How can I (safely) test this "toy" machine?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around troubleshooting and testing a toy machine, specifically a battery-powered vehicle. Participants explore methods to determine the functionality of the motor and battery, as well as potential issues with the circuit board and connections. The scope includes practical testing, electrical safety, and mechanical troubleshooting.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests connecting two car batteries in series to test the motor, emphasizing safety precautions against high current.
  • Another participant proposes using a stout older battery charger to test the motor unloaded, indicating that it should turn without unusual noises if functioning properly.
  • A participant reports confusion regarding the battery configuration, initially believing there were two batteries, but later clarifying it may be a single 24V battery pack made of two 12V batteries.
  • Concerns are raised about the battery's condition after prolonged exposure to the elements, with skepticism about the charger indicating it was fully charged.
  • Some participants speculate that the motor may have only enough power to turn over briefly, suggesting the battery might not be holding a charge.
  • One participant mentions the possibility of a faulty connection in the gear shift, noting that the vehicle only operates intermittently.
  • Another participant discusses testing continuity of wires and connections using a multimeter, while cautioning about potential damage to the meter.
  • There is a suggestion to bypass a switch that appears to be malfunctioning to see if it resolves the issue with the forward motion of the vehicle.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the condition of the battery and the functionality of the motor and circuit board. There is no consensus on the exact cause of the issues, with multiple competing views on troubleshooting methods and potential faults.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations in understanding the battery configuration and the potential for misdiagnosis of the original fault. There are unresolved questions about the effectiveness of the charging methods and the specifics of the vehicle's wiring and components.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY electronics repair, troubleshooting battery-powered devices, or those looking for practical advice on testing and safety precautions in similar scenarios.

  • #31
DaveC426913 said:
The catch is that the gear shift is designed to mechanically push on the switch
Might be a bit more tweaking, but maybe you could just replace the whole assembly?
He5e3374bf6a74011b6a82182c036c35ew.jpg


Ali apparently has some...
 
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  • #32
Ummm, aren't we forgetting something?
Averagesupernova said:
Oh one last thing, when you get it running please post a pic with you driving it? 😆

DaveC426913 said:
You bet I will!
 
  • #33
DaveC426913 said:
Yes, I have Googled them muchly.

The catch is that the gear shift is designed to mechanically push on the switch - switch and gear shift are affixed in a framework so they come together just right. I don't think there's a lot of margin for error, so it has to be virtually the exact switch.

(The switch button itself is flat, not concave - not curved or notched - and it is opaque red, not transparent. Too bad I can't just point to a Google pic to show you what I mean...)

Also, it's 2-position, temporary-on. Most of those are 3-position.I have yet to find anything similar online.
Does this help:

There is also the official authorized Peg Perego retailers' list for parts & service in Canada.
 
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