Battery fuses

[greasypants]

While I wait for my 72v 35amp controller to be repaired/upgraded, I was wondering what to do about battery fuses for my 2 x 36v 18ah nimh packs. They came with 20 amp blade fused which will need to be replaced. Can only find 30 amp fuses at Canadian Tire . I believe they make 35 and 40 amp blade fuses if I search the net but I think the fuse holder is only rated for 30 amps. Do I have to switch to a different type of fuse holder or use 2 blade holders in parallel ? Do I need 40 amps or will 35 amps be O.K. Just want to know what everyone else uses .

 

[knightmb]

That's the same problem I've run into. The fuse holder can't handle the power. You'll probably have to buy one of those solid steel ones that have the screws to connect the wire instead of the wire leads coming out of it. I've seen them at Radio Shack before. I'm sure some exist that can handle a ton of power with thick power leads, just don't know where to find them myself.

 

[xyster]

I bought a 3-pack of 40 amp fuses online from Radioshack:
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2102774&cp=2032058.2032234.2032299&pg=2&parentPage=family
using one in a RS fuseholder for my ebike.

 

[greasypants]

That's interesting Xyster. Radio shack in Canada is now called The Source but do not list that fuse on their website. I will go check in store to see if they carry it . I take it you have new had any problems with that fuse holder melting ?

 

[Lessss]

I think I have a few of them in the basement.

 

[Ypedal]

Check Wal-Mart if you have one locally. I got mine there.

I had Gold-Plated Car audio glass fuses last season, but am going back to blades as they are smaller ( both fuse and holder) and can be soldered in instead of screw on type on the glass system.

 

[greasypants]

Thanks ypedal , I will check them out . Lessss do you remeber where you bought yours ?

 

[xyster]

I take it you have new had any problems with that fuse holder melting ?

No problems at 80v35a. It's rated for 30 amps but the wires I think are 10 gauge.

 

[greasypants]

Thanks ypedal , I will check them out . Lessss do you remeber where you bought yours ?

 

[Lessss]

Inherited with the rest of the jusk in the basement.

 

[Lowell]

I use a pair of weather proof 40 amp automotive blades in parallel. Hidden in the duct tape on my bike are a pair of spare fuses, but hopefully I'll never need to use them.

If in doubt, put a voltmeter across whatever fuse arrangement you end up with, and measure the voltage drop at max amp draw.