KandiVan
New member
What a great thread.
#1 - the rivnut reference above with rusted holes is due to the galvanic action between the aluminum rivnut and the steel body panel. Painting the hole before installing the rivnut would help but not likely eliminate the issue. I hoping it works well as I've used rivnuts for mounting 1 step.
#2 - So, I'm in here looking for 3M VHB testimonials, and (a type number) you have not disappointed! The post below from another site lead me to investigate some more: "We laid out the location of our panels in advance and used 3M VHB tape on the brackets to adhere them to the roof. Alternatively, you can drill holes into your roof, but this is much more time-consuming and unnecessary. Seal all brackets and your cable glands with dicor lap sealant to prevent water contamination. " This would mean only about 8 sq in of tape per panel! Since my panel bracket locations do not line up with the roof ribs, I'm considering a 1"x1" aluminum tube to bolt the panels to and then 3M VHB at every rib to mounting tube contact point fo about 12 sq in of tape per panel.
#1 - the rivnut reference above with rusted holes is due to the galvanic action between the aluminum rivnut and the steel body panel. Painting the hole before installing the rivnut would help but not likely eliminate the issue. I hoping it works well as I've used rivnuts for mounting 1 step.
#2 - So, I'm in here looking for 3M VHB testimonials, and (a type number) you have not disappointed! The post below from another site lead me to investigate some more: "We laid out the location of our panels in advance and used 3M VHB tape on the brackets to adhere them to the roof. Alternatively, you can drill holes into your roof, but this is much more time-consuming and unnecessary. Seal all brackets and your cable glands with dicor lap sealant to prevent water contamination. " This would mean only about 8 sq in of tape per panel! Since my panel bracket locations do not line up with the roof ribs, I'm considering a 1"x1" aluminum tube to bolt the panels to and then 3M VHB at every rib to mounting tube contact point fo about 12 sq in of tape per panel.