FAQs
This page is designed to give you generalized information on testing and troubleshooting that applies to a broad range of EVs. You should become familiar with general mechanical and EV safety procedures before working on your own vehicle. Failure to do so could result in damage and/or death.
What is a BMS?
A good BMS, or Battery Management System is one of the most critical components on your EV when it comes to performance and good battery life. An effective BMS can extend range up to 20% (depending on pack condition and age) and will extend the life of the average battery pack by 300%. Read more...
I want to install a BMS in my 72v EV, but also want to upgrade it to 84v at a later time. Which BMS should I buy?
Buy the BMS that fits your system now. Our BMSs are completely configurable and easy to upgrade later should you want or need to.
What is the best way to test my battery pack?
How do I know if I have a bad battery in my pack?
Why is my range not as good as it used to be?
There are 1001 ways out there to test the batteries in your pack, and find potential problems. Most are ineffective, a lot of work and will not give you enough tangible data to make informed decisions or hold a battery vendor’s feet to the fire if needed. This is why we use a very scientific, very precise method. Read more...
How do I convert my 72v Xebra to 84v?
How do I test my motor/controller?
For a series-wound system, test voltage across (B-) and (M-) on the controller. Meter should read full pack with 0 throttle, 0 at full throttle. If no voltage, suspect controller. If partial voltage and motor movement, suspect motor.
For a SepEx or AC system this testing will require advanced testing tools that only an EV shop is likely to have.
How important is pack balancing?
A series bound pack as commonly found in EV's will last an average of 300 times longer when activly balanced. For more information, refer to the study conducted at the University of Wisconsin using the PowerCheq system: Read More...
A good BMS, or Battery Management System is one of the most critical components on your EV when it comes to performance and good battery life. An effective BMS can extend range up to 20% (depending on pack condition and age) and will extend the life of the average battery pack by 300%. Read more...
I want to install a BMS in my 72v EV, but also want to upgrade it to 84v at a later time. Which BMS should I buy?
Buy the BMS that fits your system now. Our BMSs are completely configurable and easy to upgrade later should you want or need to.
What is the best way to test my battery pack?
How do I know if I have a bad battery in my pack?
Why is my range not as good as it used to be?
There are 1001 ways out there to test the batteries in your pack, and find potential problems. Most are ineffective, a lot of work and will not give you enough tangible data to make informed decisions or hold a battery vendor’s feet to the fire if needed. This is why we use a very scientific, very precise method. Read more...
How do I convert my 72v Xebra to 84v?
Stock ZAP Xebra’s will travel at 35MPH on flat ground, and will go up to 20 miles on a charge. Part of the appeal of the Xebra models is the ease with which they can be modified thanks to the very simple 72 volt platform they are built on. Parts can be mix/matched and added to these little vehicles quite easily to enhance performance. One of the most popular mods has become known as the 84-volt-conversion. An otherwise stock Xebra will easily travel at 40MPH on the flat at 84 volts, and range increases of up to 20% have been achieved using stock batteries. Read more...
How do I test my motor/controller?
For a series-wound system, test voltage across (B-) and (M-) on the controller. Meter should read full pack with 0 throttle, 0 at full throttle. If no voltage, suspect controller. If partial voltage and motor movement, suspect motor.
For a SepEx or AC system this testing will require advanced testing tools that only an EV shop is likely to have.
How important is pack balancing?
A series bound pack as commonly found in EV's will last an average of 300 times longer when activly balanced. For more information, refer to the study conducted at the University of Wisconsin using the PowerCheq system: Read More...
