# Do It Yourself (DIY) **URL:** https://community.electricforum.com/c/electric-vehicle-diy-forum/147.md?page=4 [Latest](https://community.electricforum.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.electricforum.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.electricforum.com/tags.md) **Page:** 5 --- ## [VW Bug low voltage system on solar?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/vw-bug-low-voltage-system-on-solar/1112)
**Author:** [@Pressly](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Pressly)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [February 11, 2009, 10:50pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/vw-bug-low-voltage-system-on-solar/1112 "2009-02-11T22:50:34Z")
I recently bought a 66 bug conversion with no electrical to speak of for the lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals, wipers etc). I am trying to figure out how to go with this. I've thus far learned it needs to be … --- ## [Required wire size?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/required-wire-size/1076)
**Author:** [@namenerb](https://community.electricforum.com/u/namenerb)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [January 23, 2009, 7:11am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/required-wire-size/1076 "2009-01-23T07:11:54Z")
Hello, Just starting to think about what size battery supply cables I need, and could use some experienced advice. :slight\_smile: My system is 72 Volt with 10 hp continuous, 45 hp. peak. If my calculations are correct… --- ## [Hybrid Battery Setup](https://community.electricforum.com/t/hybrid-battery-setup/1090)
**Author:** [@lifeinhd](https://community.electricforum.com/u/lifeinhd)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [January 4, 2009, 6:32pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/hybrid-battery-setup/1090 "2009-01-04T18:32:26Z")
Okay, here's my idea, but I don't know if it would work. Have two separate strings of batteries, each consisting of 12 12-volt batteries, a controller and motor both able to handle from 144 to 288 volts, and a charger … --- ## [Wiring shifter idea](https://community.electricforum.com/t/wiring-shifter-idea/1069)
**Author:** [@Joe\_Oh](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Joe_Oh)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [December 3, 2008, 10:50am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/wiring-shifter-idea/1069 "2008-12-03T10:50:37Z")
I know that dc-dc converters used as transmissions are expensive. So I thought of an idea that works like this as a mock manual transmission to gain better high end speed without a fancy gearing system. For example, I … --- ## [Are there controllers to separately control 2 wheels, like a skid steer?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/are-there-controllers-to-separately-control-2-wheels-like-a-skid-steer/1034)
**Author:** [@oregonbolens](https://community.electricforum.com/u/oregonbolens)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [November 26, 2008, 11:47am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/are-there-controllers-to-separately-control-2-wheels-like-a-skid-steer/1034 "2008-11-26T11:47:19Z")
I want to build a vehicle that has 2 rear motors with steering control like a skid steer. I am wondering if anyone makes and sells a controller for this purpose or if I would have to buy 2 controllers and wire them to se… --- ## [Looking for 10 Hp. AC system](https://community.electricforum.com/t/looking-for-10-hp-ac-system/980)
**Author:** [@namenerb](https://community.electricforum.com/u/namenerb)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [November 17, 2008, 8:48am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/looking-for-10-hp-ac-system/980 "2008-11-17T08:48:02Z")
Hello, just joined the forum. I'm going to wing a little project and have been looking at DC systems. Before I go ahead and order the DC stuff, does anyone know of any small AC motors and controllers w/regen that are a… --- ## [Sunrise EV2 kitcar needs your help](https://community.electricforum.com/t/sunrise-ev2-kitcar-needs-your-help/5379)
**Author:** [@Chris](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Chris)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [September 21, 2008, 10:34am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/sunrise-ev2-kitcar-needs-your-help/5379 "2008-09-21T10:34:41Z")
I came across this company that tries to resurrect the Sunrise EV2 by Solectria Corp. as a kitcar. http://www.sunrise-ev.com/ They are in need of expertise and a helping hand though. Anybody who is interested in bui… --- ## [Do you need diode across motor?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/do-you-need-diode-across-motor/947)
**Author:** [@Qmavam](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Qmavam)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [September 1, 2008, 8:22am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/do-you-need-diode-across-motor/947 "2008-09-01T08:22:16Z")
I'm building an electric go kart, using an Alltrax controller. Does a diode need to be installed (reverse biased) across the motor? Qmavam --- ## [Looking for help/advice for my mid-engine "locust" electric car build!](https://community.electricforum.com/t/looking-for-help-advice-for-my-mid-engine-locust-electric-car-build/898)
**Author:** [@Motorsport\_E](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Motorsport_E)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [August 26, 2008, 11:19am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/looking-for-help-advice-for-my-mid-engine-locust-electric-car-build/898 "2008-08-26T11:19:12Z")
First, the fun part... the car. It's a custom built mid-engine vehicle with the general chassis design based off a "locust" custom/kit car. Mine has been lenthened and widened for purposes of comfort and design of the bo… --- ## [Dc motor](https://community.electricforum.com/t/dc-motor/919)
**Author:** [@csablack1](https://community.electricforum.com/u/csablack1)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [August 20, 2008, 8:31am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/dc-motor/919 "2008-08-20T08:31:58Z")
what would be the best dc motor to use for a conversion? the car weighs a little over 2000 plbs. a model number for the motor would be nice, but any info is helpful. thanx! --- ## [Motor power](https://community.electricforum.com/t/motor-power/897)
**Author:** [@bdeck](https://community.electricforum.com/u/bdeck)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2008, 10:50am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/motor-power/897 "2008-08-13T10:50:50Z")
Many conversions I’ve read about talk about how fewer gears are needed with an EV motor – often just two. But, electric motors are most efficient at the upper end of their speed rating. If you run an electric motor at… --- ## [A question on D&D motors](https://community.electricforum.com/t/a-question-on-d-d-motors/894)
**Author:** [@Joe\_Oh](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Joe_Oh)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [August 8, 2008, 9:44pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/a-question-on-d-d-motors/894 "2008-08-08T21:44:46Z")
I was wondering about the D&D motors that are seperatly excited. Apparently some of the D&D's dont use perm magnets. They use feild coils to generate the magnetic field that the armature uses to move. Is that configurati… --- ## [Physical grouping of components](https://community.electricforum.com/t/physical-grouping-of-components/896)
**Author:** [@dtbaker](https://community.electricforum.com/u/dtbaker)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [August 8, 2008, 2:38pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/physical-grouping-of-components/896 "2008-08-08T14:38:58Z")
I have schematics that came with kit from KTA-ev.com, but no detailed instructions on best grouping of components. I know the controller gets hot and needs to be mounted on AL plate.... anything else? Does the DC-DC conv… --- ## [Possibly a long shot, but a hybrid option](https://community.electricforum.com/t/possibly-a-long-shot-but-a-hybrid-option/893)
**Author:** [@bdeck](https://community.electricforum.com/u/bdeck)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [August 8, 2008, 10:00am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/possibly-a-long-shot-but-a-hybrid-option/893 "2008-08-08T10:00:21Z")
I spoke with the engineer who helped design the generator for the car in this book: http://www.megawattmotorworks.com/display.asp?dismode=article&artid=374 He said the hybrid generator system they designed fit under th… --- ## [Battery question](https://community.electricforum.com/t/battery-question/874)
**Author:** [@Telco](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Telco)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [August 8, 2008, 8:47am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/battery-question/874 "2008-08-08T08:47:11Z")
Since EVs that are converted need to have 12V for the vehicle systems that are not replaced, I've seen several suggestions on how to get there. There is one that I've seen used in military vehicles (did a year in the Gu… --- ## [General enquiry: EV kit cars abroad](https://community.electricforum.com/t/general-enquiry-ev-kit-cars-abroad/888)
**Author:** [@maurice\_drews](https://community.electricforum.com/u/maurice_drews)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [August 6, 2008, 11:18pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/general-enquiry-ev-kit-cars-abroad/888 "2008-08-06T23:18:50Z")
I've just found this forum after surfing about the net and reading some of the basics on the EV topic. Now I was wondering if anyone can help me with some sound advice. I'm in Panama and I'd love to build my own electr… --- ## [36vdc Motor Questions](https://community.electricforum.com/t/36vdc-motor-questions/881)
**Author:** [@parker](https://community.electricforum.com/u/parker)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [August 3, 2008, 7:19pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/36vdc-motor-questions/881 "2008-08-03T19:19:27Z")
Okay I have found a old Lektro Forklift that is for sale. From my research I believe that it would have a 36vdc motor. I'm wondering if this motor and controller would be worth salvaging from this forklift and use on a E… --- ## [Magnet motor to charge batteries](https://community.electricforum.com/t/magnet-motor-to-charge-batteries/856)
**Author:** [@ddoyel](https://community.electricforum.com/u/ddoyel)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [August 3, 2008, 6:05am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/magnet-motor-to-charge-batteries/856 "2008-08-03T06:05:23Z")
\[ame\]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jt5z8L4LBJE&feature=related\[/ame\] --- ## [Contemplating a DIY hybrid](https://community.electricforum.com/t/contemplating-a-diy-hybrid/829)
**Author:** [@bdeck](https://community.electricforum.com/u/bdeck)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [August 2, 2008, 8:21am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/contemplating-a-diy-hybrid/829 "2008-08-02T08:21:44Z")
Hi all, I'm new, and in reading up on batteries it seems to me that options and price likely will change significantly in coming years. So, what I have in mind is an EV with limited battery storage (say, enough for 10 to… --- ## [Carging system](https://community.electricforum.com/t/carging-system/870)
**Author:** [@U4edot](https://community.electricforum.com/u/U4edot)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [August 1, 2008, 6:39pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/carging-system/870 "2008-08-01T18:39:45Z")
OK I've had a thought Is it possible to charge a 72v system with a 36v charger. I know we could unhook the battery series in the middle, and wire them in parallel to charge it that way. However that thats allot to do e… --- ## [Motorcycle engine as an ICE range extender?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/motorcycle-engine-as-an-ice-range-extender/844)
**Author:** [@bdeck](https://community.electricforum.com/u/bdeck)\ **Replies:** 20\ **Last updated:** [July 31, 2008, 1:40pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/motorcycle-engine-as-an-ice-range-extender/844 "2008-07-31T13:40:27Z")
I've been converted to the school of thought that an ICE range extender should mechanically drive the wheels instead of generating electricity. So, has anyone employed a motorcycle engine for such a purpose? I'm thinking… --- ## [The rig I will build...when I get the cash!](https://community.electricforum.com/t/the-rig-i-will-build-when-i-get-the-cash/858)
**Author:** [@Joe\_Oh](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Joe_Oh)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [July 30, 2008, 2:24pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/the-rig-i-will-build-when-i-get-the-cash/858 "2008-07-30T14:24:55Z")
What do you all think of this setup? Five 12volt 100AH AGM Deep-Cycle batteries - http://www.nationalsolarsupply.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=177 The large E-Tek Motor - http://www.electricmotorsport.com/… --- ## [Ventilation, Cooling and Lubrication](https://community.electricforum.com/t/ventilation-cooling-and-lubrication/834)
**Author:** [@Big-Foot](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Big-Foot)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [July 27, 2008, 7:17pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/ventilation-cooling-and-lubrication/834 "2008-07-27T19:17:27Z")
Has anyone given any great consideration to Ventilation, Cooling systems and Lubrication? In particular I am curious about; 1) Ventilation of the battery compartments 2) Cooling of the electric motor(s) 3) Lubri… --- ## [Can someone enlighten me on power requirements?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/can-someone-enlighten-me-on-power-requirements/839)
**Author:** [@bdeck](https://community.electricforum.com/u/bdeck)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [July 27, 2008, 4:08pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/can-someone-enlighten-me-on-power-requirements/839 "2008-07-27T16:08:29Z")
I'm a non-engineering background newb trying to understand power demands for motors. Any aid would be much appreciated. (I'm not shopping providers right now, only trying to understand the way specs are presented.) So ..… --- ## [Electric go-kart](https://community.electricforum.com/t/electric-go-kart/855)
**Author:** [@jaska](https://community.electricforum.com/u/jaska)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [July 26, 2008, 2:28pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/electric-go-kart/855 "2008-07-26T14:28:30Z")
Figured this would be the right section for an electric go-kart discussion. Now to the subject. We are looking to build an electric go-kart mostly for promotional purpose and we're looking for some advice in component … --- ## [Hypothetical Scenario](https://community.electricforum.com/t/hypothetical-scenario/836)
**Author:** [@U4edot](https://community.electricforum.com/u/U4edot)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [July 21, 2008, 10:53am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/hypothetical-scenario/836 "2008-07-21T10:53:00Z")
All of my equations and coefficients came from the book "Build Your Own Electric Vehicle" by Bob Brant (If you wanted to know) I'm trying to calculate the amp draw for a hypothetical scenario for a car that should weig… --- ## [Tires](https://community.electricforum.com/t/tires/831)
**Author:** [@Tom\_Thomson](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Tom_Thomson)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [July 17, 2008, 1:29pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/tires/831 "2008-07-17T13:29:27Z")
Has anyone tried the Michelin "Exalta AS" low rolling resistance tires? tommyt --- ## [Is anyone using Regenerative Braking with a DC motor?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/is-anyone-using-regenerative-braking-with-a-dc-motor/799)
**Author:** [@Chris\_Wright](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Chris_Wright)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [July 6, 2008, 12:20am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/is-anyone-using-regenerative-braking-with-a-dc-motor/799 "2008-07-06T00:20:23Z")
I guess it fell out of favor because of the added complexity and the limited amount of charge the batteries will actually take in a short amount of time. Now the idea is to use a bank of capacitors that will hold the lar… --- ## [Increase range by putting batts in parallel?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/increase-range-by-putting-batts-in-parallel/679)
**Author:** [@courtney2018](https://community.electricforum.com/u/courtney2018)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [July 3, 2008, 4:05pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/increase-range-by-putting-batts-in-parallel/679 "2008-07-03T16:05:50Z")
Hi all, I'm totally new with the whole EV idea. I did some research a while back and now that gas is going back up I'm back on the idea of maybe converting a junker over to electric. I've been looking at motors, kits,… --- ## [120 Volt Charger for Under $100 possible?](https://community.electricforum.com/t/120-volt-charger-for-under-100-possible/739)
**Author:** [@Turbotom](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Turbotom)\ **Replies:** 19\ **Last updated:** [July 2, 2008, 7:29pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/120-volt-charger-for-under-100-possible/739 "2008-07-02T19:29:19Z")
Since this is my first post I would like to introduce myself. I am an engineer working in northern Michigan, my degree is in mechainal engineering but I was a mechanic way before I was an engineer. I sand drag race in … [Previous page](https://community.electricforum.com/c/electric-vehicle-diy-forum/147.md?page=3) [Next page](https://community.electricforum.com/c/electric-vehicle-diy-forum/147.md?page=5)