how to build an entry level dual hub motor electric skateboard
I. Introduction Building an electric skateboard can be a fun and rewarding project that allows you to customize your board to your exact specifications. An entry-level dual hub motor electric skateboard is a great option for beginners as it is easier to build and more affordable than some other electric skateboard setups. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to build an entry-level dual hub motor electric skateboard. We'll also discuss the different components needed and offer tips on troubleshooting and safety.
II. Choosing the Right Components Before you start building your electric skateboard, it's important to choose the right components. Here are the key components you'll need to build an entry-level dual hub motor electric skateboard:
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Deck: The deck is the board that you stand on. You can choose a deck made from a variety of materials, such as maple, bamboo, or carbon fiber. A good entry-level option is a 7-ply Canadian maple deck, which offers a balance of strength and flexibility.
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Trucks: Trucks are the metal parts that connect the wheels to the deck. They come in different sizes and shapes, so make sure to choose ones that are compatible with your deck. For an entry-level electric skateboard, you can choose standard trucks that are compatible with the size of your wheels.
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Wheels: Wheels are important for providing a smooth ride and good grip on the road. For an entry-level electric skateboard, 90mm wheels are a good option.
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Bearings: Bearings are what allow the wheels to spin smoothly. High-quality bearings can improve the performance of your electric skateboard. Look for ABEC 7 or higher rated bearings.
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Motor: The motor is what powers your electric skateboard. For an entry-level dual hub motor electric skateboard, you'll need two hub motors, one for each wheel. Hub motors are easier to install than belt-driven motors and offer a smoother ride.
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Battery: The battery provides power to the motor. You'll need a lithium-ion battery with a voltage of at least 36V and a capacity of at least 4Ah. Look for a battery that has a built-in BMS (battery management system) for added safety.
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Controller: The controller is what allows you to control the speed and braking of your electric skateboard. Choose a wireless controller with a good range and clear indicators for speed and battery life.
When choosing your components, make sure that they are compatible with each other. For example, make sure that the voltage of your battery is compatible with the voltage required by your motor.
III. Assembly Instructions Once you have all your components, you're ready to start assembling your electric skateboard. Here's how to do it:
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Attach the trucks to the deck: Use a skate tool to attach the trucks to the deck. Make sure they are tightened securely.
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Install the motors: Remove the wheel and insert the motor into the wheel hub. Tighten the bolts to secure the motor to the wheel hub. Repeat for the other wheel.
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Connect the motor wires: Connect the motor wires to the wires on the ESC (electronic speed controller). Make sure to connect the wires correctly, following the instructions provided with your ESC.
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Mount the battery: Use screws or velcro straps to mount the battery to the underside of the deck.
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Connect the battery and controller: Connect the battery and controller wires according to the instructions provided with your controller.
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Test the system: Turn on the controller and test the system to make sure that everything is working properly. Adjust the settings on the controller as needed to get the desired speed and braking.
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Fine-tune the settings: Once everything is working properly, you can fine-tune the settings to optimize the performance of your electric skateboard. This might include adjusting the acceleration and braking settings on the controller, or adjusting the tension on the trucks for a smoother ride.
IV. Troubleshooting Even with careful assembly and testing, there may be times when your electric skateboard doesn't work as expected. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
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Motor not turning: If your motor isn't turning, check the connections between the motor, ESC, and battery. Make sure that all wires are properly connected and that the battery is charged.
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Low battery life: If your battery isn't lasting as long as you'd like, check the voltage and capacity of the battery. You may need to upgrade to a higher-capacity battery for longer rides.
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Poor acceleration or braking: If you're not getting the acceleration or braking performance you want, try adjusting the settings on your controller. You can also adjust the tension on the trucks for a smoother ride.
V. Safety Tips Building and riding an electric skateboard can be fun, but it's important to take safety seriously. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
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Wear protective gear: Always wear a helmet and other protective gear, such as knee and elbow pads.
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Check your equipment: Before each ride, check your electric skateboard for any loose or damaged components.
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Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid riding in crowded areas or on uneven terrain.
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Practice safe riding: Start with slow speeds and gradually increase your speed as you gain more experience. Always use the brakes to slow down and come to a complete stop before dismounting.
VI. Conclusion Building an entry-level dual hub motor electric skateboard is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to customize your ride to your exact specifications. By choosing the right components and following the assembly instructions, you can build an electric skateboard that is reliable and safe to ride. Remember to always take safety seriously and enjoy your ride!
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