July 5, 2007 by Rob.

The buzzing turn signal is caused because the flasher relay timer uses the resistance from the incandescent bulbs as part of the timing circuit (time = resistance * capacitance). The LEDs have a very different electrical characteristic so the timer does not work correctly. This was a clearly documented probability at the LED vendor’s web site.

The solution is to buy a replacement Flasher. I could not find the part # match: looking at the chart and actual relay I determined that the RAV’s replacement unit is CF13JL-02. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that this is the right $20 part to buy.

This blurry picture was taken blindly. It’s just below the steering column near the clutch peddle. The flasher (now buzzer) is the box on the right.

Posted in Parts, Pictures, Conversion, Planning | 2 Comments »

July 5, 2007 by Rob.

Working on the universally true assumption that everything works the first time, I happily connected all the wiring, relays, and fluid reservoir for the power steering (p/s) system. The electrical parts worked fine, but something is not sealed near the pump. The electrical test quickly demonstrated that the pump is very effective a moving fluid from the reservoir onto my driveway.

Unfortunately, the pump is located deep inside the engine compartment under the batteries, behind the motor, and above the right drive axle. Did I mention that the pump was inaccessible? Doh!

The RAVolt is drivable without p/s if you’ve got upper body strength; however, Laura is not buying the “RAVolt workout simple 10 step plan to awesome biceps for $19.99 in easy 5 installments.” That will have to go onto the punch list.

Posted in Improvements, Conversion, Planning | No Comments »