Looking for some advice and help. My boss bought two used Gem at an auction. All the batteries were shot so we bought a Six pack of batteries for it.
After we allowed it to charge we could hear a clicking sound coming from the motor and could see a spark. We googled the problem with very little help. After a little the clicking stopped and the sparks.
So this morning my Manager wanted to take the E4 to get some food he was about 200 yards away and the motor began to smoke and smelled of burning plastics. The speed went from 20 MPH to 10 MPH.
From what I have read sounds like we need to rebuild or buy a new motor? Where do you get them at and what about these heavy duty motors?
Any advice would help thanks!
If your motor is big and black with a stainless band cover around the brush end, (AMD 7hp) then the clicking was a common issue. Don’t toss this motor as it is one of the best ones you can have in there.
There is a temp sensor in that motor that has issues with it’s wiring breaking down after a while. The clicking is a pulsed little spark like you are trying to light your BBQ.
Solution is to unplug/bypass that sensor and run without. Just keep track of your motor temps manually. Normally these things don’t have an issue unless they are hot rodded, over geared, or having internal issues from an abusive PO. (dang kids!!)
Which brings us to your second issue.
the motor began to smoke and smelled of burning plastics.
This is not normal. Did you physically feel if the motor was overheated? This should not be the case if only run for 200 yds.
Most likely this motor has been sitting in one spot for a long time(they hate that). The brushes have a habit of sticking in there holders and when asked to finally run again they protest by throwing blue lightning, making sizzling bacon sounds, and sometimes can be smelled as ionized air.
If your continued to run it this way, it can damage the motor beyond repair and can also damage the controller (two expensive components).
It may also open up a time bubble and your Manager may be sent back in time.
Depending on your location, you may have someone that rebuilds these motors in your area. More expensive would be to ship this to one of the experts to freshen it up.
What is in your other cart? Motors usually can be swapped around (but if it was also sitting, it may have the same issue).
Thank you we will try that. We moved it this morning and we could hear what sounded like a playing card in the spokes of your bike.
Sounds like you’re dealing with a bit of a ride with those Gem cars.
First off, major kudos for getting those new batteries in – that’s a solid start. Now, about that clicking and sparking, followed by the smoking and smell – yikes! That’s definitely not what you want to see (or smell) happening.
From what you’ve described, it does sound like the motor might be toast. Rebuilding can sometimes be a cheaper option, but if the damage is extensive, a new motor might be the way to go. As for where to get them, you can check out places like eBay, Amazon, or even some specialized EV parts stores online. Just make sure to get one that’s compatible with your model.
And those heavy-duty motors? They can be a great upgrade if you’re looking for more reliability and power, but they can be a bit pricier. It might be worth it if you’re planning to use the Gem cars regularly.
Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local mechanic who has experience with electric vehicles. Sometimes a pro can diagnose things a lot faster and save you some headaches.
Hope this helps, and good luck getting those Gems back on the road!