Engine is not worth repairing, so after extensive online rabbit holing for solutions I've decided to try and convert to electric.
In my ownership the car was only ever used as a local runabout, it was sluggish and rarely went too far as it's top usable speed was about 60. So I'm not overly concerned about range and performance from the EV conversion.
If I can get a range of 60 odd miles from a full charge that will amply cover all my needs for this car, and I have no interest in drag racing it.
From what I've read so far I think a Leaf motor with a 24kw battery pack is best suited to the above given considerations of availability and price.
One of my first questions would be assuming the Leaf turns out be the choice for parts, am I better to source the bits in the UK or Northern Ireland rather than ROI. It seems like price and availability might be better there. And presumably it is cheaper to buy a entire donor car rather than everything individually?
In terms of carrying out the conversion, I have only basic mechanical knowledge from arsing about with old cars over the years.
One plan is to attempt the conversion with my cousin who is very mechanically minded having done engine swaps and built a drift car etc.
Is it feasible to do the install - i.e fit motor, mount battery packs etc and then get somebody with experience of EVs to complete wiring and electrics? If that's an option it is attractive from a safety point of view.
Very much still in the early stages of this, just reading, researching and learning so just starting the thread as part of that process, open to all comments, suggestions and advice and will update as I go! TIA!
