A positioning system for a solar panel includes a frame, a surface plate, an adjustable rail and a frame coupling. The surface plate is configured to secure the positioning system to a mounting surface and includes a connection for an axle. The axle links the surface plate with the frame coupling or with the adjustable rail. The frame coupling attaches to the frame and holds the frame in an operating position. A length of the adjustable rail may be increased or decreased for varying the angular orientation of the frame relative to the mounting surface. The frame is configured to be removable from the frame coupling without requiring the surface plate to be removed from the mounting surface.