Third experiment...
Wanted to know if any of the "self-learning" controllers are capable of running without the hall sensors...I went out of the way to find a 1500w 72v controlelr that specifically stated it could run "sensorless"; it was hard to find and at least 25% more expensive than the cheapest one that didn't state it either way.
Well, they do! No need to pay extra for one that states it...if it has the two little white wires for "Self learning", it should be good to go.
Ok, rather a blanket statement, maybe I just lucked out...I have at least one more controller that has self-learning that I can test it again with...but I'm pretty confident. Those little "ESC" RC controlelrs have been sensorless for years, no reason these shouldn't be too by now.
I think I only paid $10 or $15 for this little 350w controller, and less than $25 for the 500w and 800w ones. Canadian. So about 50 cents US.
There ya go. Happy hunting, DIY'ers!
Oh, and the motor ran modestly warm at 40v, compared to really warm at 52 and hot at 80v...so I'd suggest sticking with a 48v/1000w controller or less, unless you get your hands on a high-amp (130-200a) alternator. (and even then, I don't promise it won't get hot at "72v")