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[jpaulus]

Hey all,

I'm using a standard charging cable for my 2013 S and I've heard a sparking sound when plugging it in occasionally.  Now that I look inside I see a lot of corrosion in the plug (see attached.)  What can I use to clean this out?  This lead to one of my 2 charging cables getting blown out and the second is now showing signs of damage.

thanks,
Jack

[DPsSRnSD]

A small file on the contacts to remove just enough foreign material to make them shiny again. A flat screwdriver or flat knife to scrape clean the plastic parts.

[DPsSRnSD]

Also, from now on, always plug into the bike first, making sure the connection is solid, before plugging into the wall. When disconnecting, it isn't as important which order you use if you charge to 100% and the app shows no current flow. But it's good practice, and essential if disrupting a charge, to unplug from the wall first.

[rayivers]

Wow, that AC inlet's seriously burnt - I'd replace it ASAP.  This one may work, or a Kobiconn  R-301SN(01) looks like it will snap right in but has screw/solder terminals (yours may use .25" spade terminals, I don't know).  If you can get a part number from that one I can get you a source for it.

Ray

[jpaulus]

Where can I get replacement charging cables?  I don't see any on Zero's web site.

[DPsSRnSD]

Read this for guidance: http://zeromanual.com/index.php/Common_Modifications#Spare_Onboard_Charger_Power_Cables You can find replacement cables at Amazon and Monoprice.

[BrianTRice@gmail.com]

I agree that the inlet should be replaced; the dealer should have a part to order for it but ray's suggestion sounds reasonable if you have the skills.

Also see http://zeromanual.com/index.php/Common_Problems#Charging for general guidance about how to maintain the inlet and cord so they last longer.

There are specific sprays and fluids labeled Contact Cleaner worth using on the prongs once in a while to keep them usable.

[BrianTRice@gmail.com]

There's also a wiki/manual section specifically on charging reliability recommendations:

http://zeromanual.com/index.php/Unofficial_Service_Manual#Charger_Operation

[Erasmo]

Where can I get replacement charging cables?  I don't see any on Zero's web site.

Monoprice is your best choice now. Or just look in your drawers, fat change that you have an old computer cable lying around.

[JaimeC]

Where can I get replacement charging cables?  I don't see any on Zero's web site.

Monoprice is your best choice now. Or just look in your drawers, fat change that you have an old computer cable lying around.

PCs rarely draw the kind of amperage our Zeros do.  I checked all of my cables and none of them are nearly as "thick" as the cord that came with the bike, despite having the same kind of connector.

[Erasmo]

Where can I get replacement charging cables?  I don't see any on Zero's web site.

Monoprice is your best choice now. Or just look in your drawers, fat change that you have an old computer cable lying around.

PCs rarely draw the kind of amperage our Zeros do.  I checked all of my cables and none of them are nearly as "thick" as the cord that came with the bike, despite having the same kind of connector.

The acceptable amperage should be stamped in the cable. 16A should be enough for 110V but if you're smart enough to have 220V 6A will suffice.

[togo]

> > PCs rarely draw the kind of amperage our Zeros do.  I checked all of my cables and none of them are nearly as "thick" as the cord that came with the bike, despite having the same kind of connector.

> The acceptable amperage should be stamped in the cable. 16A should be enough for 110V ...

https://www.monoprice.com/Product?p_id=5292

Looks like their 14 gauge as listed as 15 amp.

But 1300 watts at 110vac is only 11.8 amp, 10.4 amp at 125vac.

> ... but if you're smart enough to have 220V 6A will suffice.

I use a skinnier cable on 220vac and it's great.  If I try to use it on 110v, it does get a little warm, I only do that in emergencies to get me enough juice to get me to the J-plug or Nema 14-50 station, and in these cases I'm checking it.

Another option is to get C13-C14 extensions and an wall outlet adapter.  That gives you more flexibility as you can also carry other adapters to C14 but only one set of cables, so you could e.g. plug into an RV outlet, or a welder,  oven or dryer outlet.