September 8, 2007 by Rob.

The RAVolt’s original owners (aka my in-laws) were in town for a surprise party for Laura.  They got see the “improvements” to their RAV4 and take a drive.  I felt a sense of closure showing it off to them - they have fond memories of their 10 years with the RAV4 and seem happy that it has a new life ahead of it.

I have plenty of pictures of Laura’s party, but I forgot to get a picture of my ILs with the RAVolt

Posted in Storyline | 1 Comment »

September 8, 2007 by Rob.

I finally had a chance to wire a high pedal bypass switch.  This switch overrides the high pedal relay for my positive contactor.  Now I can flip the switch while I’m on a hill and keep power flowing to the controller.  When the switch is off the relay works just like before.  I’m only expecting to use this occasionally.

I realize this is not as safe because the controller will stay energized if the key is turned, but it keep me from rolling back on hills.  It was getting stressful playing games with the parking brake when rushing to get through hilly lights on Bee Cave and on 360.

My next mini-project: installing a real charger for the auxiliary battery instead of the wimpy 15 volt Radio Shack supply I had been using.

Posted in Safety, Improvements | No Comments »

September 8, 2007 by Rob.

Today was battery watering day.  I was surprised to see that the 72 (6×12) cells drank over a gallon of distilled H20 in August.  I’m trying not to drive the cells and I don’t smell much sulfur gas after charging so I’m assuming that water loss is from evaporation due to the heat.

I know that the cells are pretty hot because my charger has temperature sensor.  The charger beeps out the “too hot” code if I charge too soon after driving my commute or during the daytime.  I’m glad that EVAmerica thought to include the temp sensor in my order!

Posted in Daily Use | 1 Comment »