Hello Group,
I just finished converting a 1970 VW Bug to electric, and am now gearing up for an electric motorcycle conversion. I wanted to ask all those out there who have EMs, what Balance Of System components they use on their EMs. For example, on my car I have a fuse, circuit breaker, DC converter, 12V accessory battery (charged by the DC converter), main contactor, Powercheq modules to keep the batteries balanced, controller enable switch (microswitch on the throttle pot), ammeter (using a shunt), and voltmeter. I realize an EM system could be simpler. I'd like to ask the following questions to those who have EMs and hope you could answer back to the list: Do you use a contactor controlled by the keyswitch to "turn on" you EM? If not, how do you "turn on" your EM? Do you use a fuse AND circuit breaker, or just a fuse? Do you have a 12V accessory battery to run the lights? Do you use a DC converter to step down the main pack voltage to charge the 12V battery? What instruments do you use (voltmeter, ammeter, etc.)? Do you use a separate switch to enable the controller? How do you keep your batteries balanced (assuming you use sealed batts)? I appreciate anyone who could respond. Thanks, Jonathan B.
