Solar panel brackets

[Scott'n'Wendy]

Use aluminum unistrut and once you lay out your lengths of unistrut, mark the roof and put down a 3" wide strip of Durabond RV roof repair tape under each length of strut. This will help protect the roof membrane. You can also notch the side rails of the strut and slightly bend it to match the contour of your rooftop. They also make stainless steel spring nuts for the unistrut but they can be pricey.

Sounds like a good plan

 

[Sportzfann]

I read on this forum and others that z brackets, channel rails, AM solar brackest are all used. Am I right to assume it really is a matter of preference?

I will be installing 8 Eco Worthy 195W panels on my 397. Z brackets seem to be the easiest way to install but I would think they would create a challenge should one of the panels need to be removed for any reason (would need to be removed from the roof screws as it would be difficult to remove the screw from the panel given the limited clearance).

Are L brackets commonly used?

Elios Solar Racking Aluminium L Foot Bracket

**Only the L foot - The long bolt is not included. Used when installing photovoltaic systems, this essential component ensures that the solar panels are properly attached to the racks.

volts.ca

Oldcow

I recommend the unistrut also, I installed mine with VHB tape and screws into the truss. I was able to add tilting brackets later on, with no Trouble at all.
I can clean below them also or change out a panel if needed, without adding more holes in the roof. The strut gives you options.

 

[COGrandDes]

For my installation, I used Z brackets. These were good. First I attached them to the panels, then used the self-tapping bolts to attach them to the roof. I would have to remove the bracket if work needed to be done since the bolts securing the brackets to the panels aren't accessible now.

I also installed my (8) panels the same way that Soundsailor did and they work great. If you use the butyl and eternabond tape with the right screws....it's very securely fastened and is easily removed if needed. I've already removed my factory panel to add more of my new panels and it took 5 mins to remove the factory which was fastened the way I noted above. I just followed the simple way that's used by the RV manufacturers and it works and is easy. The panels are very secure. There is no flex or concerns of them coming off while driving if you follow this method.