Hi Tom,
I just purchased a 1975 citicar, and could REALLY use some basic help to get it started.
I'll give you my disclaimer, that I am in no way a mechanic, but I did a lot of research on these vehicles, and I think I can at least get it going, and then take it from there, or have a local tech school improve on it.
Second disclaimer.....I have a bad habit of buying things , and "letting them sit", this time it is not going to happen.
Anyway....I bought it as follows.........complete, vg shape, all batteries are there ( not sure how many will hold a charge ), on-board charger not working.
Previous owner says riding it up until 6 months ago, then some smoking near the ignition, and has not run since, decided to sell. Their mechanic thinks the charger is not working due to whatever is causing the vehicle not to run ( but he is an ICE guy, so did not work on it ).
Since I got it on 09/20, I have ::: Charged one battery with a 12v charger ( all still wired together ), then tried to charge a second battery, and it blew the 12 v charger. This is all I have done so far. I have not looked under the dash yet.
Also, did these have a dc-dc converter for the accessories ?. I do not think the early ones had this. I would like to add one with a separate 12v ? battery eventually, like most ev set-ups. While I have a "million questions" , can you give me an idea what to look for in the dash area ( re: "smoke coming from that area " ), maybe I can at least get it started.
P.S.---I know the Smart Charger is the way to go, but a little too soon for the expense, any tips on getting the Lester oldie working, and also I will probably buy another 12v anyway for general use( or 6/12v combo ), I am assuming the obvious way to charge the batteries is disconnecting them & one at a time ???.
Thanks, any answers appreciated !!!!
