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Makes And Models => Zero Motorcycles Forum | 2013+ => Topic started by: domingo3 on July 09, 2018, 11:29:39 PM

Title: NEMA L6-20 for charging?
Post by: domingo3 on July 09, 2018, 11:29:39 PM

We are just moving into a rental house today and I noticed it has a NEMA L6-20 plug in the garage. I just use the onboard charger for my FXS. Do you think I should get a cord to use this outlet?  It should run higher voltage, lower current. I guess that would drop cord heating a bit, but would the higher voltage make it more likely to arc when connecting/disconnecting?  I have no practical experience with these and am just wondering if it's even worth thinking about.

Title: Re: NEMA L6-20 for charging?
Post by: jnef on July 10, 2018, 01:26:36 AM

Yes, use the L6-20.  Charging at 240vac will cut the current in half, significantly lowering cable heating as you note.  Cable heat is I^2R. 

Title: Re: NEMA L6-20 for charging?
Post by: Lenny on July 10, 2018, 01:54:18 AM

Actually arcing is more a thing of a high current flow in the moment of connection rather then voltage. But the capacitors of the charger will probably fill up faster with higher voltage, so that does result in higher current.

However you can decide where it will arc and chose the component which is easier to replace. That will be the wall connector. So connect to the bike first and then plug the cable into the wall. That way you prevent the arcing from happening in the motorcycle connector.

Title: Re: NEMA L6-20 for charging?
Post by: domingo3 on July 12, 2018, 09:30:02 AM

Would these be good ones to get?  https://www.stayonline.com/nema-20-amp-locking-plug-208v.aspx

Anyone have suggestions?