Day 365...
At long last Jaydens Jeep (The Sarge) is done! As it turns out the
stock pinions do not fit the Traxxas motors however if you know what you
are looking for pinions are easy to find on any hobby website. The new
motors were installed and she runs great once again.
Be weary if you ever intend to build one of these that 4 electric motors wired together in any way eat electrical components. The combined 4 motors have a total draw of 40 amps (10a each). At start-up they can often peak at over 60 amps. WOW! Thats a powerful little jeep. 480w of power whitch is about equal to an electric moped scooter.
After frying 4 automotive relays, 4 25a industrial relays, and all the stock power wheels switches It became apparent that motor power is much different than other power. Even The 10-15 amp draw of each motor was enough to instantly fry 30a components.
Attempt #5 of re-wiring left the only solution. A wiring system using 4 automotive solenoids. $60 worth of solenoids seemed a bit ridiculous to run a little kids toy but i guess it was the only option left before going to a PWM speed controller.
I also decided it was in need of a lift kit. Sarge now rides on a 1.5" lift and steering extension. I cut 1.5" lengths of tubing and
fitted them on the mounting posts between the axles and the frame to
give it a lift similar to a suspension lift as opposed to a body lift. Many people will try to give there power wheels a 6" lift or so... While that might look great on your real truck it looks ridiculous on a little power wheels especially when larger tires ARE NOT available. A tasteful little lift is all that required to make it look like a big beast.
No pics for now but I will try to get a video on here so you can all see it in action.
