After a short break... (Feb-2013)
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| Gearbox - 4 speed rod-change synchro: Circa ~'84 The appendage on the front face is the differential. |
Time has finally freed enough to get moving again on the conversion. Carly and I picked up a gearbox last week that will be the foundation of the power-plant. With the flywheel cover serving as a mount for the electric motor, the existing transfer gears should work perfectly. There is plenty of room under the bonnet for the electric motor.
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| View of Flywheel cover |
Next steps:
1) Shaft adapter - The motor has a 7/8" key shafted and the primary gear (shown in photo above) for the transmission has a 1.5" bore. I'll be heading off the machine shop this week to get a custom adapter turned.
2) Motor Mount - Surprisingly, this does appear like it is going to be too tough. The flywheel housing should provide adequate support for a mounting plate (most likely 1/4" steel). Perfect alignment will be key.
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| Mars ME0913 Motor |
Motor selection has been going on for some some time. The Mars ME0913 looks to be the choice base on performance and cost. The car won't be a race-car, but it should be quite quick for around town driving. This motor will provide regenerative braking, which may provide a bit more range for the batteries
Still debating on which controller to use.
Comparing this motor the current engine in Jane, it comes out like:
ME0913 - Mini 998cc
- Peak Horsepower: 40 - 38 (@4750 rpm)
- Peak Torque (ft-lb) : 66 - 52 (@2700 rpm)
- Rated RPM: 3000 - 5000
- Weight (lbs): 35 - ??
If what the experts say is true, the electric should easy outperform the gas engine with its ability to provide full torque throughout the rpm range. The peak HP and Torque values are quoted for the electric at a 60 second limit due to thermals. When was the last time you need maximum power for more then 60 seconds? Nominal values are about 1/2 of the peak (16 hp & 33 ft-lbs continuous rating). With additional cooling, the motor should be able to deliver plenty of power.
