Want to give your child’s ride-on car a serious speed boost? Upgrading the battery of a Power Wheels or similar battery-powered ride-on toy from a standard 12v to an 18v lithium-ion system is a popular modification that can increase speed by around 50%. This guide outlines the essential tools and components you’ll need to safely and effectively perform this upgrade, ensuring your little one enjoys a faster and more thrilling ride. Whether you’re working on Huffy cars, bikes, or other ride-on vehicles, having the right tool kit is the first step to a successful and safe modification.
To tackle a project like this, having the right tools at your disposal is crucial. While you might not use every single tool on every modification, a well-equipped tool kit makes the process smoother, safer, and more professional. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended tools for upgrading your kid’s ride-on vehicle:
Tools You’ll Need:
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Soldering Iron: A soldering iron is indispensable for creating secure and reliable electrical connections. When modifying your ride-on car, you’ll likely need to splice wires, connect the new fuse holder, and ensure robust connections for safety and performance. A quality soldering iron, like this example, provides the heat control needed for delicate electronic work.
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Mini Screwdriver Set: Ride-on cars, much like adult vehicles, are held together with a variety of screws. A mini screwdriver set, such as this versatile set, ensures you have the right size and type of screwdriver for every screw you encounter, preventing damage and making disassembly and reassembly straightforward.
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Wire Strippers: Modifying electrical systems requires working with wires, and wire strippers are essential for safely and cleanly removing insulation without damaging the conductive core. Consistent, clean stripping is vital for making solid electrical connections. These wire strippers are designed for precision and ease of use in automotive and electronic applications.
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Crimpers: Crimpers are used to securely attach connectors to wires. When installing a fuse holder or making other wiring modifications, crimped connections provide a reliable and durable link that’s superior to simply twisting wires together. Using quality crimpers ensures these connections are mechanically and electrically sound.
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Mini Pliers: Mini pliers are incredibly useful for manipulating small components in tight spaces. They can help with bending wires, holding small parts for soldering, and reaching into confined areas within the ride-on car’s chassis. A set of mini pliers like these offers the dexterity needed for intricate work.
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Magnetic Parts Dish: When disassembling parts, especially small screws and metal components, a magnetic parts dish is a lifesaver. It prevents parts from rolling away and getting lost, which is especially helpful in a busy garage or workshop. This magnetic parts dish keeps everything organized and within reach.
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Multimeter: A multimeter is an essential diagnostic tool for any electrical project. It allows you to measure voltage, current, and resistance, helping you to verify connections, diagnose problems, and ensure the electrical system is functioning correctly and safely after your modifications. A reliable multimeter is crucial for safely working with electrical systems.
Essential Components for the 18v Upgrade:
Beyond the toolkit, certain components are necessary to perform the 18v lithium-ion upgrade safely and effectively. These parts ensure compatibility, protection, and optimal performance of your modified ride-on car.
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Fuse Holder: A fuse holder is absolutely critical for safety when upgrading your ride-on car’s battery. It protects the electrical system from overcurrents, which can occur with higher voltage batteries, preventing damage and potential fire hazards. This fuse holder is designed for automotive applications and provides robust protection.
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30A ATC Fuses: Paired with the fuse holder, 30A ATC fuses are the specific type recommended for this modification. These fuses are designed to blow and break the circuit if the current exceeds 30 amps, safeguarding the wiring and components of your ride-on car. These 30A ATC fuses are readily available and essential for safety.
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10ga Wire: Upgrading to a higher voltage system may require thicker gauge wire to handle the increased current. 10 gauge wire is a suitable choice for carrying the power from the battery to the motor and other components, minimizing voltage drop and ensuring efficient power delivery. This 10ga wire is designed for automotive use and can handle the demands of this upgrade.
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Heat Sinks (Optional): While optional, heat sinks can significantly extend the lifespan of your ride-on car’s motors, especially with the increased voltage. They help dissipate heat generated by the motors, keeping them cooler and preventing premature wear. These heat sinks are easy to install and can provide long-term benefits.
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18v Batteries: The heart of the upgrade is the 18v lithium-ion battery. These batteries provide the increased voltage necessary for a speed boost. Ideally, you’ll have extra batteries on hand to keep the fun going. These 18v batteries are commonly available and compatible with many power tool systems, making it easy to find chargers and replacements. You’ll also need to salvage a battery socket from a broken tool or purchase an extra battery charger to connect to the ride-on car’s wiring.
Critical Safety Warnings:
Fuses are Non-Negotiable: Regardless of the battery modifications you undertake on a kids’ ride-on, an inline fuse is absolutely essential. DO NOT SKIP THE FUSE. Adding an aftermarket battery to a ride-on car necessitates the installation of an inline fuse holder. Stock batteries contain internal thermal fuses, and replacing them requires adding external fuse protection. If you are uncertain about any aspect of this, DO NOT PROCEED. Safety should always be your top priority.
Drivetrain Stress: Be aware that overvolting puts increased stress on the stock drivetrain components. Expect gearboxes and motors to wear out more quickly when using a higher voltage. To mitigate this:
- Keep rider weight to a minimum. Avoid overloading the ride-on car with multiple children.
- Do not abruptly switch directions while the vehicle is in motion.
- Allow cooling periods between battery changes to prevent overheating.
- Drive moderately and avoid aggressive maneuvers to prolong the lifespan of components.
By using the right toolkit and components, and adhering to safety guidelines, you can successfully upgrade your child’s ride-on car for enhanced fun and excitement. Remember to prioritize safety and proceed with caution when modifying electrical systems.
