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1Step 1: Electrical Setup
I chose DeWalt batteries because they were readily available, but other brand batteries will work as long as you ensure the correct voltage and compatible holders.
- My base model of the electric scooter is the GOTRAX GXL V2, which uses a 40V internal battery.
- I only had 20V DeWalt batteries, and stepping up the voltage with a converter wasn’t cost-efficient.
- Instead, I connected two DeWalt batteries in series to provide 40V. Each battery is rated for 20A, so current capacity is not a concern.
⚠️ Important: Check your scooter’s voltage and current requirements before starting.
To connect two batteries in series:
- Connect the positive terminal of one battery to the negative terminal of the other.
- Use the remaining terminals (one positive and one negative) as the output to your scooter.
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2Step 2: Planning the Build
Determine where to mount the batteries. Your chosen location should:
- Be accessible and convenient.
- Have pre-existing screw holes or a flat surface for secure mounting.
I mounted the batteries near the folding mechanism, as it was narrow and had two screw holes on each side. This area also keeps the batteries out of the way during rides.
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3Step 3: Handling the Internal Battery
Electric scooters often have their battery located in one of two places:
- Bottom Plate: Scooters with bottom-mounted batteries are easier to modify as they use standard power connectors.
- Vertical Tube: Scooters with tube-mounted batteries require additional work because removing the battery will also disconnect the motor from the mainboard.
Our Solution:
I chose to:
- Remove the battery cells and BMS (Battery Management System) from the internal battery pack but left the holder and motor wires intact.
🛠️ Tip: This allows the motor to stay connected to the mainboard while reusing the battery cells for other projects.
After removing the cells, reassemble the battery pack and place it back in the scooter to maintain the motor’s connection.
Here’s a helpful YouTube video that explains how to disassemble the GoTrax GXL V2 battery pack.
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4Step 4: 3D-Printing the New Battery Holder
- Download the DeWalt battery holder model file (attached).
- Open the file in your preferred 3D modeling software.
- Add at least two screw holes for secure mounting.
- Print the holder in PLA or another sturdy filament.
💡 Pro Tip: Adjust the model’s tolerances based on your 3D printer to ensure a snug fit for the DeWalt batteries.
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5Step 5: Assembling the Battery Holder
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7Step 7: Modifying the Internal Battery Circuit
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8Step 8: Test Your New Setup
Before riding, test the scooter:
- Ensure the batteries are properly seated in the holders.
- Check that all connections are secure and that there are no loose wires.
- Power on the scooter and verify the motor functions as expected.
And You’re Done!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully converted your electric scooter to run on DeWalt batteries. Enjoy your cost-efficient, eco-friendly ride!
🚴 Bonus Tip: Regularly check the connections and battery holders to ensure long-term reliability.
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9OPTIONAL: Cosmetics
Due to the season limit, I am not able to paint it the middle part in yellow in time and cut a DeWalt logo with a Cricut. But I will do that ASAP to complete the look!
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