Generator, and AC to DC conversion

by Mike
(San Antonio, TX)

I want to power a small electric cart with a generator. I have a Honda 3000 watt generator that I take camping. It's very quiet and has electric start. I want to power an electric golf cart off of the generator, not with golf cart batteries. How could I convert the 120 volt AC to 36 volt DC to replace the batteries?


Hi, Mike!

Dan, our motor man, says:

"I think a 3 Kw generator is too small. This equates to a 4 HP motor. IF it were a decent generator I might say OK but these were not meant for this kind of loading.

I would need to know more about what the intent for the vehicle is i.e. range, speed, etc.

36 VDC will take an industrial charger more than likely. These are generally a 230 volt single phase or 230 or 460 volt 3 phase unit.

If insistent on this setup, I would recommend a 120 V VFD if you can get it in 3 or 4 HP rating and a 3 or 4 HP motor. Geared way down to avoid overload. It can work but the golf cart is going to go real slow."

I'm curious myself, Mike, why don't you want to use batteries?

Regards,
Lynne