Chloe Zhang
Power Wheels are popular toys for children, but some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the standard plastic wheels, citing issues with noise, slipperiness, and durability. Modifying Power Wheels to use rubber tires, such as lawn tractor tires, can improve performance on various surfaces and reduce noise. However, it is important to consider the potential impact on gear ratio and motor stress when changing tire diameter. Upgrading batteries and motors can also enhance speed, but compatibility and power management must be carefully addressed to avoid issues such as blown fuses. Gearboxes, in particular, can be challenging to swap between brands due to differences in strength and compatibility. Overall, while modifications can enhance the performance and longevity of Power Wheels, careful planning and craftsmanship are required to ensure a successful outcome.
Swapping out plastic Power Wheels
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for swapping | Plastic wheels are noisy, slippery, don't work on snow or ice, and aren't durable |
| Alternative materials | Rubber |
| Rubber advantages | Quieter, works on snow, more durable |
| Issues with adding traction | Increased stress on the motor |
| Solutions | Fit traction bands, which are rubber strips about the width of a bicycle tire |
| Other modifications | Upgrade batteries, replace switches if the vehicle is 3+ years old, replace wires if dried out |
| Gearboxes | Switching gearboxes from one brand to another is extremely difficult, most "off-brand" cars don't have gearboxes strong enough to take more power |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right replacement wheels
Terrain
Match the wheels to the terrain your child will be using the toy on. Different wheels perform differently on various surfaces. For example, Monster Traction tires are bumpy on pavement, while Mustang tires struggle to gain traction in dirt.
Traction
Power Wheels are known to lose traction over time, especially on certain surfaces, due to their large plastic wheels. Replacing these with rubber tires can significantly improve traction and grip, allowing the toy to perform better outdoors and on a range of surfaces.
Tire Size
When replacing the tires, ensure the new ones are not too small. They should cover at least three-quarters of the plastic wheels, with a focus on matching the centre of the plastic tires, as this area is crucial for traction.
Battery and Motor Compatibility
Upgrading the battery can provide more speed, but it's important to match the battery to the motor to avoid overheating. Stock 550 motors, for example, are designed for 12 volts, and while they can run at 18 volts, they will eventually fail.
Gearbox
Upgrading the gearbox can be a challenging task, but it is important for reliability. Older Power Wheels models used a "#7" gearcase, which has been discontinued. Newer models use a "7R" gearcase, and a Phoenix Gearbox is a suitable upgrade for either of these, providing increased torque and horsepower.
Installation Process
Replacement wheels are typically easy to install, requiring just a few tools. Ensure you have the necessary tools and follow the installation instructions carefully.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right replacement wheels for your Power Wheels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for your child.
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Removing the old wheels
Swapping out plastic Power Wheels can be a fun project, but it requires careful planning and execution. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove the old wheels:
Begin by gathering the necessary tools and materials, such as a new set of wheels, a wrench or screwdriver, and any other specific tools required for your Power Wheels model. It is also recommended to have some basic knowledge of the vehicle's mechanics. Before starting, make sure the Power Wheels vehicle is turned off and the battery is disconnected for safety.
Next, locate the wheel assembly and identify the parts that need to be removed. This may include bolts, nuts, or other fasteners holding the wheel in place. Carefully loosen and remove these fasteners, making sure to keep them organized as you go. If the fasteners are rusty or difficult to remove, you may need to apply penetrating oil or use a rust remover to loosen them safely.
Once the fasteners are removed, carefully pull the old wheel away from the vehicle. Be cautious of any wires or other components that may be attached to the wheel. If there are wires, carefully disconnect them, making note of their routing and ensuring they are not damaged during removal.
At this point, you may need to remove any additional components that are blocking access to the wheel assembly or that are attached to the old wheel. This could include plastic brackets, axle components, or other parts specific to your Power Wheels model. Take note of how these parts fit together for easy reassembly.
Finally, set the old wheel aside and prepare the new wheel for installation. Ensure that the new wheel is compatible with your Power Wheels model and that you have all the necessary parts for a successful installation.
Remember to follow safety precautions and work carefully when removing the old wheels to avoid damage to the vehicle or injury to yourself.
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Replacing the wheel axle
To replace the wheel axle on a Power Wheels vehicle, you will first need to remove the plastic wheels. This can be done by removing the axle end cap, and then the screw underneath that holds the axle in place. Once the screw is removed, the wheels can be taken off.
Next, you will need to remove the small motors, plastic pieces, and the drive/throttle system. This will give you access to the axle, which you can then begin to assemble with the necessary components, such as bearings, a sprocket, and a brake disk. It is important to ensure that the width of the axle is correct for the vehicle; in the example provided, the width limit was 36 inches, so a 36-inch axle was used.
When assembling the axle, it is also important to consider the type of wheels you will be using. For example, if you are using rubber wheels, you may need to adjust the size of the axle to fit the wheels properly. In the case of one user, they had to use PEX water tubing to create a bushing to go from a 7/16" axle to a 1/2" axle in order to accommodate their rubber wheels.
Once the axle is assembled and any necessary adjustments have been made, you can then attach the wheels. It is important to ensure that the wheels are secure and properly aligned. In some cases, you may need to cut into the plastic brackets holding the wheel in place, which can affect alignment and strength.
Finally, you will want to test the vehicle to ensure that the new axle and wheels are functioning properly. This may involve testing the vehicle on different surfaces, such as pavement, snow, or grass, to ensure that the wheels have sufficient traction and performance.
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Electric hook-up
Swapping out plastic Power Wheels for rubber tires is a popular modification that brings several benefits, including improved traction, increased speed, and the ability to drive in various weather conditions and terrain.
One of the critical aspects of this modification is the electric hook-up, which involves upgrading the electrical components to accommodate the new wheels and ensure optimal performance. Here's a detailed guide on how to perform the electric hook-up when swapping out plastic Power Wheels:
Battery Upgrade:
Upgrading the battery is a crucial step when modifying Power Wheels. The stock batteries are typically 12-volt sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries with amperages ranging from 7 to 12. Upgrading to a higher-voltage battery, such as an 18-volt or 24-volt battery, will provide a significant speed boost.
When upgrading the battery, it's essential to match the battery to the motor to ensure compatibility and avoid overheating issues. Additionally, consider using a battery with a higher amp rating, as this will increase the runtime of the Power Wheels.
Motor Upgrade:
Upgrading the motor is often done in conjunction with the battery upgrade to handle the increased voltage and power output. Stock 550 motors are typically designed for 12 volts, and while some users run them at 18 volts, they may eventually fail. Upgrading to Performance 550 or 775 motors will provide increased speed and durability.
Gear Upgrade:
Upgrading the gears is essential to ensure the modified Power Wheels can handle the additional torque and horsepower. Older Power Wheels models used "#7" gearcases, while newer models use "7R" gearcases. The Phoenix Gearbox is a popular upgrade that fits cars with either the "#7" or "7R" gearbox and can handle increased torque and horsepower.
When performing the electric hook-up, follow these steps:
- Install the motor speed control: Hook up the wiring from the vehicle to the motor terminals and connect the battery's wire to the input terminals, ensuring correct polarity.
- Mount the battery: Drill holes in the plastic covering and secure the new battery holder inside the hood of the Power Wheels using long screws.
- Insert the upgraded battery: Place the upgraded battery, such as an 18-volt battery, into the newly mounted battery holder.
- Mount the speed controller: Use straps or industrial-grade adhesive tape to secure the speed controller next to the battery mount.
- Test the setup: Test drive the modified Power Wheels and adjust the speed controller to set a safe and ideal speed for your child.
It's important to note that modifying Power Wheels may void the manufacturer's warranty, so proceed with caution and ensure you have the necessary skills and tools to perform the electric hook-up correctly.
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Testing and maintenance
Battery
Before using a newly purchased power wheel, charge the battery for at least 18 hours. Subsequent charges should take around 14 hours, but always check the user's manual. Keeping the battery charged will make it last longer. If the power wheel is not working, test the battery. If the entire automobile isn't operating, the battery may be depleted or need replacement. If the battery is fine, the forward switch may need repair or replacement. Inspect the pedals for any problems. If the power wheel doesn't move or turn on, there may be a battery problem. Radio, noises, or other electrically powered functions not working also indicate a bad battery.
Wiring and Switches
Inspect the wiring for corrosion, especially if the wires are dried out. Check the switches, too, as they may need replacement, especially if the vehicle is 3+ years old. If there's no response, check the foot pedal switch, battery foot pedal switch, and gear switches. Use a paper clip to jump the pedal wires to test if the pedal is faulty. If the motor starts after jumping the connection, the switch will likely need replacement. Switch contacts between the wiring and pedal systems can get rusted or damaged.
Tires
The tires that come with the car are the ones it was designed to run with. Changing the tire diameter changes the gear ratio and can burn out motors. Adding more traction with rubber or spikes can also cause issues. Therefore, it is important to pick the right vehicle for the terrain it will be used on.
Gears
Upgrading gears is essential for making a modified power wheel reliable. Older models used the "#7" gearcase, which has been discontinued. The Phoenix Gearbox is a direct fit for cars using the "#7" or "7R" gearbox and can handle more torque and horsepower.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic Power Wheels are noisy on pavement, slippery, don't work on snow or ice, and aren't very durable. Rubber tires are super quiet in comparison and can handle snow and ice.
Some ways to add traction include fitting traction bands, which are rubber strips about the width of a bicycle tire, or using truck bed liner spray. However, it is important to note that adding traction will put more stress on the motors and linkages.
It is important to match the right battery to the right motor and to consider that changing tire diameter changes the gear ratio and can burn out motors. Additionally, switches should be replaced if the vehicle is 3+ years old as they may not handle the increased amp draw that comes with speed.
