Quote:
Originally Posted by dcb
How much does the battery weigh? You might yank it out for now just to save a few pounds if for no other reason.
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I don't believe that will work (though I don't know of anyone who's actually tested it). It's the systems design thing again: the IMA system is the alternator, and I believe needs the battery pack - even a "dead" one that doesn't give good assist - in there as sort of a ballast for the system.
Another thing you may not appreciate is that the motor is also controlled so that even when it's not providing assist/regen, it's still using a small amount of current as a vibration damper.
FWIW, pulling the battery is not all that big a deal. Took me a couple of hours the first time. A cordless drill comes in handy, though, as there are dozens of small bolts holding the cover on. Also, wear insulated gloves, as the battery does produce enough voltage to kill you if you happened to create a short. This isn't easy, but why take the chance?