24v Motor question...Will it work?
 

I have access to a 24V forklift, that is complete. My question is will the motor work for a EV? How much voltage can the motor take and what do I look for? I am assuming the motor should be 8" to 10" diameter for strength and capacity. I would like to take it to freeway speeds, so can this be done by using a motor controller in the 144V range? Essentially I am going to pirate the cables and motor, what else might be applicable if anything. Thanks

I'd say it can probably be used, but its never a certainty. Weight is another factor, the more it weighs, the better it can handle increased power output (generally speaking). Take a look at the brushes and see how large they are. That will also give you an indication of how much amperage they can handle.

Make sure you grab things like the contactors, copper bus bars, and fuses.

144 volts in to a 24 volt motor? the windings are to large of wire and way to short, something is going to burn up quickly, read a little about motor basics before trying something like that.

We have guys using 36V motors @ 144V with no problems in the local club.

I wish a GOOD walkthrough of evaluating and modifying a motor DIY would be made, I have a little 5hp 6 3/4" motor designed for 48v. I have been told repeatedly it dies at 96v as people have killed it at 96v.

Trouble is I do not know how the people made it fail, was it RPMs? Was it heat? Never can find out.

Anyway do most of the guys in the local club advance the brushes at HV?