This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing the CH404 Solar Tracker on the roof of a dry van trailer. The CH404 comes with a solar panel pre-connected, simplifying the installation process.
The following details will help ensure that you get the best performance from the hardware.
About the CH404 CloudHawk Tracking Hardware
The following instructions are for installing the CH404 CloudHawk Tracker. The CH404 comes with a pre-wired solar panel, and supports wireless BLE sensors.
Things to Know Before You Get Started
- The CH404 hardware shipped to you has already been added to your Account.
Equipment Needed
- CH404 Solar Tracker with pre-connected solar panel
- Rivet gun
- 6 x 3/16 rivets
- Waterproof sealant
- Cleaning supplies (e.g., alcohol wipes)
- Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, etc.)
Safety Precautions
- Ensure you are equipped with proper safety gear.
- Work in dry weather conditions to avoid slip hazards.
- Be mindful of the height and ensure the roof of the trailer can support your weight safely.
Installation Steps
1. Positioning the Tracker and Solar Panel
- Locate the rear passenger side corner of the trailer's roof.
- Clean the area where the tracker and solar panel will be mounted using alcohol wipes to ensure a debris-free surface.
- Position the CH404 Solar Tracker and solar panel in the designated spot.
2. Securing with Rivets
- Mark the rivet points on the trailer roof through the mounting holes of the tracker and solar panel.
- Drill pilot holes at these marked points.
- Using a rivet gun, insert rivets through the mounting holes to securely attach the tracker and solar panel to the roof.
- Rivet all 4 corners of the solar panel and 2 corners of the GPS tracker.
3. Sealing for Waterproofing
- Once the tracker and panel are riveted in place, apply a waterproof sealant around each rivet head and along the edges of the tracker and solar panel base.
- Ensure the sealant is evenly distributed to avoid any potential leaks.
- Allow the sealant to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Final Inspection
- Check all rivets for firmness; none should be loose.
- Inspect the sealant around the rivets and edges for any gaps.
- Ensure the solar panel is free of any obstructions and is well-aligned to receive sunlight.
Connecting Wireless Sensors
The first installation step is to configure the sensor in the installer portal:
- Click “Add new sensor” at the bottom of the configuration page
- Select the type of sensor you are installing. Be sure the select the “Wireless” version for sensors that have both wired and wireless variants.
- Click on the Sensor ID field and select the sensor you are installing. You fill find this ID on a white label on the physical sensor. If you have a large number of sensors available in your account, you can use your browser’s Find function (usually Ctrl+F) to locate the correct ID.
- Fill in the “Name” field. Typically, customers use the location of the sensor as the name. For example, “Front” or “Trailer Door”
- Click “Save”.