OwnerDaniel Busby
LocationPasadena, California US map
Email email image
Vehicle1965 Triumph Spitfire
Rescued from the high desert after sitting for 15 years.
MotorWarfield WarP 9 Series Wound DC
Still waiting for delivery...
DrivetrainClutchless 4-speed. 4.11 Differential.
ControllerLogisystems 120-144V 750A
Beautiful looking controller. I haven't tested it yet (no motor) but the infinitely variable current ramp/limits, make me happy.
Batteries10 Trojan T-1275, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Flooded
System Voltage120 Volts
ChargerSchauer JAC1212
I decided to go with 10 smaller, yet higher quality chargers. Each charges at 12A, so charging time is not sacrificed. These smaller units allow both 120 and 240VAC inputs, so I'll be able to charge at home and at public charging stations.
HeaterWe'll see how much my girlfriend complains. I have the original hardtop, so it's not a stupid idea. I will dismantle a small space heater and put it in if necessary. It might be a good idea to keep a defroster for those harsh Southern California winters we have.
DC/DC ConverterIota 55A
InstrumentationAnalog gauges to keep with the 1965 feel of the vehicle. An Amp meter and State of Charge meter at first. I am ordering the gauges from Westach. They had exactly the gauges I wanted: bottom-half (for better visability), chrome bezel, and the perfect SOC voltage: 118-126. 500A Ammeter. Both will be delivered in September.
Top SpeedTBD, only need 55-60 mph
Accelerationhopefully, yes.
RangeTBD, looking for 50 miles
Seating Capacity2 adults
Conversion Time6 work days into it so far.
Conversion Cost$5K for the electric parts
$2K for batteries
$2K for restoration of car
Additional FeaturesI have to rebuild the mechanical tachometer to an electric one, so we can use a Hall effect sensor on the rear shaft for RPM feedback to the driver.
Just getting started. Pulled everything off the car for bodywork. Pulled the engine, exhaust, gas tank, etc. Most of the paint has been stripped. Primering will happen soon.

Under the hood has been painted with a tough speckled paint. No more oily hands while working under the hood!

The motor is the longest lead time part, but it should arrive sometime in September. We will press forward with as much fabrication as we can. Hopefully it will be easy to drop it into place, hook the last few wires up, and test drive.

The adaptor plate is 90% completed. I am making that in another machine shop and can only work on it every now and then during lunch breaks.

The shaft coupler is also coming along nicely. A few more drilled holes, and it should be done.

code by jerry