Sparkfire, Bottomfeeder's build

Bottomfeeder · #1 10-01-2008, 04:31 PM

Hello,

After months of body work and waiting for parts to arrive, I am finally ready to begin putting EV parts into my vehicle. Inspired by Brian's useful build thread, I decided to start my own. Please feel free to add any comments, praising, chastising, heckling, or questions.

I am starting with a 1965 (really made in '64) Triumph Spitfire as the donor. For Spitfire aficionados it is a Mk I. I've always wanted a tiny sports car, and once I learned that they were great for EV conversions I bought it and got started on my project.

I might as well start with the schematic. I'm sorry if it's confusing or busy. I'm not very good with drawing schematics, and it shows. Here's a photo. I hope it comes out clear enough to figure out what's going on. There are few parts still undone. The fuse will actually be in the middle of the pack so when it blows I'll have two 60V packs instead of one 120V. Let me know if you have any feedback.

TX_Dj · #2 10-01-2008, 05:09 PM

Nice to see on your schematic that the "OIL" light will remain dim...

That may be a first for an old triumph.

Eager to see more on your progress. Keep us posted!

Bottomfeeder · #3 10-01-2008, 06:30 PM

Actually the OIL light will eventually be utilized. I'm not sure exactly what, but it will be some sort of warning light for a problem. Low voltage on one battery? High temperature? Perhaps it will function like a Check Engine Light and only alert me of a problem, but it would still be up to me to diagnose.

I'm trying to use all of the lights and gauges on the dash. It would bother me to have a dead gas gauge, right next to the digital state of charge meter that I installed myself. I found gauges that will replace the fuel and temp gauges with SOC and Amps. These old dash boards are exceedingly simple though, so changing them out is no problem. I'm trying to keep the 60's feel of the car intact. I may have to get a modern stereo, but one always has to make sacrifices.

PatricioIN · #4 10-01-2008, 06:32 PM

looks fantastic actually.. I have NO IDEA how to do a wiring diagram... so mine will probably be all in my head!

TX_Dj · #5 10-01-2008, 06:39 PM

Bottomfeeder,

Ah, see I mentioned the OIL light because I thought it was odd you showed it on your distribution block, but with nothing. Now that answers it!

Is your gas gauge mechanical or electric? If it's electric, and if you can figure out what it takes to generate empty-to-full, you could control it as an SOC meter.. or repurpose it as an ammeter or similar.

Bottomfeeder · #6 10-01-2008, 06:52 PM

PatricioIN,

I used Visio at work (Shhh, don't tell the bosses). It's pretty time consuming, but I wanted something to reference while I'm doing this. I'm working with a mechanic on this (his help with restoring this old car was invaluable) and we need to be on the same page. Otherwise I'd keep the schematic in my head like most everyone else.

Dj,

I've already ordered gauges from Westach. They had exactly what I was looking for: chrome bezel (to match the speedo and tach), upside down for easy visability and the right ranges of voltages and amps. They are on their way to my house right now, so I'm hoping they are as good as they sound.

rctous · #7 10-01-2008, 07:15 PM

what size batteries (in AH ) do you plan to use?

Brian

Bottomfeeder · #8 10-01-2008, 07:22 PM

I'm pretty sure that I'll be using 10 T-1275 batteries.

They claim 150 AH at the 20h rate. That'd be plenty for this small car.

rctous · #9 10-01-2008, 07:37 PM

I ask again because of the chargers I assure you you will have issues unless you send them in to the manufacturer and have them dial them in for that specific battery and AH rating, you have the time now to do it,, if you do not do it now you will be waiting later while they have them later,, do not skip this step trust me call me and I will give you the details

Brian

Bottomfeeder · #10 10-02-2008, 01:06 AM

That's a good idea, Brian. Expect a call tomorrow during the day. I'll get the factory information and give them a call. I just wish I didn't throw away the box that all of the controllers came in.

In a bout of parental pride, I'm including the picture of my new motor's first glimpse outside of his shipping box.