[cbatsford]

My Cougar came with SolarFlex 200. Zamp 200 watt panel, 75/15 Victronenergy controller, standard lead battery. Prewired for converter.

I am looking to leg into the solar thing without going all out $$$ up front...a nice slow glide....so...

Based on my fridge (8ish amps) being the only real hurdle, I figure my first step/requirement for minimal boondocking is a 200 amp hr battery, with approx 400-600 total watts in panels (manual, mounted combo).

If I use a portable briefcase (assuming keep it w Zamp product) panel and plug into solar plug on side of unit, do I need to get one with a built in controller - or will the existing controller manage via the existing wiring? I.e. is the side plugin fully integrated into the controller? (Amps may be an issue adding more panels as current controller maxs out at 15)

I am also looking into AGM batteries, as I know this only works with enough battery.

Any recommendations are greatly appreciated.

Thanks.