Ian and Kathleen

Thanks for some great points, Russ.

Hi David, hope you didn't mind me using part of your previous reply as a quote. It was aimed at getting a few more replies. And yes I would agree with all of your three questions. I fail to understand how some of the vans survive short to medium term for power whilst free camping. Interestingly I am considering a 285 W trifold portable "Kyocera" panels around $799 on ebay. Thanks again for your input. Ian

Thanks for the replies. I am including a part of a reply to my original post: 130-140AH per day is not unreasonable - in fact, I think it is a bit optimistic. If you add another fridge to that and a computer, it will easily go over 200AH. Most people don't realise that. 500W of solar should replace around 150ah per day, so while it is sunny you should be OK. IMHO, 3 x 120AH batteries is nowhere near enough. SO, it would be interesting to know how many Kedron owners struggle with power reserves with a 215L fridge, TV lights etc and the standard 3 x 120 aH batteries and 3-4 x 140 W Kyocera panels. Fine while it is sunny, otherwise out with the gennie or onto 240v. Hopefully will stimulate a few more comments on power usage. Cheers, Ian

Thanks for all the previous replies. I am getting close to ordering my new XC-3. It seems that with large compressor fridges, all vans will be power rationing/watching with standard 3 AGM batteries and 3-4 x 140 W solar. My choices are: 1. Lithium batteries and large solar panel set up 2. 3 way fridge if Kedron can instal them to work properly 3. standard battery/solar setup with portable solar panels 4. smaller fridge like Vitifrigo 133 L fridge only and have small Waeco or equiv on a slide out under bed as a freezer. Have done the sums and should use about half the power of a Waeco 215L . We don't need a large power hungry fridge. I already run a 60 L Waeco in the tow vehicle. I am leaning towards the smaller fridge (even the Waeco CR140) with my 60L Waeco as the overflow fridge/freezer. I don't want to be constantly watching the battery monitor when free camping and respect other campers peace and quiet by not wanting a gennie running. All comments appreciated. Another question: How quiet are the Fantastic fan/vent over the bed at night whilst free camping? Regards, Ian

Thanks Chris, With the lithium batteries what did they cost? Supplier? It sounds like a portable 150-200 W panel would be a better option than installing another fixed 130-140 W (in place of the TV aerial). And I agree the roof top panels don't open get cleaned regularly. Cheers, Ian

Hi just researching the standard Kedron setup for 215/230 L compressor fridge of 3 x 120 aH batteries and 3 x 140 A Kyocera solar panels. My question is - does this system work in most circumstnces? How many days of rainy cloudy weather in warm climate till you get down below 50% SOC for the three batteries? I am really only asking the question after reading that 250 A solar per 100 aH battery is ideal. Furthermore has anyone ever had Kedron instal the batteries under the dinette seating (which is often a wasted space)? Any other suggestions would be welcome Regards, Ian

Sorry meant wanted XC-3 Ian

Hi anyone got a van for sale 18 - 19 footer? Or thinking of upgrading? Thanks Ian