RXV EM brake modification

[ojo]

As there's still no solution with the RXV em brake ( unexpected brake lock up ), I've decided to find something by myself. It didn't happen to me ( so far ) but, if it would happen while driving fast down the road, not funny for sure... The idea is, to modify the em brake to be still functional ( keep the cart from rolling and hold it even on an incline ), but don't lock up completely.
There are 5 metric pressure springs inside the em brake, stock dimensions 1.5 x 8 x 25mm, which I've replaced with new softer springs 1.0 x 8 x 25mm. After tightening the em brake on the motor, the brake engage/disengage as it should and passes the start up test normally. No test drive so far, will report back with further results.

[TheCartBoy]

You could do a brake distance test from top speed to full lock up to see how effective the mod was.

[sleeplesstwo]

I like that idea. Send me a link, or send me some springs with a bill, and I would be happy to test that as well.

[suzook]

So wouldn't this hurt the actual normal braking also??

[SBIRD!]

Originally Posted by suzook

So wouldn't this hurt the actual normal braking also??

I'd think not since all the braking is done by regen. The parking brake is all or nothing and doesn't activate unless the pedal is mashed down for emergency stops.
We'll need a test ojo on holding power when parked on steep grades for those of us who live in the hills. Parking sideways isn't always a option for me.

[TheCartBoy]

Bird, carry your emotional support rock with you. It doubles as a wheel chock

[Volt_Ampere]

The mechanical brake on the RXV is only a "Parking Brake". IT doesn't normally do any braking during driving. IT's all done with the AC motor. However, as a critical safety feature, if the cart loses battery power or the controller or solenoid fails, the mechanical brake is the only thing to stop the cart if it's running when the failure happens. There will be a fine line between not enough braking with the mechanical brake and so much that it locks the wheels. (which it does stock)

[ojo]

Originally Posted by Volt_Ampere

The mechanical brake on the RXV is only a "Parking Brake". IT doesn't normally do any braking during driving. IT's all done with the AC motor. However, as a critical safety feature, if the cart loses battery power or the controller or solenoid fails, the mechanical brake is the only thing to stop the cart if it's running when the failure happens. There will be a fine line between not enough braking with the mechanical brake and so much that it locks the wheels. (which it does stock)

Volt, exactly, that will be the challenge. Did some testing, these 1.0mm wire diameter springs seems to be a bit too soft. The cart works without faults but, braking power of the em brake is pretty low. Next step should be to increase wire diameter to 1.25mm or 1.4mm. Unfortunately all these springs on Amazon / eBay were shipped from China...

[ojo]

Originally Posted by sleeplesstwo

I like that idea. Send me a link, or send me some springs with a bill, and I would be happy to test that as well.

I'll increase the wire diameter of the springs on my next attempt for better braking. With these, you wouldn't fly through the windshield for sure but, it would be a looong way to stop the cart in a shut down situation.
If you'll test it, search on Amazon/ eBay for Compression Springs 1.2 or 1.4 x 8 x 25mm ( China sellers ). It's trial and error...

eBay art. 404607263115 ( 1.2mm )
404732205131 ( 1.4mm )