks really good, I'm currently looking into doing the same with my Defender 110 and now I'm going to bite the bullet and use your brilliant video for guidance...thank you👍🙏

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Matt!! I think this setup would look amazing on the Defender!

@Dieter.Reuter 2 жыл бұрын

Great idea to place the solar panel on the hood! 110w is plenty enough to keep the main+aux batteries charged.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, it works like a gem!

@ryanmerritt8643 2 жыл бұрын

Looks awesome. Can’t wait to order mine.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ryan! I just confirmed a 10% discount on the solar panel when you decide to buy it…use code: “charactor” at checkout 🙌. Please note that I’m not getting compensated for this….simply trying to help out with some info and a discount 🙂

@JohnBaxendale Жыл бұрын

I've an L322 and I'm considering putting one on mine, to supplement another couple of panels on the roof. Total overkill but you can never have too much power! :)

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Definitely doesn't hurt to have too much solar! ;)

@Allevj30 2 жыл бұрын

I have a new defender and definitely would consider this. Looks great.

@Tastewithnewdrinks 2 жыл бұрын

Great video.

@FredPerryUSA 2 жыл бұрын

Looks great and gives me an idea!

@chrissharon3213 2 жыл бұрын

I did the same on my 97 80 Series Land Cruiser. I love the look on your vehicle and my vehicle. My Auxiliary battery is getting topped off all the time. I understand heat on the hood and angle for charging. I also know the angle of the hood can change just by raising the hood. I can also be sure I will have a charge to the accessory battery which I can actually can use to jump the main. I think it’s a great idea and I’m looking forward to continued reviews of your panel.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome, thanks Chris! So far I love having it on the hood and has definitely made camping much much better without worrying about running out of juice. Long term review will probably by this summer. 🍻

@lordme88 2 жыл бұрын

Looks really nice. I just orderd an panel for my Jeep Renegade. I got an dashcam and that will for sure keep my battery charged and keep my dashcam running while parked forever. :-)

@DiegoHernandez-mx6jx Жыл бұрын

Show how it looks i also got a renegade

@pyramydseven 2 жыл бұрын

Dude, that is awesome!

@valentinruiz1032 2 жыл бұрын

Great job

@Stealthnomad007 Жыл бұрын

Looks good...I'm going to put one on my honda odessey

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Right on!

@kevf58 2 жыл бұрын

Looks great definitely like to fit one on mine . Great vidio

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@rigo3923 2 жыл бұрын

I have a 2007 LR3 and I would totally do that. I’m also in Miami.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Hey Rigo! Awesome, let me know if you have any questions on it 🍻

@VISTATREKKER 2 жыл бұрын

Nice job 👍

@nunya5253 2 жыл бұрын

Ordered mine. It's a dodge grand caravan. I got it custom made from Lensun. It comes today. Can't find anyone to install it so I'm just going to get the vinyl professionally installed and do the solar panel myself. Thanks for the video!

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome!!!! Let me know how it comes out. 🙌

@nunya5253 2 жыл бұрын

@@drawersystems I will!!!

@valentinruiz1032 2 жыл бұрын

Yes. Yes. Yes. I have a 2500 ram

@moobaz8675 11 ай бұрын

Looks good. I'm going to put solar panels on the bonnet of my 2022 Defender and my daughter's 2008 LR3 on a split charge system. My Defender is particularly power hungry so a second battery with solar is a great solution. Anyway, nice job. 👍

@drawersystems 11 ай бұрын

thanks! it's definitely been worth it and fully recommend. ;)

@justinchristner5768 2 жыл бұрын

I like it. I'm looking at putting it on my 2004 Tahoe with dual batteries under hood.as I'm just starting to build my Tahoe for off road exploring.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome, the hood of the Tahoe is very big so I’m sure that they have a panel that will fit your truck. Good luck with your build and thanks for watching!

@robinkillingsworth9663 Жыл бұрын

im planning to do it on my d3 once i have done my roof rack system and my awning 270

@discoveryadventures2296 2 жыл бұрын

I like the look and drive a LR3 here in the UK. I have a cheap solar panel on my hood but this looks much better. Regards Peter

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks...I had a cheap solar panel on mine before this one and it looked like crap in comparison. Lol

@richardweerasinghe3296 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for making the video. I’ve been looking at this panel for a while but haven’t pulled the trigger. Looks great. Btw. You can route the cable into the engine bay via the same route as the washer hose. 👍

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it Richard! Regarding routing of the cable…you can only route it through the washer jet if you remove it and it would look very odd. I’m sure there are other ways to route it but this was the easiest and cleanest option in my opinion. Also note I just confirmed a 10% discount on the solar panel when you decide to buy it…use code: “charactor” at checkout 🙌. Please note that I’m not getting compensated for this….simply trying to help out with some info and a discount 🙂

@richardweerasinghe3296 2 жыл бұрын

@@drawersystems hey. Sorry wasn’t clear. I meant you can routed the cable via the hood hinge into the engine bay to avoid going over the rubber seal. 😂. Thanks for the discount. Will likely order one. Cheers

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

@@richardweerasinghe3296 hahaha, I was picturing it very differently! I’ll take a look tomorrow to check out your idea. 🙌🙌🙌

@gurunupe 2 жыл бұрын

Great video my dude. I have a 2008 LR3. I begin my mod-project late Oct 2021. Looking to do this as well

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Good luck on your build and if you end up buying a solar panel, use code "charactor" for 10% on Lensun's website. :)

@paulodaxx 2 жыл бұрын

Looks discreet and i would install if needed. I own a Discovery 3 tdv6 Hse (from Portugal).Thanks for the video

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Paulo!

@GiselleTrujillo 2 жыл бұрын

Looks amazing! I want to do the same.

@besttourinrio9 2 жыл бұрын

If possible would be nice on silver color for your LR3. My LR3 is also Silver color.

@mattatkinson1431 4 ай бұрын

great point at 2:49!! why are LR still using bonnet mounted washer jets??? why not incorporate them into the wipers!!

@nomad.overland 2 жыл бұрын

Just subbed to the channel. Great video! Would love putting something this this on the future-LR3 (saving up for one at the moment). I live in South Korea and we get lots of sun through the year. I think this would be a great addition. My thought is to have dedicated second battery for the solar panel just to make sure the systems stay separate.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment and the sub! Yeah, I did the dual battery upgrade and this solar is connected to the 'house' battery...both batteries are separated with a voltage sensing relay made for boats. It's worked well for about 5 years so far. :)

@safiramal1 2 жыл бұрын

Great video and good work. Its looks fantastic, absolutely 👌🏻 I have an LR4 and yes i would install such panel, depends on the price and availability in israel 🤷🏻‍♂️

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Safi! I’ll reach out to Lensun and let you know if they can ship to Israel. 🙌

@keeganrasmussen977 Жыл бұрын

Got my whole setup for the price of a new battery, where you's looks like you went through cascadia 4x4 and could have got a few new batteries....

@agcamprubi4544 2 жыл бұрын

I'm starting a project with an 07 L322 Range Rover SC, it would be awesome to install one of those solar panel that fit my hood.

@jamesnorris6621 Жыл бұрын

Liked and Subscribed 👍👍👍

@galiadel 2 жыл бұрын

i like the look, i want one, on my Disco3 (aka LR3)

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Check out their website and use code “charactor” for 10% off. :) www.lensunsolar.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=440&search=Lr3

@phattdaddy2974 2 жыл бұрын

I could see doing that to my '07 LR3, I like this option vs. a whole new second battery install, all I need to run is my fridge. (1), I like the look, although my Rover is black so it wont look as bold as yours, (2), yes, I would consider doing this to my Rover, and (C), 2007 LR3 4.4 V8 SE Black & Tan. Nice job, still looking forward to a follow up on running it in to your cab and your connections and use while camping. p.s., looks like it could have been manufactured a little wider than it is for added benefit. Until then, keep well and take care, most importantly, Gob bless us all!

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Hi! Thanks for watching and the comments. :) I actually didn't run the cables for the solar into the cab...I hooked up the panel to my second battery and solar charge controller which were already under the hood. I do have cables going into the cab but it's wiring that I did about 5 years ago for lights, switches and the house 12v system. I'm probably going to do a full walk around on my rig pretty soon to show how I did everything before I make any changes. Planning on a new electrical, water and drawer system at some point next year so I definitely will cover what I like/dislike about my current setup and also to cover my plans for the future. :) stay tuned 😉

@phattdaddy2974 2 жыл бұрын

@@drawersystems I'm guessing that with the solar hood panel, I shouldn't need a dual battery system, I don't have a lot of items to keep running overnight, just a fridge. Looking forward to the other LR3 vids. Thx.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

It all depends on how much current you draw and how much sun can pump back into the battery. It would definitely be worth it to start with solar and test over the course of a week or 2 to determine how much your fridge and other power needs are and to see if the solar/alternator can keep up charging the starting battery. It’s a cheaper and easier option than a dual battery system and it might be enough. If you go this route make sure you have one of those battery jump packs on hand in case you run down the start battery.

@phattdaddy2974 2 жыл бұрын

@@drawersystems Right, I bought one of those jumpers that stated it would start my 4.4 V8, but it doesn't, I'll need to try another type, but good insurance for sure.

@davidbrady9686 2 жыл бұрын

Any thoughts of doing another video for longer term....Like the look but worried about the engine heat. 1971 Ford Bronco...thinking about it.

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Definitely. I want to do a more detailed review on the solar panel output. So far it’s been a great addition to my truck and it’s worked very well for me.

@starbubbli Ай бұрын

I have a ford e150 1999 I'm learning how to put a flexi 100 watt on my hood. It seems to me that hood gets hot and that heat will come through to the 100 watt panel and destroy it. I'm unsure of how to do this properly. Some say I can just put the 3M double sided tape on my van hood and panel and it would be fine. Hmmm. I'm doing my research! It's exciting but scary. lol. My van is my camper and I have 2,000 inverter! Great video!

@drawersystems Күн бұрын

Yes, the hood will get hot from both the engine and the sun. I put the vinyl down to make it easier to remove the panels in the event that they need replacing or I switch vehicles.

@johnnyc2003 2 жыл бұрын

Great looking install! Would consider this as a replacement to my current 100W Renogy for sure…this has much more clean appearance. Looking forward to seeing this at Expo East!

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks brother, it definitely blends in with the look of the vehicle. Looking forward to eyeballing your setup at expo east as well!

@phattdaddy2974 2 жыл бұрын

Did you do a follow up on routing it inside your cab? Disco Rocks!

@briangoodwin655 7 ай бұрын

Great video, thanks! Where did you end up mounting the charge controller?

@drawersystems 7 ай бұрын

Thanks! I ended up mounting it in the driver footwell under the steering wheel. I'm getting ready to transfer the panel to a (new to me LR3) and will be doing a completely redesigned electrical system...improving on my current system. In the new system I will be running 10ga cable underneath and into the 3rd row area where i will be housing all the future electrical components. I'll have videos on it in the next few months.

@GHE2005 2 жыл бұрын

The heat from the engine will not damage the solar panel on the hood? Oh, I really like how thin & lightweight the solar panel is. I hv a Honda Element, I'm thinking maybe on my roof, the solar panel? What do u think, will it work? Adding a 15Amp fuse? How did u do that? Is that part in Amazon? I'm not sure what I think of how it looks on ur LR3? In real live view I could comment on the look, but good idea for dead space. Heat is my concern.

@25Johe 2 жыл бұрын

Looks good, yes I would put one on my LR3. How much did the panel cost.?

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks! The panel is $369 but you can get 10% off with code: “charactor”. Here is the link to the panel: www.lensunsolar.com/index.php?route=product/search&search=LR3%20

@user-re3lz4qm5z 2 жыл бұрын

If there is space you can put it into the air filter box

@HeatherFaraMS Жыл бұрын

I think the glare on the silver hood is impossible to drive with. Does the panel have glare issues?

@abedj1220 2 жыл бұрын

very nice job. Question. looks like around 8:54 the vinyl was trimmed. how did you trim the vinyl.

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Thanks! Yeah somehow we lost the video of the vinyl getting trimmed 😫 I used something on Amazon called "Knifeless Tape"...it was easy to use and worked great. amzn.to/3wQuUkT

@Christian76S Жыл бұрын

OB member :)

@GiselleTrujillo 2 жыл бұрын

I have the same vehicle you have.

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

🙌

@jiangsolar1497 2 жыл бұрын

Looks great, but still not thin enough

@BlockchainToTheFace 2 жыл бұрын

I wanted to see you cut that wrap on the hood. How fun was that?

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

I was so mad I lost the video on that…it was by far the best part of the whole thing!!! 🤣 #sosatisfying

@jeffengland8136 Жыл бұрын

Now that you've had this installed for a year, how is it holding up/working for you? Considering doing the same on my LR3 and curious if you'd do it again?

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Hi Jeff, I've had it connected in parallel with a 100w Renogy panel mounted on my roof rack...together I have been able to run my fridge 24/7 continuously even during the scorching summer heat in Miami. I'm planning on disconnecting the Renogy and doing some tests on the Lensun hood panel in a follow up year long review video. I actually bought another Lensun hood panel for my LR4 and planning on installing that one soon as well...so yes, I would do it again! ;)

@ptroman1 Жыл бұрын

I drive a LR3, yes I could see myself adding the panel. what sort of Money are we talking for the parts? Are you just talking charging your batteries or can I charge a fridge also?

@drawersystems Жыл бұрын

Hi, it really depends on the battery system. Probably the most cost effective and easiest install method would be to buy something like a Jackery 500 or an Ecoflow power generator which eliminates the need for a separate battery, solar controller, connections, etc. You can set it up to charge from the solar panel and also 12v from the vehicle, then use the power generator to run your fridge and other gadgets. All in you'd be somewhere in the $700-$1000 range if you keep the power system around 500 watts.

@carlosleon1162 2 жыл бұрын

BMW 318is 1991...u think the may one solar panel?

@PoliceOneSwitzerland 2 жыл бұрын

Question.. to which Battery it should connected. The Starter-battery or the second battery. What is the difference ?

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

Theoretically you could connect to either or however in my case I connect to the second battery which is isolated from the starting battery with a True Marine battery isolator. The cool thing that I have found is that when my starting battery is fully charged, it activates the battery isolator and then sends solar power to the starting battery as well! It's great because both of my batteries are always getting a charge. Also for reference, I run my fridge, lights and all 12v and USB ports off the second battery so the starting battery remains untouched.

@SteeleFalcon Жыл бұрын

would be nice4 with some logo in it

@terrencesturm3258 4 ай бұрын

Do you see a reduction in glare off the hood by adding the solar panel? Do you see any glare off the solar panel?

@drawersystems Ай бұрын

Honestly I never noticed a glare before so not really. I love having the solar panel here though!

@koolkiwikat 2 жыл бұрын

where is the power test to show the real output?

@TheMizarc1 2 жыл бұрын

How much flex can you achieve out of the panel?

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

“Flexible” solar panels can take a small amount of flex, like the curve of a vehicle hood. My advice is to minimize the amount of bending or you risk damaging the internal circuits of the panel.

@oscarapple1365 2 жыл бұрын

How efficient is the panel?

@drawersystems 2 жыл бұрын

I have it connected in parallel with another panel so I haven't actually tested it solo. I did purchase another one and will be installing on my LR4...I'll be doing tests on it connected to a Goal Zero 500x. Video should be coming out in the next month or so.