Solar panel mount for Altamonte awning sold at Bunnings

If you are looking to power an active cooling system for your inverter (like my Fox ESS Fan Mounts), these brackets allow you to mount small solar panels directly to the arms of the popular Altamonte awning range from Bunnings. The base of the mount is specifically curved to match the profile of the awning arms for a flush, secure fit with adhesive tape. 

Versions available

I have provided three versions of the mount to suit whatever hardware you have on hand:

1. M5 with heatset inserts: For those who want the most robust, repeatable connection. This uses a 6mm wide by 3-5mm deep heatset insert. 

2. M5 direct thread: No inserts required; bolt threads directly into the plastic or uses a nut.

3. M4 direct thread: A lighter-weight version for M4 hardware.

I've only tested the M5 with heatset inserts - let me know if M5/M4 direct thread tolerances are off please!

Hardware

• Bolts: 4x bolts: 2 mounts with 2x bolts per mount (M4 or M5 depending on the version printed)

• Length: 6mm to 10mm length usually works best, though this depends entirely on the thickness of your solar panel. I used 8mm with a washer. 

• Attachment: I recommend using heavy duty outdoor double-sided tape (like 3M VHB)

I used the solar panel and fans from this listing, but it's likely compatible with many other listings too, provided they have spacing of 87.5mm between holes. 

Printing recommendations

• Material: I printed mine in ASA for maximum UV resistance since they sit in direct sunlight. However, PETG will also work well in this application as the mounts are somewhat shielded by the panel itself and don't contact high-heat surfaces.

• Infill: 15-30%

• Walls: 3-4 wall loops to ensure the bolt holes/insert areas are solid especially with the heatset variant.