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Makes And Models => Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2013+ => Topic started by: Kill3rT0fu on May 25, 2021, 08:38:18 PM

Title: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Kill3rT0fu on May 25, 2021, 08:38:18 PM
I see the charge tanks are available from AF1 Racing. Is this something I can install myself, or is there a firmware update that needs to be done, AKA does a dealer need to do it?
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: princec on May 25, 2021, 09:29:09 PM
As I understand it there's a firmware tweak too.

Cas :)
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Kill3rT0fu on May 25, 2021, 10:24:19 PM
dangit!!!!! Thanks. I guess that answers my question.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: DonTom on May 26, 2021, 01:28:37 AM
I see the charge tanks are available from AF1 Racing. Is this something I can install myself, or is there a firmware update that needs to be done, AKA does a dealer need to do it?
I have looked at my charge tank, it looks like it would be a big hassle to do yourself, besides the fact that the FW needs to be told it exists.


-Don-  Reno, NV
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Hans2183 on May 26, 2021, 01:35:21 PM
For Zero SRF and SRS this can be done yourself as long as you're not afraid to take off the subframe (seat) to access the spider bus behind the HV battery (after removing HV fuses). Doesn't need FW updates or tweaks just connects with 2 canbus connectors and works. Instructions are on the AF1 website and here https://fotoleer.wordpress.com/2021/01/17/exploded-views-installation-manuals-other-resources-for-zero-sr-f-en-sr-s-electric-motorcycle-owners/
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: DonTom on May 28, 2021, 01:20:11 AM
I see the charge tanks are available from AF1 Racing. Is this something I can install myself, or is there a firmware update that needs to be done, AKA does a dealer need to do it?
I have looked at my charge tank, it looks like it would be a big hassle to do yourself, besides the fact that the FW needs to be told it exists.


-Don-  Reno, NV
Disregard, I am getting the charge tank and power tank confused-again!  I have the powertank, not the charge tank.


-Don-
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: UlsterZero on May 28, 2021, 10:00:31 PM
I fitted the charge tank to my 2017 SR myself, and it has worked ok so far (just about a year now).  Fitting it wasn't too difficult, although, as with all zero accessories, there were no instructions provided.  It didn't need any firmware tweaks to make it work, which is just as well, as there are no dealers here anyway...

The only bit that I was slightly concerned about was attaching the charger to the battery connections on the controller, but I took the usual precautions: run the battery down first, keep it keyed off for a while, then use a multi meter to check and ensure there was no residual voltage at the terminals before I connecting the charger lines.

Not sure if it was strictly necessary, but I also updated the firmware to the latest version before I started the install...

UlsterZero
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Auriga on May 28, 2021, 11:45:54 PM
I see the charge tanks are available from AF1 Racing. Is this something I can install myself, or is there a firmware update that needs to be done, AKA does a dealer need to do it?
I have looked at my charge tank, it looks like it would be a big hassle to do yourself, besides the fact that the FW needs to be told it exists.


-Don-  Reno, NV

Not quite. The firmware needs to be updated past the point where they add support for the charge tank, but there's no actual configuration required. It's usually just plug and play. Occasionally, they'll find something didn't quite work in the firmware but it's pretty rare.

For premium FST bikes, its the same principle, but almost all the FW you're likely to have supports it.  For standard bikes, you need to modify the battery with an accessory connection panel.

I'd say it's pretty easy for an owner on a non FST bike, somewhat easy on a premium FST bike, and fairly involved on a standard FST bike.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Kill3rT0fu on May 29, 2021, 04:35:21 AM
I see the charge tanks are available from AF1 Racing. Is this something I can install myself, or is there a firmware update that needs to be done, AKA does a dealer need to do it?
I have looked at my charge tank, it looks like it would be a big hassle to do yourself, besides the fact that the FW needs to be told it exists.


-Don-  Reno, NV

Not quite. The firmware needs to be updated past the point where they add support for the charge tank, but there's no actual configuration required. It's usually just plug and play. Occasionally, they'll find something didn't quite work in the firmware but it's pretty rare.

For premium FST bikes, its the same principle, but almost all the FW you're likely to have supports it.  For standard bikes, you need to modify the battery with an accessory connection panel.

I'd say it's pretty easy for an owner on a non FST bike, somewhat easy on a premium FST bike, and fairly involved on a standard FST bike.

Leads to another question
 I have the 2021 model and haven't seen a firmware update yet via the app. Are there different firmware updates that are dealer exclusive?
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Auriga on May 29, 2021, 05:17:55 AM
I see the charge tanks are available from AF1 Racing. Is this something I can install myself, or is there a firmware update that needs to be done, AKA does a dealer need to do it?
I have looked at my charge tank, it looks like it would be a big hassle to do yourself, besides the fact that the FW needs to be told it exists.


-Don-  Reno, NV

Not quite. The firmware needs to be updated past the point where they add support for the charge tank, but there's no actual configuration required. It's usually just plug and play. Occasionally, they'll find something didn't quite work in the firmware but it's pretty rare.
If you have the 2021 model, you're probably up to date. Bikes get updated maybe once or twice a year, on average. Often coinciding with the launch of a new MY.

For premium FST bikes, its the same principle, but almost all the FW you're likely to have supports it.  For standard bikes, you need to modify the battery with an accessory connection panel.

I'd say it's pretty easy for an owner on a non FST bike, somewhat easy on a premium FST bike, and fairly involved on a standard FST bike.

Leads to another question
 I have the 2021 model and haven't seen a firmware update yet via the app. Are there different firmware updates that are dealer exclusive?
No, there are no dealer specific firmwares. We install the same thing you do with your phone. We can certainly update more FW though. Things like charge tank firmware on older bikes or FST charge firmware or motor controller FW, for example.
We do have configuration options, like enabling heated grips or led turn signals on FST though. Charge tanks don't require it though.

If you have the 2021 bike, chances are there are no real upgrades. Firmware usually gets updated once or twice a year, often coinciding with the launch of a new MY.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Kill3rT0fu on May 29, 2021, 11:15:43 PM
I see the charge tanks are available from AF1 Racing. Is this something I can install myself, or is there a firmware update that needs to be done, AKA does a dealer need to do it?
I have looked at my charge tank, it looks like it would be a big hassle to do yourself, besides the fact that the FW needs to be told it exists.


-Don-  Reno, NV

Not quite. The firmware needs to be updated past the point where they add support for the charge tank, but there's no actual configuration required. It's usually just plug and play. Occasionally, they'll find something didn't quite work in the firmware but it's pretty rare.
If you have the 2021 model, you're probably up to date. Bikes get updated maybe once or twice a year, on average. Often coinciding with the launch of a new MY.

For premium FST bikes, its the same principle, but almost all the FW you're likely to have supports it.  For standard bikes, you need to modify the battery with an accessory connection panel.

I'd say it's pretty easy for an owner on a non FST bike, somewhat easy on a premium FST bike, and fairly involved on a standard FST bike.

Leads to another question
 I have the 2021 model and haven't seen a firmware update yet via the app. Are there different firmware updates that are dealer exclusive?
No, there are no dealer specific firmwares. We install the same thing you do with your phone. We can certainly update more FW though. Things like charge tank firmware on older bikes or FST charge firmware or motor controller FW, for example.
We do have configuration options, like enabling heated grips or led turn signals on FST though. Charge tanks don't require it though.

If you have the 2021 bike, chances are there are no real upgrades. Firmware usually gets updated once or twice a year, often coinciding with the launch of a new MY.

Awesome. Thanks for the info. Does the tank come with instructions to install?
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Auriga on May 30, 2021, 12:35:01 AM
No instructions are provided. Zero assumes it is a dealer installed part, and the instructions for installing it are in the dealer documentation
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: flynnstig82r on May 30, 2021, 08:50:15 PM
So I can remove my 2.5 kW charge tank myself and not have to pay a dealer? This is great news!
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Auriga on May 30, 2021, 10:21:39 PM
So I can remove my 2.5 kW charge tank myself and not have to pay a dealer? This is great news!

Sure there's nothing to stop you from doing that. The 2.5kw has the added wrinkle of the connection to the onboard charger, but its just one more pluig.

Be sure you have the blanking plug for the charge tank signal connector.If you remove it and don't have it, the bike will not run.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: SonOfAnakin on June 16, 2021, 12:56:33 AM
I'm about to embark on a DIY charge tank install on a 2021 SR.  I'm fairly mechanically and electrically skilled and tooled.  However, I'm unclear on what the Zero Discharge Tool might be and how I could proceed without it, aside from riding the bike in circles or on a stand until it's dead.  Does anyone know what this tool is and what it is doing so that I can try achieve the same without the Zero tool.  I'm assuming only the dealers get to have the tool.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Flybuddy on June 16, 2021, 01:56:32 AM
Here's installation instructions and a video:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U7Y39UUoBWR6j5eCF76y37-46xcYEw9s/view
https://www.facebook.com/rj.rides/videos/10154307521054711
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Flybuddy on June 16, 2021, 01:59:19 AM
Instructions:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U7Y39UUoBWR6j5eCF76y37-46xcYEw9s/view
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: SonOfAnakin on June 16, 2021, 02:44:16 AM
Yes, thanks.  I have that.  It says "Perform the High Voltage Discharge Procedure as provided in the Service Manual to ensure that the motorcycle controller is fully discharged."

I don't have the service manual so I do not know what this entails.  Is the service manual available somewhere that describes this procedure?
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: scottwstevenson on June 16, 2021, 08:19:59 AM
SOA,

The unofficial Zero manual (see below) is invaluable!  I'd read that through on any and all related topics before trying anything like this.

I was going to do the same but was told it would void the warranty on my bike, so...

https://zeromanual.com/wiki/De-Energize_Controller

-Scott
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: SonOfAnakin on June 16, 2021, 06:32:42 PM
SOA,

The unofficial Zero manual (see below) is invaluable!  I'd read that through on any and all related topics before trying anything like this.

I was going to do the same but was told it would void the warranty on my bike, so...

https://zeromanual.com/wiki/De-Energize_Controller

-Scott

Thank you!  I searched there many times but just didn’t use quite the right terms I guess. Thanks again.

I’m torn on the warranty voiding.  How long will the dealership have my bike if I have them do it?  Do they charge additional for the install or is it included in the price of the tank?

Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Flybuddy on June 16, 2021, 08:22:26 PM
SOA,

The unofficial Zero manual (see below) is invaluable!  I'd read that through on any and all related topics before trying anything like this.

I was going to do the same but was told it would void the warranty on my bike, so...

https://zeromanual.com/wiki/De-Energize_Controller

-Scott

Thank you!  I searched there many times but just didn’t use quite the right terms I guess. Thanks again.

I’m torn on the warranty voiding.  How long will the dealership have my bike if I have them do it?  Do they charge additional for the install or is it included in the price of the tank?

I had noticed on the facebook video (which was a dealer install) that someone asked the "how long" question and the response was that they charged for 3 hours. Sounds possible to wait for it instead of leaving it.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: SonOfAnakin on July 11, 2021, 12:19:44 AM
Well, my dealer did quote me a same day install, but was marking up the price of the charge tank and adding a decent fee for the install.  I don't fault them, they gotta make a buck.  But when I'm capable of doing it myself, and they are 2.5 hours away, saving the money and the time, energy, and expense of getting the bike there, starts to look really good.  So I ordered the tank from AF1 today.  And threw in a windshield with the money I'm saving.  :)

Wish me luck on the install!
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: evdjerome on July 11, 2021, 03:40:21 AM
Let us know how long it takes from the time you order it from AF1 and when you receive it.

Also it would be awesome if you could document your install, or at least take pics to point out any tricky parts.

What year bike do you have? Will you have to remove the helmet lock?

Well, my dealer did quote me a same day install, but was marking up the price of the charge tank and adding a decent fee for the install.  I don't fault them, they gotta make a buck.  But when I'm capable of doing it myself, and they are 2.5 hours away, saving the money and the time, energy, and expense of getting the bike there, starts to look really good.  So I ordered the tank from AF1 today.  And threw in a windshield with the money I'm saving.  :)

Wish me luck on the install!
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: SonOfAnakin on July 11, 2021, 07:01:53 AM
My SR is a 2021. No helmet lock to remove.

I’ll see what I can do to document. I take advantage of so many other people’s work to document their processes but I really suck at doing it myself. I’ll manage something. Just might not be as well done as other stuff you’ve seen.  I do promise to put whatever I create somewhere other than Facebook, though. ;-)
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: DonTom on July 11, 2021, 08:53:51 AM
My SR is a 2021. No helmet lock to remove.

I’ll see what I can do to document. I take advantage of so many other people’s work to document their processes but I really suck at doing it myself. I’ll manage something. Just might not be as well done as other stuff you’ve seen.  I do promise to put whatever I create somewhere other than Facebook, though. ;-)
"A photo is worth a thousand words".


If possible, take photos of anything you consider to be tricky.


-Don-  Reno, NV



Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: evdjerome on August 04, 2021, 04:05:40 AM
Any update on this?

My SR is a 2021. No helmet lock to remove.

I’ll see what I can do to document. I take advantage of so many other people’s work to document their processes but I really suck at doing it myself. I’ll manage something. Just might not be as well done as other stuff you’ve seen.  I do promise to put whatever I create somewhere other than Facebook, though. ;-)
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Flybuddy on August 08, 2021, 09:53:47 PM
Had a charge tank installed on a 21 S at dealer last week. Discount I got on tank (due to purchasing bike there) covered most of install cost. Had an odd problem with it. Since I've got fairly aggressive handlebar risers which move bars both up and back, the disconnect button on some J1772 plugs won't allow the plug to lock on fully. I took the tank off today and put some bushings under the front of the charge receptacle to tip it back some which hopefully fixes the issue.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Shadow on August 09, 2021, 12:53:27 AM
...Since I've got fairly aggressive handlebar risers which move bars both up and back, the disconnect button on some J1772 plugs won't allow the plug to lock on fully...
Fox 2-in risers work but only just barely; have to loosen to take the tank on/off. There's alternate DIY inlet locations if you can't make that work.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Flybuddy on August 09, 2021, 01:41:24 AM
...Since I've got fairly aggressive handlebar risers which move bars both up and back, the disconnect button on some J1772 plugs won't allow the plug to lock on fully...
Fox 2-in risers work but only just barely; have to loosen to take the tank on/off. There's alternate DIY inlet locations if you can't make that work.

I took a ride to a chargepoint and it's got reasonable clearance now and worked fine. Curious as to what the alternate DIY locations are?
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: Kill3rT0fu on August 09, 2021, 06:29:01 AM
...Since I've got fairly aggressive handlebar risers which move bars both up and back, the disconnect button on some J1772 plugs won't allow the plug to lock on fully...
Fox 2-in risers work but only just barely; have to loosen to take the tank on/off. There's alternate DIY inlet locations if you can't make that work.

I took a ride to a chargepoint and it's got reasonable clearance now and worked fine. Curious as to what the alternate DIY locations are?

https://www.electricmotorcycleforum.com/boards/index.php?topic=9764.msg104264#msg104264

Under the seat, above the motor
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: ceejays88 on September 05, 2023, 04:44:03 AM

Sure there's nothing to stop you from doing that. The 2.5kw has the added wrinkle of the connection to the onboard charger, but its just one more pluig.

Be sure you have the blanking plug for the charge tank signal connector.If you remove it and don't have it, the bike will not run.

Sorry to revive and old thread...
Do you know where this connector is? Or have a pic of what it looks like with the blanking plate?

I've got the opportunity to buy a 2.5kw charger for my 2015 S, but can't find where the signal cable connects to the bike.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: MVetter on September 05, 2023, 07:25:48 AM
The 2.5kW units were crappy and discontinued quickly because they were inconsistent and failed.
Title: Re: Charge tanks - dealer installed or can I DIY?
Post by: ceejays88 on September 05, 2023, 01:31:23 PM
The 2.5kW units were crappy and discontinued quickly because they were inconsistent and failed.

Maybe, but my onboard has died.. twice, and getting thrid party chargers now are near impossible.
And I don't have £2500 spare to buy the 6.6kw version.