Solar Cable Tangles

[Son_of_Norway]

Hello; I have two solar suitcase panels that I set outside the RV. I run an 8 gauge solar cable out to them. I have a couple of sets of cables so I can add length if I need to, for a total of about 20 feet. Of course, each cable has 2 cables, a + and a -. My problem is that is a lot of cable and gets tangled easily.

How can I combine the + and the -? I thought about plastic wire conduit but even 1/2" isn't big enough for two 8 gauge cables. I also considered just using pieces of electrical tape every couple of feet but the tape gets crappy after a while. What can I do to avoid a tangle?

Thanks for your ideas.

[Bert_the_Welder]

dedmiston wrote:
Zip ties? That's literally what they're for, right?

Yeah, but zip ties have that nub on them to get caught on everything, including your hand. And I've never had any, even the UV "safe" ones, that lasted in outside applications. But that's my experience.

[mobeewan]

3/4 inch plastic wire loom

Extension cord reel

[dedmiston]

Zip ties? That's literally what they're for, right?

[Bert_the_Welder]

Since we're tossing ideas around, and you already have your cables.... How bout sliding on some 1-2" sections of good quality heat shrink tube. Maybe every 3'? Fairly cheap and easy. Dunno if it would keep the twist out though, but just an idea to toss out.
TIG welding torch cables are often jacketed in a nylon or leather protector sleeve. Usually velcro along the edge. Maybe make a custom one from heavy vinyl tarp or sunbrella fabric. Or get all Gucci and go with Kevlar.... 😄
I've seen that 3M tape Bob mentioned and it does seem to have some pretty magical ability to stay good for a long time.

[beemerphile1]

Do you need 8g? How about a 12g extension cord?

Run high voltage from the panel and have the controller near the batteries.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

Use SOOW neoprene wire. Dual. Then interconnect with WEATHER PAK twin conductor unbreakable submersible connectors.

The SOOW wire remains limp as a cooked noodle at 0F

It isn't cheap. But it is fabulously easy to handle and store. I have SOOW that I purchased in the 1980s

No spool needed. Everything else I tried failed due to absurdly difficult handling problems. I do not need a 2-hour fight every time I go to unpack and stow.

[ndrorder]

Search amazon for braided wire loom - aka. snake skin. Sizes listed are minimum sizes. The loom will expand more than twice its diameter for installation. Then coil onto a small spool or reel.

[time2roll]

Need to pull the wire straight off the reel so there is no added twist.
If they need to be pared I would use zip ties.

[pianotuna]

Learn how to do an electricians storage for cable. Or learn to "fold" every second loop.

[CA_Traveler]

I've used 3M 35 red tape for 3 years to help located irrigation emiters in plants. Still looks good. Available in hardware strores in different colors to suit your needs.

[KD4UPL]

Either a split loom or a spiral wire loom would probably work well. These are often available at auto parts stores.

[Lwiddis]

Those must be big panels or far from the controller if you are using 8 gauge.”Tangles” are another reason for roof mounted panels.