We are seeing many more sustained/longer lasting named storms around the world - both frequency and intensity have increased in the last 12 months with an unprecedented 9 severe storms occurring since September 2023. These storms can lead to prolonged vibration. We suggest checking it over after each storm, making sure it is stable and tightening any bolts as required.
We recommend attaching the longer extension rod to turn the panels to the horizontal if high winds are expected - gusting over 60 miles per hour or sustained strong winds, and turning the system off preferably facing the noon position.
We suggest you practice this before there is any hint of a storm so you are able to do it when necessary. Make sure you have greased all the clevis joints in advance so you can take them apart with ease. To attach the extension rod, remove the split pin with pliers to allow the central pin in the clevis joint nearest to the aluminium frame to be knocked through/removed. Undo and remove clevis joint, and add the extension rod with the coupling nut as illustrated and reattach clevis joint to the end. Reattach to the angle rod support with pin and split pin. Make sure someone/you are holding the panel frame as you undo the clevis joint and add the extension rod. Ensure all panel clamps are tightened.
When the wind dies down, the extension rod can be removed leaving the short rod in place.
If you are in a windy location, when installing your system apply thread-locking fluid as advised on page 12 of the assembly guide.
We recommend attaching the longer extension rod to turn the panels to the horizontal if high winds are expected - gusting over 60 miles per hour or sustained strong winds, and turning the system off preferably facing the noon position.
We suggest you practice this before there is any hint of a storm so you are able to do it when necessary. Make sure you have greased all the clevis joints in advance so you can take them apart with ease. To attach the extension rod, remove the split pin with pliers to allow the central pin in the clevis joint nearest to the aluminium frame to be knocked through/removed. Undo and remove clevis joint, and add the extension rod with the coupling nut as illustrated and reattach clevis joint to the end. Reattach to the angle rod support with pin and split pin. Make sure someone/you are holding the panel frame as you undo the clevis joint and add the extension rod. Ensure all panel clamps are tightened.
When the wind dies down, the extension rod can be removed leaving the short rod in place.
If you are in a windy location, when installing your system apply thread-locking fluid as advised on page 12 of the assembly guide.
Wind information
1. Clevis joint closeup showing split pin, 2. extension rod in position, 3. panels turned to the horizontal.
NEW - Video of putting the system back to the vertical from the horizontal wind safe position. We will upload a video of adding the extension rod to turn the system vertical shortly.