Otis Singleton
Electric longboards are a fun and portable mode of transportation, especially for those who live in cities. Building your own electric longboard can be a challenging but rewarding experience. There are several factors to consider when building an electric longboard, such as the type of motor, battery, speed, range, and cost. The process of building an electric longboard involves installing a motor, battery, and control system, as well as wiring the components together. It is important to test the board before riding to ensure all components are functioning properly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Motor | Dual drive electric hub motor |
| Motor mount | Bolt-on |
| Motor mount material | 7075 Mil Spec Aircraft Grade Aluminum |
| Motor installation | Drill holes and attach using screws or other mounting hardware |
| Battery | Lithium-ion |
| Battery installation | Drill holes and attach using a mounting bracket |
| Wiring | Connect the motor and battery to a control system |
| Control system | Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) |
| Remote control | Wireless handheld |
| Speed | 15-20 mph (entry-level), 25-30 mph (high-end) |
| Range | 5-10 miles (entry-level), up to 20 miles (high-end) |
| Throttle | Traditional trigger-style or thumb-controlled accelerator |
| Additional components | Enclosures, LED lights |
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What You'll Learn
Installing a motor
When installing the motor, start by removing the rear right wheel of the longboard. If the trucks of the skateboard have a curve, use a metal file to flatten it so that the motor mount fits perfectly. Secure the motor mount using bolts or by welding it to the trucks. You can also design and 3D print your own motor mount if you're feeling adventurous.
Next, attach the motor to the mount using machine screws. Add a pulley to the wheel to transfer rotational energy from the motor. Place the larger pulley in the center of the wheel and mark the holes for drilling. Secure the pulley with machine screws and thread lock or a self-locking nut. Attach the smaller pulley to the motor shaft and position the belt along with the wheel and pulleys to form the drive train.
Connect the motor wires to the ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) wires, and then connect the ESC to the battery pack. You may need to drill holes in the board to secure the battery pack and ESC in place.
Finally, test all the parts to ensure they are working correctly, and you're ready to ride your electric longboard!
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Adding a battery
First, gather the necessary tools and materials, including a new battery, a T-Tool, an Allen key or hex key of the correct size, a hairdryer, and a Stanley knife. You will use the Stanley knife to remove the grip tape covering the screws on top of the deck of the board, so ensure you have a new piece of grip tape for after the battery change.
Next, use the hairdryer to lightly warm up the grip tape. Once it is warm, use the Stanley knife to lift up the edges and carefully pull back the tape, trying to leave as little adhesive residue as possible on the deck. With the screws exposed, grab your Allen key or hex key and begin to loosen the screws that hold the battery case together.
Now you can swap out the batteries. First, unhook the larger yellow cable, followed by the red cable or a smaller yellow cable, depending on your board's setup. Then, carefully remove the old battery from the case and set it aside, ensuring you don't damage any of the electronics inside. Take your new battery and connect the cables in the opposite order you unhooked them, securing the new battery inside the case with the screws.
Finally, replace the grip tape on top of the deck, ensuring a firm adhesion to the board. And that's it! You've successfully added a new battery to your electric longboard.
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Wiring the components
Firstly, you need to wire the motor and battery together. The motor wires should be connected to the ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) wires. An ST60 or XT60 connector is typically used to connect the ESC to the battery pack. Make sure you follow proper wiring techniques and be cautious to prevent any potential short circuits.
When connecting the wires, it's important to only switch on one battery at a time. If you activate both batteries simultaneously, you might charge the empty battery through the full one, which could lead to issues with the ESC functioning correctly. However, as a safety precaution, it's good to know that nothing will explode if this mistake occurs.
For the wiring itself, you can use 12AWG red and black wire, which is a common choice for electric longboards. You can find these wires on eBay or similar online stores.
After wiring the motor and battery, you'll need to connect them to a control system. This system will allow you to control the speed and direction of your electric longboard. You can opt for a traditional trigger-style accelerator or a thumb-controlled accelerator for the throttle.
Finally, test your board in a safe, open space to ensure all the components are working correctly and that the electric system is stable. Check the speed and range of your board to ensure it aligns with your expectations and the capabilities of the motor, battery, and your weight as a rider.
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Installing a throttle
First, power off your longboard and disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical accidents. If you're replacing an old throttle, carefully remove it by unscrewing any screws or bolts holding it in place.
Next, position the new throttle on the handlebar within comfortable and easy reach. Ensure that it doesn't interfere with your grip on the handlebars. Secure the throttle in place, tightening it with the Allen wrench, but be careful not to over-tighten as this may damage the components.
Now, it's time to connect the wires. Locate the wires from the motor and battery, and connect the positive and negative wires from the throttle to the corresponding wires. Secure the wires with electrical tape or zip ties, and ensure there's enough slack for the handlebars to turn freely.
Finally, test your installation. Reconnect the battery, turn on the power, and test the throttle for responsiveness. Double-check that all connections are secure and that your longboard operates as expected. If the throttle does not respond, verify all wire connections and ensure there are no pinched or kinked cables restricting electricity flow.
Always consult your electric longboard's manual for specific instructions and ensure that your throttle is compatible with your longboard model.
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Testing your board
Testing your electric longboard is a crucial step in ensuring your safety and the longevity of your board. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to test your board:
Power and Electronics:
- Inspect the motor cables to ensure they are clean, properly connected, and free of any visible damage.
- Check the battery power to ensure it is at the correct level and hasn't lost its charge.
- Test the remote control by turning it on and checking its power.
- Confirm the remote connection by providing power to the board in every available mode.
Belts and Tires:
- Adjust the belt tension by following the recommended procedure for your specific e-board. Most e-boards use either a tension adjustment screw or a sliding motor mount.
- Test the belt tension by gently pressing on the center to ensure a deflection of about 3-4mm, listening for a clear "thump" when plucked, and checking for smooth wheel rotation without binding or resistance.
- After achieving the right tension, tighten the motor mount bolts in a cross pattern.
- Perform a final check by rotating the wheel several times manually to ensure smooth movement without any unusual sounds or resistance.
- Check the tire pressure using a reliable gauge. Most e-skateboard pneumatic tires require between 35-45 PSI.
- Inspect the tires for any bulges or deformations in the sidewall.
General Maintenance:
- Regularly clean your board, including a dry wipe, using an electronics duster or air canister, and then a damp cloth or all-purpose cleaner for the deck and wheel edges.
- Maintain the grip tape by using grip gum to remove grime and refresh the surface.
- Inspect the bearings, as they may eventually break or pop, which can be dangerous during a ride.
- Check the wheel nuts, screws, bolts, and other hardware to ensure they are tight and secure.
- If your board has suspension, lights, or other accessories, ensure they are functioning and clean.
Final Assembly and Testing:
- During final assembly, mount the wheel with precise alignment and apply the manufacturer's recommended torque when tightening the nuts.
- Perform a thorough spin test to identify any wobble or alignment issues.
- Listen to your board – unusual sounds or vibrations may indicate an issue that needs attention.
- Always test your board in a safe, controlled environment before taking it out for a ride.
Remember, safety should be your top priority when testing and riding your electric longboard. Always wear protective gear and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines.
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Frequently asked questions
To change the board on your electric longboard, you will need to remove the existing board and install a new one. This will involve disassembling the components of your electric longboard, such as the motor, battery, and control system, and then reassembling them on the new board. Make sure to follow safety precautions and refer to a detailed guide or seek expert advice before attempting this process.
The tools you will need may vary depending on the specific design and components of your electric longboard. However, some common tools you may require include screwdrivers, drills, soldering equipment, and wiring tools. It is important to have a basic understanding of electronics and safety measures before attempting any repairs or modifications.
Removing the old board involves carefully disassembling the components attached to it. First, disconnect the battery and any wires or connectors. Then, unscrew or detach any mounting hardware, motors, or enclosures. Make sure to keep track of the different parts and their original positions for easier reassembly.
To install a new board, follow the steps in reverse. First, attach any mounting hardware or enclosures to the new board. Then, connect the wires and components, ensuring proper wiring techniques and safety checks. Finally, secure the battery and motor in place, testing their functionality before riding your electric longboard.
