Building an electric RX-8, need help.

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May 31, 2009 | 11:12 AM

#26

CroDriver

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Quote:

Originally Posted by elysium19

I've read on the boards here about some high-power engine swaps, and believe that the car's carbon fiber drive shaft should be fine to around 500 horsepower, and the standard differential should be fine up to 650+ horsepower. I have no idea how many kilowatts that is.

That's great info! One problem less to worry about...

Btw. Is it a limited slip differential or open?

Quote:

Originally Posted by JinDesu

I'd imagine the torque value would be more important, as electric engines are more prominent in that factor.

I have no idea yet how much torque the motors will have.

Quote:

Originally Posted by alnielsen

There is one problem that you will run into doing the conversion. The steering rack is electrical assist. I don't know that this is going to operate without the PCM. You would be removing that when gutting the engine bay. You may have to fabricate a steering rack, steering shaft and associated goodies. The automatic transmission, I believe, also communicates with the PCM.

Yes, that will be a problem... What's a PCM? Can I use a steering rack of another Mazda? Maybe the RX-7? I have a small electric motor that is usually powering the steering pump of an Toyota MR2 (the engine of the MR2 is in the rear).

I have found an photo of the engine bay of an RX-8.

Any guess on the dimensions?

Thank you guys for the helping information!!

May 31, 2009 | 12:04 PM

#27

alnielsen

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From: Buddhist Monastery, High Himalaya Mtns. of Tibet

Quote:

Originally Posted by CroDriver

Btw. Is it a limited slip differential or open?

Limited Slip

Quote:

Originally Posted by CroDriver

PCM - Power Control Module, Also known as as ECU or engine computer.
There may also be a problem with the controlling of the anti-lock brakes and other systems.