Adding an additional solar panel to my camper - what do I need?

[MINO]

I have a Uni-Solar PVL-68 on my Phoenix Camper and would like to add an additional panel, bringing me to 136 watts - ish.
Aside from the panel, I'm assuming I just need a set of Y connectors to join the 2. However, I've come across articles mentioning diodes and junction boxes.

Just want to make sure I order all the correct parts and tools.

Thanks.

 

[oldnslow]

The Y connectors are all you need. Make sure your charge controller can handle 10 amps or more.

No diodes necessary, and a junction box isn't needed for only 2 panels.

 

[MINO]

Thanks!

I had a chance to take a closer look at the wiring and was disappointed with what I found.
The 10AWG leads from the panel have been cut and replaced with double strands of 16-18 gauge wire.

Although my total wattage is relatively low, aren't these a little anemic for efficient charging?
Maybe I'm overlooking some reasoning behind this.

 

[oldnslow]

I agree those wires are too small. A rule of thumb is when using 2 wires in parallel (I assume thats what you mean by "double strands") is that the effective wire is 3 gauges bigger. Two 16 AWG wires are effectively a 13 AWG wire, and two 18 AWG wires are 15 AWG.

I would recommend cutting the smaller wires off and splicing in 10 AWG wire. That will minimize your voltage loss, important for battery charging.

 

[G35Vortec454]

If I were you I'd leave the existing wiring and Y the new panel using the same size 16ga. Your panels will only be producing about 6-7 amps total, a "13ga" is plenty unless the length is way too long, 20ft or so.

 

[MINO]

Thanks guys! I installed the other panel and saw a max of 7amps using the wiring that was on there.
I think I'm going to upgrade all the power lines to 10awg anyway, not just for the solar but for the overall power needs in the camper.