Restoring an Abandoned Electric Scooter: From Scrap Yard to Street-Ready!

A bargain was found! A worn-out electric scooter was discovered at a recycling center for just $20. The scooter was missing crucial parts like the battery and controller, and its fairings were cracked and broken. However, it had an operational motor and electrical components, so it was decided to give it a second chance on the road.
After stripping the plastic parts, they were fixed with glue, fabricated some missing pieces, and then primed and painted. The frame was also cleaned and spray painted with zinc paint, and the scooter was reassembled with refreshed and repaired parts.
A new controller replaced the old, burned one, and a battery was assembled from an old, discarded hybrid car power battery. Instead of lithium chemistry, they opted for safer NiMH battery chemistry which was also free.
A charger/thermal control system was assembled under the seat to monitor and control the charging rate, maximum voltage, charge floating, and the battery's temperature during charging.
Most of the old and stiff switches were replaced with brand new ones, and the scooter's range was estimated to be about 30km with a maximum speed of 40km/h, according to GPS.
#restoration #electricscooter #diymechanic