Where have I been?

Sorry for no updates... I've been away for a month.

I'm now a soldier in the Australian Army.

But back on topic.. I'll be beginning to remove the engine soon and will post updates as I go.

I bought a welder!

Just purchased this:

Miller Diversion 165 AC DC TIG Welder

along with a pedal, cover, 3M auto helmet, some tig gloves and electrodes.
I can't wait until it arrives.

Electric Specs

Electric parts being used in this conversion (subject to change):

• Either Netgain Warp 9 or ADC FB1-4001 series DC motor (depending on space available)
• Zilla Z1K-LV speed controller
• 45 Sky Energy SE180AHA cells
  
• Elithion BMS
• MES-DEA 70/6E vacuum pump
• MES-DEA RM4 4Kw fluid heater
• Manzanita Micro PFC-30 charger

There are many other smaller parts but these are the main components.

Battery location

This car will become a 2 seater. This is because of the GVM limit. In Australia design rules specify that you need to allow 81.6kg per passenger. This is made up of 68kg for the passenger and 13.6kg for their luggage. With the added weight of batteries I can only accommodate 2 passengers.

This means that I can utilise the rear seat space for batteries.
I've removed the spare wheel, jack, hatch cover, carpet and rear seats. As you can see the place where the rear seats were is in front of the rear axle. This is a great spot to place extra load.

My Electric Bike

You may have spotted a bike in the background of the previous photo.
I electrified it earlier this year and it will be appearing in a book about electric vehicles sometime next year.
More info at:
http://www.evalbum.com/2702

And if you want to convert your own bike I'd recommend
http://www.endless-sphere.com/forums/
for info, and:
http://www.ebikes.ca/
for buying parts

The Shed

This is the shed where the conversion will happen.
(once it has been cleaned and I've made room for the car, that is!)

Spoiler Removal

LED lights in spoiler weren't working so I've removed it and reconnected the original 3rd brake light behind the read window.

Removing the spoiler should help lower drag too which is a nice plus.
The holes were plugged with either a grommet or stainless hex bolt and nut with Mastik to prevent rust.

New tyres

The car needed new tyres to pass roadworthy so I bought some low rolling resistance tyres.
Michellin Energy XM1+ 195/60/14

Conversion Basics

I will be converting my 1996 Honda Integra to run on electricity.

I chose the Honda Integra for my conversion as a friend was selling one. I got it for a good price and it's in very good condition. Very tidy engine bay.. no oil to be seen! Kudos to my friend's upkeep and degreasing skills :)

Specs on the Honda Integra:

• 1996
• 2 door
• Tare weight 1115kg
• GVM 1500kg

Although it's a little heavier than the cars most people use to convert (Charades etc.) I believe it's a good choice because:

• It's still a lightweight car
• It has a good aerodynamic shape
• It is safer than most micro cars
• It is better built than the ultra-light micro cars
• It is a car I'm happy to be seen in!

PS - Yes, she needs a clean. There's a combination of dust, pollen and bird poo on her at the moment!