Tonight I have a new update for my trailer project. I successfully completed the installation of the roof rack that will hold the rooftop solar panels.
I started by determining the placement of the roof rack on the front of the trailer. To keep the mounting scheme fairly simple I'm choosing to use some U-bolts with a steel plate to attach the solar panel frame to the roof rack. For that reason I chose to place the roof rack at 37.5" from the front of the trailer. This will align the front of the frame with the solar panels on the side of the trailer.
This was set at 37.5" to allow for alignment with the panels on the side of the trailer. The frame I built has a 1" square tube set @ 36".
Using the remaining butyl tape I used 2 strips to back the roof rack mounts to ensure there will be no water penetration.
I used 2 pieces to span the surface of the mount in case I need to add reinforcement in the future.
I then determined the placement of the rear mount to be 23" from the rear of the trailer.
I had to mark and offset the original holes to be able to mount to the structural square tube of the trailer.
I pre-drilled some holes just above the previous holes from the manufacture to adapt to mounting on the trailer.
I drilled new pilot holes for the self tapping screws through the steel of the trailer.
Using a 5/16" hex drive I fastened the 3" stainless self tapping screws into the trailer.
The cross beam that connects both sides of the roof rack mount comes in 2 pieces and 1 fits inside the other.
I slid both sides into the female sections of the roof rack mounts. I set the cover piece on top of the side that needed it to help me persuade and ensure connection.
Using vice grips and an open end wrench I tightened the 3/8" bolts and nylock nuts that were provided in the kit. I was very happy that the company drilled the holes well to make assembly very easy.
To finish I measured and cut the covers for the front and rear sections of the roof rack system to 21.5".
I cut it using my miter saw.
I had to get creative at the very end to secure the center beam with 2 short self tapping screws. It was slightly longer than my reach on the ladder so I had to use my left hand and magnetize the screws with a powerful neyodidum magnet so it wouldn't fall out of my bit while drilling. It took a few attempts and some frustration, but I pulled it off!
View from my standpoint.
Success!
Thank you for your time if you checked out my new update!
Yours in liberty for a brighter future, may the great creator bless you and bring peace and joy within your hearts, Greg @makinstuff
