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Otmar's Variety Blog

A place for random projects.

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Propane Tank Check, External Battery Mod

The author addresses the difficulty of monitoring propane levels in a VW Vanagon Westfalia using a Mopeka Tank Check due to frequent battery replacements. They propose using an external, rechargeable battery as a solution. Detailed instructions for installing the battery are provided, highlighting the benefits of longevity and ease of use, while noting certain cautions and considerations.

Tesla Model Y Camping Bed

This post details the modification of a camping bed for the Tesla Model Y, addressing challenges such as the slope in the car and the seat backs that do not fold flat. The author shares their recommended bedding setup and describes the modifications made to the seat mechanism. They also provide information on the supplies used for the modification.

Let Batteries Live Longer – Sonoff S31 with Tasmota for charge limiting

The post provides a detailed guide on how to modify a Sonoff S31 device to limit battery charging and extend the lifespan of lithium batteries commonly used in devices like phones, laptops, and tools. This DIY hack requires some soldering and code loading: it automates the turning off of device chargers before the battery reaches full charge. The modified S31 works independently and does not…

Tesla HPWC Hot Plug Fix

Back in 2019 Tesla offered a 40 Amp High Power Wall Connector with a NEMA 14-50 plug. Unfortunately some of these had suboptimal welds from the cable to the terminals causing the plug to get warm. Fortunately Tesla has built in protection for hot plugs, which also can happen due to poor house wiring, and Read More Tesla HPWC Hot Plug Fix

Smart ForTwo ED3 EBS2 Current Sensor Test

If you are repairing a bricked Smart ForTwo ED3 Electric Vehicle, this may be useful. I m in the midst of replacing a dead cell in the traction battery pack on a 2014 Smart ForTwo ED3 electric car.The forums at smartcar of AMERICA have been super helpful, and yet I was struggling to easily test my Read More Smart ForTwo ED3 EBS2 Current Sensor Test

Vanagon 100 Amp Hour Under-seat Battery

I ve found a high quality 100 Amp hour Lithium battery that fits under and behind the drivers seat in a Vanagon Westfalia. EDIT: 1/24/2024, The battery case has changed slightly since I did mine. A friend reports that it still clears the Westie swivel, but with less clearance. I will update this post when we Read More Vanagon 100 Amp Hour Under-seat Battery

Elec-Trak DC-DC converters.

I love my Elec-Trak lawn tractor. It s about 50 years old though, and the lead acid batteries are not very cost effective anymore so I upgraded them to Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries and also added an inverter to run my shop if the power goes out. If you also have upgraded to lithium, you ve surely Read More Elec-Trak DC-DC converters.

Model 3 Inverter Power Connection

Not ideal, but it works with some babysitting. For more AC power than a standard 12V Power Socket inverter could provide, I tapped into the high current DC-DC output from the Tesla PCS (Power Conversion System) under the rear seat. This is a first trial, not very refined, but functions well with manual Inverter switching Read More Model 3 Inverter Power Connection

Shopping List

Yes, just boring Text This post is a place to save links to products that I m buying, usually on Amazon for my projects or in preparation for reviews. Model 3 Towing Related:Tekonsha 119250 Trailer light wiring Adaptor for Model 3, this is the simple kit without extra wire and padding:https://amzn.to/2LSLzPp This one (119251) with Read More Shopping List

Tesla Model 3 Camping Setup, the Bed.

To sleep, perchance to dream ay, there s the rub, for to dream well, that desires comfort! The rear seats in the very early Model 3s folded down flat. The rest of us (after about serial number 10,000) get a more comfortable back seat, but also a bed that lacks a certain desirable flatness. Don t Read More Tesla Model 3 Camping Setup, the Bed.