I’ve had the itch to do an EV conversion for several years. I’m mostly interested in it as a challenging spare time project and chance to learn more about cars, as well as a project to work on with my kid. I’d done some small engine stuff when I was younger: motorcycles, go-karts, and the like, but this will definitely be a stretch for me. I’ve actually driven a production EV as my primary car for almost 6 years: first a LEAF, and now a Chevy Bolt. Although they may not look like much from the outside, they’re a lot of fun to drive because of their instantly responsive torque and low center of gravity.
Over the months of periodically browsing the classifieds for a car to convert, I found myself being drawn to 124s. The car I finally pulled the trigger on had a pretty clean body with not much rust. The engine seems to have been leaking oil for a while and wouldn’t keep oil pressure, the electronics were flaky, and it has the common issue where the crossmember mounts have broken through the frame rails. The interior is a bit ratty and could use some upgrading as well.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/aPedwghPmXuk5KUY8
Since I’ve gotten the car, I’ve pulled the engine, fuel tank, and all ICE components, as well as the transmission. I disassembled the front suspension, and welded ⅛” steel plate reinforcements into the rails for the crossmember mounts. It’s been a lot of fun so far, and I have a long list of questions building up to ask.
