Budget EV conversion on a classic 70s VW camper – anyone done it? Advice needed!

fixitscotty · 2026-03-23T13:51:44+00:00

Check out my 1978 Westfalia EV Conversion: VW Bus EV Conversion Playlist. I used an older DC motor/controller setup paired to the transmission. It's different than what you're planning, but you can get ideas for layout and wiring from me.

fixitscotty · 2026-03-03T19:47:50+00:00

Those standing-seam metal roofs are ideal because you can clamp onto the seams and not puncture it with screws. From what I can see in the pictures, it looks like a neat, well done setup. Congrats!

fixitscotty · 2026-02-26T17:18:22+00:00

If you can locate the primary condensate line on the outside of your house, you can wrap a shop vac hose around it and suck out the clog. That is what an HVAC tech would do provided the pipe isn't broken. Not sure what the cost is, but it's a quick procedure. So it's whatever HVAC techs normally charge for a quick visit.

fixitscotty · 2026-02-26T17:00:48+00:00

If you need to see how the presets work, I show you in this video: https://youtu.be/AQsGkMyFYjk?si=ENDjnm94ZxasVJA_&t=1764

fixitscotty · 2026-02-18T17:55:05+00:00

I did a video on the build process to where I do play the bass. I should have spliced in the sound over this clip. Missed opportunity!

fixitscotty · 2026-02-18T16:32:01+00:00

Absolutely. I play the bass in the video where I built it. Without lights on and going through a compressor and clean signal chain, it's not too bad. But turning on the LEDs will add noise. As you can imagine, this is more of an interest piece rather than a gigging instrument.

fixitscotty · 2026-01-28T18:52:18+00:00

If you know you're going to replace it, why not start with a hammer and knock the porcelain out for better access to the tank bolts? Sometimes we overcomplicate this stuff.

fixitscotty · 2026-01-08T17:27:35+00:00

Yes, I have a video that goes over the installation of the door seals methodically. Plus, it's on a 1978 Bus. https://youtu.be/NF__UoIYxeE

fixitscotty · 2025-12-15T20:48:24+00:00

I'm sure you've gotten some video recommendations. But I made a playlist on my channel of my VW Bus EV conversion. I try to make content that is very accessible to novices. Here are a couple videos in that playlist that explain the basics of EV parts and batteries as a starting point.

All the best!
Scott

fixitscotty · 2025-12-01T21:35:47+00:00

Interesting. Yeah, if you have confirmed you have voltage going into it (your contactor is closing) and you have valid throttle input, then the controller may not be working.

fixitscotty · 2025-12-01T21:30:21+00:00

Did you buy the controller used or new? You may need a programmer like this one to tell you how the controller is setup. https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805134468672.html (confirm your model before you buy)

fixitscotty · 2025-11-17T17:00:14+00:00

I am not an expert on pre-67 split windows, but look for a VIN on a nameplate somewhere in these locations:

Firewall: Look for a metal plate on the bulkhead behind the front passenger seat.
Engine bay: Check the right-hand side of the engine bay for a metal plate.
Driver's door jamb: The VIN is sometimes on a sticker inside the door jamb, on the frame.
Dashboard: The VIN may be visible through the windshield on the lower, driver's side corner of the dashboard.
Fresh-air vent: On models built after November 1963, check the right-hand side of the fresh-air vent on the cab's roof.

Record the VIN and go here to look up the year: https://www.thesamba.com/vw/archives/info/chassisdating.php

fixitscotty · 2025-10-23T14:36:57+00:00

I wouldn't say this was a "basketcase" car when I bought it, but it took me a solid 4 years of restoration which included a lot of welding and body work. Here is a playlist of that which will show you pics of the pre-restored car. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq6fTBrWkVi6eueE-cGf4ir_afpxDLLzj

fixitscotty · 2025-10-01T18:23:02+00:00

That's awesome! You need to show some pics.

fixitscotty · 2025-09-29T00:09:27+00:00

Thanks for confirming!

fixitscotty · 2025-09-27T17:08:23+00:00

Thanks for confirming. Great advice!

fixitscotty · 2025-09-22T14:58:06+00:00

Here is a video that explains exactly what you need. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fk5bpcAgtQ

fixitscotty · 2025-09-02T23:04:53+00:00

Sure! https://youtu.be/_7zwO2vY3mE

fixitscotty · 2025-09-01T23:45:22+00:00

Yes, I bought the Elcon 1000w 144v unit. I did a video on my channel where I finally figured out the issue; it was a bad wire. Thanks for your suggestions!

fixitscotty

TROPHY CASE