Re: (ET) Transformer

["David Roden (Akron OH USA)" <roden ald net>]

On 31 Oct 2001, at 10:28, Jeremy Gagliardi com wrote:

> I think it might be a good idea if I take the non-36V accessories off the
> batteries and wire them to a 36-to-12V step-down transformer, so that
> everything on the tractor draws 36V to drain all batteries evenly. What
> kind of transformer do I need, and where can I get one?
> 

A transformer only works with AC, not DC.  If it's connected to DC 
without additional electronic circuitry, it will burn up.

What you want is a DC:DC converter (as I've mentioned in other posts).  
A DC:DC is an electronic device which you might say is a "DC 
transformer."  DC:DC converters are available from vendors who specialize 
in road EV, golf car, and forklift components.  

They aren't cheap.  A Curtis 1400E24/36-1201 (24-36v input, 13.2v at 22 
amps output) is about $400 list in single quantities.  But sometimes you 
can get an off-brand or surplus DC:DC for much less, often under $100.

I don't know how much current the ET's lift motor requires.  Is the 
Curtis's 22 amp capacity enough to start it when the snow thrower is 
hanging off the lift strap?  If not, you might still need a separate 12v 
battery to provide surge capacity even with a DC:DC.


David Roden - Akron, Ohio, USA
1991 Solectria Force 144vac
1991 Ford Escort Green/EV 128vdc
1979 General Engines ElectroPed 24vdc
1970 GE Elec-trak E15 36vdc
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