Bionx Battery - 26V battery on a PL350 system?

[hchiew]

Hi, not sure if this question has been asked. It was a bit difficult to search the past topics. I have a PL350 system with CANBUS communication and downtube battery. I'm thinking of replacing the battery but am finding it difficult to pay so much for a new 36V battery. I was wondering if I can use a 24V battery for the PL350 system? I know that the 24V battery is meant for PL250 system. Is it compatible, and does it mean that I'll just get less power with the 24V battery?

 

[bionx 1954]

It wont work. A 36v system has a LVC (low voltage cut off) of 27-30V. So 24-26V is to LOW. I know the OEM battery is SUPER overpriced. Some members have replaced the Sony Konions cells in the battery for a lot less cost.

 

[mlt34]

Is it not possible to slap on any other ebike battery for a huge savings overall? Or are you trying to preserve the aesthetic of the bike?

 

[hchiew]

I have no idea how to retrofit other ebike battery on my BionX. I've been trying to look for a BionX 36V battery at a cheaper price for a while now.

 

[mlt34]

I have no idea how to retrofit other ebike battery on my BionX. I've been trying to look for a BionX 36V battery at a cheaper price for a while now.

I don't have much experience with bionx kits, but I assume it is as simple as splicing into the existing power wires that go to the standard battery. If you connect the positive and negative wires of a new (non bionx) battery to those wires, you should be golden. Then you can buy a much cheaper battery and stick it anywhere on the bike you want.

 

[mlt34]

So here is your battery mount. I'm not so familiar with the bionx kit. The fat cable coming off is obviously the battery power leads, but what's the little wire? Some type of temperature sensor, or something else?

Theoretically, I imagine all you would have to do is cut that fat wire, then connect a different 36V battery, such as this one: http://www.leafbike.com/u_file/product/13_01_01/30e4acc43e.jpg

The only thing that might cause an issue is that little wire. I don't know what its purpose is, so there's a chance that if it's not connected, the controller might freak out and not let you drive. Anyone know what that thing is? Or have a manual for that system?

 

[bionx 1954]

I had a PL250 once, and did splice into the battery connectors inside the battery with a external 24V battery to extend the range. Yes it worked for a while, but then it stopped working . Inside is a PC board that blew, and shut the whole system down.. It was still under warranty so I got a new board. But I would not try it again. Inside the 36 V battery are Sony VT cells 10S 4/5 P. If I needed a new battery I would replace the cells. Maybe some one of the ES members could rebuild it for you.