[Updated 5/30/2021] Milwaukee M18 and an converted alternator

[LikeTheSandwich]

I'm working on my first build. I have an alternator from an old Dodge or Chrysler, I'm not sure (I got it for free from a friend) that was converted to run as a DC brushless motor. I have a hall effect throttle, 3x Milwaukee M18 batteries for 54V nominal, and a buck converter for the commutator.

[Update 12/27/2020]
So after that test, I've started some body work, but I've gotten the electronics figured out. Here's what I've got:

[Update 5/30/2021]
Well, that previous plastic box failed SUPER easy, so I have a much tougher container to house all the electronics, and the kart is complete, but unfinished. I haven't painted it yet, I need to modify a few parts, and I'm doing some additional electronics work on it. In the coming days I'll do some more videos to cover the completed kart. It's pretty nice so far!

 

[EpsilonZero]

Did you get the go-kart part yet? I'm sure we all want to see what this motor conversion can do.

 

[LikeTheSandwich]

Not yet. Garage is too full of stuff, could be weeks or months away still. :/

 

[EpsilonZero]

Not yet. Garage is too full of stuff, could be weeks or months away still. :/

Are you building a frame from scratch or do you have something else in mind?

 

[LikeTheSandwich]

I keep an eye out on case I see one for a good price, but what I have right now is a complete front end and rear end of a kid's ATV. If I don't find a good pre-built I'll build the main body and weld on the pieces I have.

 

[LikeTheSandwich]

*Bump because I'm updating this thread instead of starting a new one*

 

[ShadowNightmares]

Hey, nice to meet someone else that will use a converted alternator.
I would sincerely recommend you to check out these videos and think about installing hall sensors on your alternator

(from YT/Enrengineering)

(from YT/Electrojuanyu)

(from YT/Austiwawa)
Sensored BLDC motors can offer more torque at low speeds, and will help to avoid "cogging" while it tries to synchronize.

 

[LikeTheSandwich]

I'm very strongly considering that now. It looks simple and easy enough, and I actually have hall sensors laying around from a 5-pack I bought so I could measure its RPM. The only thing is that mine aren't latching, so I'm not sure if they'll work. I'll have to do a little more research.

 

[LikeTheSandwich]

Just had a very minor update at the bottom of the first post.

 

[ShadowNightmares]

Just had a very minor update at the bottom of the first post.

Already finished reading the update and i will wait for the videos