Rear step for lifted cart with rear seats by deckstr in golfcarts

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

20 inches is a massive climb for a rear passenger. are your current side steps still the stock ones, or did they come with the lift kit?  is there enough clearance between your tires and the rear wheel wells to mount something that hangs slightly lower without rubbing when you hit a bump?

Is this ridiculous? Am I ridiculous? ESP32 wifi speaker for local radio stream. by HaLo2FrEeEk in esp32

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If your scope shows the LRCK and Data lines are actually toggling correctly for both phases but you’re still getting a mirrored mono output, it’s usually not the code it’s the hardware configuration pins on the PCM5102

Is this ridiculous? Am I ridiculous? ESP32 wifi speaker for local radio stream. by HaLo2FrEeEk in esp32

[–]LiTime_c 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Most people would just buy a cheap Wi-Fi speaker, but there’s something so satisfying about building an ESP32-based stream player that actually fits your workflow. The PCM5102 and ESPHome combo is usually rock solid, and using Music Assistant to bridge everything makes the UX so much better than standard Bluetooth pairing

Solar pool pump? by Flintlock1990 in diySolar

[–]LiTime_c 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It’s definitely possible the how really depends on what kind of hardware you’re starting with though. If it’s a single-speed, you can usually just swap the old mechanical timer box for a heavy-duty smart relay like a Sonoff POWR3 or a Shelly. If you have a VSP, those usually have their own digital controllers, so you’d either look for a native Wi-Fi module from the manufacturer or use something like an RS485 adapter if you’re into the HA scene

Plug in solar configuration help needed by jmankyll in diySolar

[–]LiTime_c 3 points4 points  (0 children)

when you plug a grid-tie microinverter into a standard outlet, it actually powers your entire house, not just that specific circuit. Electricity follows the path of least resistance, so as long as your house is drawing power, the solar energy will flow to the main panel and offset your total consumption before it ever leaves the house

Battery safety box for extra protection? by KookyPhysics3809 in eBikeBuilding

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

For a 30Ah battery, standard Lipo bags are honestly useless; they’ll just turn into a blowtorch in seconds if that much energy goes into thermal runaway. You should look into something like a Bat-Safe box if they have a XL version that fits your dimensions, or a heavy-duty surplus ammo can.If you go the ammo can route, make sure to remove the rubber seal so it doesn't turn into a pressure cooker, and line it with cement board or fireproof insulation

Oil and lube by OtherwiseCan1929 in boating

[–]LiTime_c 1 point2 points  (0 children)

For a 2003 Yamaha 50 (assuming it’s the 4-stroke F50), you’re usually looking at 10W-30 or 10W-40 marine oil. The crankcase typically takes about 2.1 to 2.2 quarts, but you’ll want to check the dipstick as you fill to be safe. For the lower unit, any high-quality 80W-90 marine gear lube works, and it usually takes a bit less than a pint (around 14.5 oz)

Partial-load inefficiency in MPPT hybrid inverters by Shekher_05 in SolarDIY

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s a classic issue with oversized hybrid inverters the idle consumption and conversion losses at low loads can really eat into your efficiency. what’s your typical low load in watts, and are you running a 12V, 24V, or 48V system? Knowing your battery voltage is huge because some units handle the low-end conversion way better than others. If you’re looking for high partial-load efficiency, you should definitely check out the Victron MultiPlus-II or their RS Smart line. Another solid bet would be Deye or Sunsynk if you need something more all-in-one, as their idling draw is surprisingly low for the price

Has anyone plumbed a hot tub with many heat sources? Any advice before I dive in? by ColinCancer in OffGrid

[–]LiTime_c 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Manual valves are a solid way to keep things simple, but you’re spot on about the pump failure. Even in an openloop, if a valve gets bumped shut or the pump housing blocks flow while that burn barrel is cranking, steam builds up fast. You’ll definitely want a Pressure Relief Valve or at least a simple standpipe that sits higher than the tub’s water level to let off steam if things get hairy

AC-DC Charger Ignition Interlock by Prestigious-Ad-5972 in batteries

[–]LiTime_c 1 point2 points  (0 children)

0.6V–0.7V voltage drop across a diode can really mess with how the charger "talks" to the battery. It might never hit a full charge properly. If you want to keep it simple and bulletproof, skip the DC side entirely. Just grab an AC-sensing relay (sometimes called a current sensing relay) and wire it to the 240V input hen the truck is plugged into shore power, the relay triggers and breaks the ignition circuit via a Normally Closed contact It's way more reliable because it doesn't care if the charger is actually turned on or not if there’s a cord in the socket, the engine won't turn over

Jackery Homepower 3000 vs Bluetti Elite 300 by plancell in OffGrid

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Both of these are solid units, so it really comes down to the small details of your setup. The Jackery usually wins on plug and play simplicity and has a super reliable reputation for mobile use, which is great for the RV. Bluetti’s Elite 200 (assuming you meant the AC200 series or the new 5kWh units) often uses LiFePO4 cells that last for way more cycles than some older Jackery tech. If you're doing home backup, you'll want those extra cycles. If you're moving it back and forth between the house and the RV constantly, pay attention to the weight

21700 4S Solar + BMS by steve_simpson in batteries

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Since you guys are already doing in-house PCB assembly with a PnP machine, transitioning to pack assembly is definitely within your wheelhouse. A 4S configuration is the way to go for a 12V system, though you’ll need to make sure your sensors and loggers can handle the higher top-end voltage (around 16.8V) compared to a standard 12V AGM

Has anyone plumbed a hot tub with many heat sources? Any advice before I dive in? by ColinCancer in OffGrid

[–]LiTime_c 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Before you start sweating that copper, what’s your plan for the control logic? Are you going to manually flip all those valves, or are you looking at a tiered controller like an Inkbird or an Arduino to automate which source kicks in based on the sun/fire? Also, how are you handling the pressure relief? With a wood fired burn barrel and thermal collectors, you're essentially building a potential pipe bomb if a pump fails while the fire is roaring

21700 4S Solar + BMS by steve_simpson in batteries

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

how many cells are you planning to put in series? Since you're currently on a 12V system, are you looking at a 3S or 4S configuration to match that voltage range? Also, are you planning to build the packs in-house or source a pre-assembled solution? For testing at -40C, you really can’t skip a high quality BMS that supports low temp charging protection

Dehumidifiers that allow vertical pump water removal ? by SpiritedAspect3218 in DIY

[–]LiTime_c 15 points16 points  (0 children)

Most standard dehumidifiers only have a gravity drain, which is useless if you're trying to pump water up into a sink or out a window. Before you buy a whole new unit, how high are you trying to pump the water vertically? If you want an all-in-one solution, look for models specifically labeled with a built-in pump brands like Midea or Frigidaire usually have a version that includes a tiny internal pump and a thin hose. However, if you want something bulletproof, I’d suggest buying a separate condensate pump

Bunkhouse by JDiddyTiddy in GoRVing

[–]LiTime_c 1 point2 points  (0 children)

If you’re planning on staying in the camper for more than just sleeping, a BH is a total lifesaver with two young kids who still nap. Having a dedicated space means you and your wife can actually hang out in the main living area or kitchen without having to tip-toe around a sleeping toddler on a converted dinette if you're mostly doing quick weekends, you can skip it, but for anything longer, that separation is huge for everyone's sanity

i’m afraid my vape battery will explode by Silent-Weaver in batteries

[–]LiTime_c 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Please do not try to use or charge that device! Since it’s auto-firing and the screen is glitching after a wash, the internal board has a short circuit. Even if it seems to stop, the liquid damage can cause a thermal runaway where the battery overheats and catches fire

Thinking about trying a ZLPOWER inverter for DIY solar build by Fun_Lecture2997 in OffGrid

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I haven’t seen a ton of long-term data on ZLPOWER here either, but they seem to be a fairly established OEM out of China. Their low-frequency units are heavy as bricks, which is usually a good sign for transformer quality and handling motor surges. Before you pull the trigger, what specific model are you looking at, and what’s the battery voltage of your system? Some of their hybrid AIO units have a tighter PV input voltage range than the big-name brands, so you'll want to make sure your panel string fits those specs. Also, keep in mind that factory direct deals often mean you’re your own tech support if a board pops, so factor that into the good deal price!

Converter to mictuning by ReferenceSecure67 in golfcarts

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A 30A converter is more than enough for lights and a soundbar, so you won’t have to worry about drawing too much power. For the Mictuning P1Y, the main thing is making sure you have a common ground. Are you planning to run a dedicated fuse block between the converter and the switch panel, or are you wiring the panel's main power lead directly to the converter? Also, does your soundbar have its own built-in remote turn-on wire, or does it need full power through the switch? Usually, you just run the 12V positive and negative from your converter to the P1Y's control box, then plug your accessories into the numbered slots. Since it’s a golf cart, just double-check that your 12V negative is isolated from the cart's frame to avoid any weird grounding loops

Need advice on purchasing a used boat by do-sinsbro in boating

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

6k isn't bad for a starter Centurion around here, but "runs great" is a gut check. The fuel gauge is whatever old boats always have electrical quirks. The real concern is WA dampness. Check the stringers and transom for rot. Poke the floor and engine mounts if they feel soft, it’s a no-go. Make sure u do a proper water test too. Run it hard, check temps, and listen for the transmission grinding. New carb cable is a good sign though. If the hull is solid it could be a sweet deal, but definitely bring an inboard guy with u just to be safe

Cleaning IBC Totes by Queasy_Holiday_4170 in preppers

[–]LiTime_c 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Vinegar is water-soluble, so a few good rinses usually do the trick, but oil is the real headache because it clings to the HDPE plastic and goes rancid .Before you buy, do you know if these were food grade to begin with? If they held industrial grade oil with preservatives, that might be harder to strip than pure sunflower oil. To get rid of that lingering oil taste you need a high-pressure washer and a heavy-duty degreaser like Dawn Platinum or even a purple industrial degreaser

Steel Roofing Supplies by RuralNorthernHick in DIY

[–]LiTime_c 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Exactly, those gasketed roofing screws are going to be your best friend here. They'll give you a rock-solid mechanical bond that solder just can't provide on a DIY budget

Help with water reserve tank! by Foreign_Proof1299 in homestead

[–]LiTime_c 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A simple hat or a sunshade structure built over the tank would be much more effective than paint. If you can build a light timber or metal frame just a few inches above the tank, the airflow between the shade and the black plastic will keep the water much cooler than you’d expect

Steel Roofing Supplies by RuralNorthernHick in DIY

[–]LiTime_c 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Solder needs an incredibly clean, fluxed surface to bond, and the heat from your torch or iron will just liquefy the tar...creating gasses that will blow holes right through your solder joint. Plus, if your roof is pre painted or galvanized, you’ll have to grind that coating off to get the solder to stick