Rich Rebuilds is a dynamic channel dedicated to the fascinating world of electric vehicle modification and repair. Led by Rich Benoit, the channel showcases the ingenuity and passion involved in breathing new life into unique vehicles, often focusing on Teslas and other innovative electric cars. Viewers can expect engaging content that highlights cost-effective solutions and creative problem-solving in the EV space.
The channel's signature style involves tackling ambitious projects, from V8-swapping Teslas to rescuing and refurbishing vehicles like the Fisker Ocean. Rich Rebuilds demystifies complex automotive processes, offering insights into battery replacements, dealership disputes, and the broader landscape of electric vehicle ownership, all presented with a healthy dose of "general shenanigans" and a commitment to transparency.
The channel's signature style involves tackling ambitious projects, from V8-swapping Teslas to rescuing and refurbishing vehicles like the Fisker Ocean. Rich Rebuilds demystifies complex automotive processes, offering insights into battery replacements, dealership disputes, and the broader landscape of electric vehicle ownership, all presented with a healthy dose of "general shenanigans" and a commitment to transparency.
Can You Drown a Tesla Motor?
This episode of Rich Rebuilds details the investigation into the water resistance of a Tesla Model A drive unit after being submerged for ten days. While the car's electronics powered up after pressure washing, the motor itself did not fare as well. The video demonstrates the process of removing ...
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Driving the Tesla Powered AWD Chevy Squarebody Pickup Truck!
This video showcases an impressive custom-built electric Chevrolet Squarebody pickup truck by the 'Salvage to Savage' crew. The host, Rich, ... morehighlights the extensive modifications, including a Tesla Model S Long Range drive unit for the front and a Model 3 battery pack for the rear, all integrated with a Corvette C5/C6 suspension and K-member. The build features a custom widebody kit, unique interior with a Polestar screen for controls, and a three-pedal setup with adjustable regenerative braking. While the truck is visually stunning and demonstrates significant engineering prowess, the reviewer notes that the suspension is not yet finalized, leading to a bouncy ride. The video also touches upon the challenges of custom EV builds and the passion of the builders. Overall, it's a deep dive into a unique and ambitious electric conversion. less
We Find the Craziest EV Conversions at SEMA
Rich Rebuilds ventures into the wild world of SEMA, focusing on the most outlandish EV conversions rather than mainstream offerings. The video highlig... morehts innovative projects like an electric V12 flathead engine replacement for hot rods, designed to retain traditional aesthetics while embracing electric power. Another standout is a 1976 Porsche 911 RSR conversion by Electric GT, featuring a Tesla motor and a comprehensive bolt-in system for early Porsches. The review also showcases a high-performance electric crate motor from Hypercraft, boasting impressive power and advanced liquid cooling. While the episode celebrates creativity, it underscores the complexity of EV conversions, often requiring specialized knowledge and components, and touches upon the financial justifications EV owners make. The overall impression is that SEMA's EV presence is more about extreme customization and niche applications than everyday practicality. less
We Took The World's First V8 Tesla To SEMA And It Was A Wild Ride
The video chronicles the journey to SEMA with a unique V8-swapped Tesla, highlighting the unconventional build process and the vehicle's receptio... moren. The reviewer emphasizes that the V8 conversion was a necessity due to the car being a flood-damaged Tesla that the manufacturer wouldn't support with parts. While acknowledging potential criticisms of it being 'slower' or 'worse,' the reviewer defends the build as making the car 'cooler' and faster than its submerged state. The SEMA event itself is depicted as a place where existing cars are 'literated with useless garbage,' with the V8 Tesla standing out amidst a focus on electric vehicles. The journey to SEMA was fraught with minor mishaps, including tire issues and logistical challenges, adding a layer of 'wacky adventure' to the narrative. The video also touches upon the broader automotive trends at SEMA, including a strong EV presence, and features interactions with other builders and enthusiasts, including a former Tesla engineer who approves of the project. less
Solving the V8 Tesla's Biggest Problem
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on crucial cooling and heat management for the V8-swapped Tesla project, with SEMA just two weeks away. The team... more tackles heat remediation for the cabin and the front end, aiming to improve airflow without drastically altering the bumper's appearance. Key tasks include fabricating a bracket for the Haltech i7 display, repairing a damaged radiator support with epoxy and metal reinforcement, and carpeting the transmission tunnel for a cleaner look. Significant effort is also dedicated to creating custom ducting using dryer vent material and acrylic to direct airflow to the radiator and potentially the brakes or headers. The video highlights the challenges of integrating aftermarket components, such as a broken radiator support and fitting a larger radiator, which impacts frunk space. The team also addresses the complexities of the Tesla's electronics, including a workaround for the charge port alert system. Despite setbacks like a damaged part, the progress made on cooling and interior finishing is evident, though the looming deadline and 3000-mile trip to SEMA create considerable pressure. less
Giving Our Tesla a Race Car Sequential Shifter, With Family
This episode documents the intricate process of installing a sequential shifter into a V8-swapped Tesla Model S, affectionately dubbed the 'eBay ... moreMotors Special.' The team tackles several significant challenges, including adapting the rear seats to accommodate the new transmission tunnel and integrating the shifter itself, which allows for a more direct, forward-and-back gear selection compared to a traditional H-pattern. Key problem-solving areas highlighted include relocating the washer fluid reservoir to make space for the clutch slave cylinder and devising a method to display the gear indicator within the car's air vents for at-a-glance readability. The video also touches upon the critical need for heat shielding around the V8 engine and exhaust components, given the Tesla's original design did not account for such heat generation. Additionally, the team discusses the problematic magnesium front radiator support, its tendency to corrode and crack, and the difficulties in sourcing a suitable replacement, opting for a temporary retrofit. While the focus is on the mechanical build, a significant portion of the video also includes unrelated news segments and promotional content. less
The Truth About the $22,500 Tesla Battery Repair
This video addresses the controversy surrounding a $22,500 Tesla battery repair, with the host, Rich, issuing an apology for misrepresenting the invoi... morece date in a previous video. He clarifies that while the invoice was from 2019, the repair cost of approximately $21,500 for a 2013 Model S battery replacement is accurate, even when obtained via phone quote. The discussion delves into the broader issues of EV repair costs, the right to repair, and the cult-like following surrounding Tesla and Elon Musk. Rich highlights that while he acknowledges Tesla's innovation, he also points out build quality issues and the company's resistance to third-party repair. The video features a conversation with Louis Rossman, emphasizing the common thread of fighting against 'tyrannical control' in various aspects of society, including vehicle ownership. Ultimately, the video advocates for consumer choice in vehicle servicing and repair, suggesting that a rising tide lifts all ships in the independent EV repair community. less
Tesla Wanted Him to Pay $22500 to Replace a Battery Pack, We Did It for 75% Less!
This video details the significant cost disparity between Tesla's official battery replacement quote and the price offered by independent repair ... moreshops like Rich Rebuilds. The featured vehicle, a 2013 Tesla Model S 85, was quoted $22,500 by Tesla for a battery pack replacement due to expired warranty and reduced range. Rich Rebuilds successfully repaired the battery by replacing individual faulty modules and upgrading the fuse for a total cost of approximately $5,500, a saving of over 75%. The review highlights the critical importance of the right to repair movement, emphasizing how independent shops provide a more affordable alternative for out-of-warranty repairs, preventing owners from facing exorbitant costs that approach or exceed the vehicle's market value. The video also touches upon the challenges independent repairers face in accessing parts and schematics, contrasting it with the manufacturer's control over repairs. less
We Built a Tesla Bot Before Tesla Could and It Cost Us Everything
This video chronicles the "Rich Rebuilds" team's ambitious project to construct their own "Tesla Bot" in response to Tesla�... more39;s own development. The hosts express skepticism about Tesla's approach to AI and automation, particularly regarding the Teslabot's design and potential impact on employment. They critique Tesla's product announcements and delivery timelines, using the Roadster and Full Self-Driving as examples of perceived overpromising. The core of the video showcases their build process, highlighting the use of recycled EV parts (Nissan Leaf modules, old EV conversion pumps) and a humorous, "Americanized" aesthetic for their bot, contrasting it with Tesla's sleek prototype. While the build is presented as a "better" alternative, the hosts ultimately demonstrate their bot's limitations and the unreliability of Tesla's FSD by having their bot drive a Tesla that struggles with basic autonomous functions. The review concludes with a cynical take on job displacement and the perceived inefficiencies of both Tesla's bot and its autonomous driving technology. less
Making the Ls V8 Powered Teslas One of a Kind Interior
This video chronicles the extensive interior work on the V8-swapped Tesla Model S, dubbed 'Iced Tea,' ahead of its SEMA show debut. The Rich... more Rebuilds team showcases significant custom fabrication, including merging multiple door panels, creating a unique transmission tunnel to accommodate the V8, and integrating a custom yoke steering wheel. While the team emphasizes their commitment to quality and OEM-like functionality, the process is depicted as labor-intensive and fraught with challenges, including extensive wiring simplification and custom routing of brake lines within the cabin due to space constraints. The review highlights the team's dedication to a high-quality, potentially daily-drivable build, contrasting it with typical SEMA show cars. The video also touches on the complexities of Tesla's electronics and the team's efforts to retain some functionality, despite the V8 conversion. less
World's First Deep Look Under the Tesla Model S Plaid
The reviewer provides an in-depth, albeit somewhat critical, look at the Tesla Model S Plaid, focusing heavily on its underpinnings and design changes... more. While acknowledging the Plaid's blistering performance and significant upgrades in areas like motors, cooling, and interior refinement (including active noise cancellation), the reviewer expresses frustration with Tesla's continued lack of user-friendliness and repairability. Specific criticisms are leveled at the unconventional controls, such as the lack of physical stalks for turn signals and gear selection, and the potential for accidental activation of features. The reviewer also notes some concerning build quality issues, like a leaking pump seal and poorly routed cables, despite the overall high-end feel. Ultimately, while recognizing the Plaid's value for its performance, the reviewer personally prefers vehicles with more distinct styling, like the Roadster, and reiterates concerns about Tesla's repair policies. less
We Took Our Mad Max Off-Road Tesla Model 3 to the Supercharger and Were Pleasantly Disappointed
The Rich Rebuilds channel showcases their "Mad Max" off-road Tesla Model 3, pushing its limits through mud and water. While the vehicle demo... morenstrates surprising capability in extreme conditions, the experiment highlights the fragility of its stock components, with bumpers detaching and control arms needing upgrades for serious off-roading. A key focus is the attempt to use Tesla Superchargers with a salvaged Model 3. Initially, the car successfully charges after a payment method is added, suggesting a shift in Tesla's policy for salvaged vehicles, potentially driven by revenue rather than safety concerns as previously claimed. However, this success is short-lived, as charging is quickly disabled. The reviewer expresses disappointment, likening the experience to taking back an abusive ex, indicating a loss of faith in Tesla's practices and a move towards other platforms for daily driving. less
We Built The World's Most Capable Off-Road Tesla
This video chronicles an ambitious project: transforming a Tesla Model 3 into an off-road capable vehicle. The creators, in collaboration with Grind H... moreard Plumbing Co., successfully modified a Model 3, adding an exoskeleton, lifted suspension, off-road tires, and a winch, effectively creating a unique "off-road Tesla." While the build process highlights impressive fabrication skills and the potential for EV modification, the review notes the inherent limitations of the Model 3's design for such extreme use, particularly its low ground clearance and the impracticality of white interior for off-roading. The video also touches upon the Model 3's appeal as a daily driver but criticizes its aesthetics. Ultimately, the project showcases a creative, albeit unconventional, approach to EV customization, demonstrating that even a car not designed for rugged terrain can be adapted with significant modifications. less
Tesla Wanted $16,000 to Fix This New Model 3, We Did It for $700! The Importance of Right to Repair!
This video highlights a critical issue for EV owners: the exorbitant cost of repairs and the "Right to Repair" movement. The reviewer detail... mores a case where a brand new Tesla Model 3 sustained minor damage to a coolant tube, leading Tesla to quote a staggering $16,000 for a full battery replacement. The owner, unable to afford this or get insurance coverage, turned to Electrified Garage. The shop successfully repaired the broken nipple on the battery pack's coolant line for approximately $700 by using a clever plumbing-based solution. The video strongly criticizes Tesla's approach of assembly replacement over component repair, emphasizing that such practices make EVs inaccessible for many. It serves as a powerful awareness piece for the importance of third-party repair options and the need for manufacturers to support them. less
Powering Our DIY Solar Sprinter Van Under Its Own Batteries
This video documents the significant progress made on the Sprinter van build, focusing on transitioning the vehicle to a fully off-grid solar-powered ... moresystem. The host details the installation of two 200 amp-hour Relion lithium iron phosphate batteries, housed in a custom-built external steel box to maximize interior space. Key features highlighted include the completion of cabinetry with a Japanese tea house-inspired design, featuring Shoji-style doors with frosted plexiglass for privacy, and the integration of a shower with a wide-angle camera for safety. The reviewer expresses excitement about the van's readiness for adventure, noting the successful activation of the solar charging system which is providing ample power for the van's appliances. The build appears to be on track, with a strong emphasis on practical, space-saving solutions and safety features. less
Fixing Our Ls Swapped V8 Teslas Range Anxiety By Installing A Fuel Cell
This episode of the V8 Tesla build focuses on addressing range anxiety by installing a new, significantly more robust fuel cell system, replacing the ... moreprevious makeshift solution. The presenter highlights the superior quality and functionality of the new Radium Engineering fuel cell, emphasizing its multiple pumps and proper venting, a clear upgrade from the 'Lowe's bucket' used previously. While the exact cost is not disclosed, the presenter stresses the value and quality, contrasting it with a much higher price for a similar part at West Marine, which was ultimately sourced on eBay for a fraction of the cost. The episode also touches upon sourcing used Tesla parts, specifically mentioning a Model X for its interior components and a Gen 1 charge port. The fabrication work for mounting the fuel cell and battery is praised for its strength and precision. The overall sentiment is positive, showcasing significant progress in making the V8 Tesla a more reliable and capable vehicle, with a strong endorsement for using eBay Motors for parts acquisition. less
We Built a Solar Powered Electric Podracer With Its Own Supercharger Network
The Rich Rebuilds channel takes on the City EL, a quirky three-wheeled electric vehicle from Denmark, originally known as the Mini EL. Initially desig... morened with a modest 2 horsepower motor and a 43-mile range, the team significantly upgrades it with a 10 horsepower Golden Motor and a battery system utilizing Milwaukee drill batteries. While the original City EL was criticized for its slow speed and limited range, the upgraded version offers a thrilling, albeit sketchy, driving experience, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph. The reviewer highlights the car's poor handling at higher speeds due to its chassis not being designed for such power, but ultimately praises its fun factor and the ingenuity of using readily available drill batteries as a 'supercharging network.' The video also touches on the car's unique clam-shell opening and clear acrylic body. The solar charging capability is presented as a novel feature, complementing the DIY battery approach. Despite its inherent instability at speed, the City EL is deemed a success in bringing smiles and a permanent place in the channel's collection. less
Supercharging Our Sherp, The Off Road King
The Rich Rebuilds channel showcases extensive modifications to their Sherp off-road vehicle, focusing on both aesthetics and performance. The video de... moretails the fabrication of a custom trailer to transport the Sherp, the removal of multiple layers of wrap to reveal the brushed aluminum finish, and the replacement of outdated lights with modern LED strips. A significant portion is dedicated to addressing the vehicle's speed limitations by removing a throttle stop, which resulted in a noticeable increase in power and a surprising wheelie, despite the vehicle's modest stock horsepower. The reviewer also touches upon the practicalities of Sherp ownership, including the high cost of replacement tires and the potential need for insurance. The overall tone is enthusiastic, highlighting the fun and capability of the modified Sherp, while also acknowledging the practical challenges and costs associated with such an extreme vehicle. less
Picking Up a Hitchhiker in a Chinese Tesla Killer
In this episode, Rich and Stevon stumble upon an Xpeng P7 in the desert, initially mistaking it for a "Chinese Tesla killer." They are impre... moressed by its aggressive styling, reminiscent of a Kia Stinger, and its advanced technology, including multiple cameras suggesting self-driving capabilities. The interior features a large, flowing screen and a unique "robot" interface. While initially confused by the Chinese interface, they eventually get a brief tutorial from a local, learning about navigation, charging ports, and seat controls. The P7 Performance is highlighted, and the hosts engage in a playful drag race against a Tesla Model 3, noting the Xpeng's safety features that prevent sudden acceleration. They praise the car's value, advanced tech for its price point, and features like self-parking and ambient lighting. The video concludes with the Xpeng being impounded after attracting attention with its "sci-fi noises" and lights, and the hosts embarking on a new project. less
Building a V8 Powered Tesla, What's Taking So Long?
This episode of Rich Rebuilds details the ongoing, complex process of swapping a V8 engine into a Tesla Model S, affectionately nicknamed 'Iced T... moreea'. The host emphasizes that this is a meticulous, one-of-a-kind build, justifying the extended timeline by highlighting the pitfalls of rushed car projects. The primary focus of this installment is the extensive wiring harness removal and adaptation, particularly due to the donor car's all-wheel-drive system and the project car's two-wheel-drive electronics. Significant effort is also dedicated to sound deadening, replacing worn-out components like seat belts and door panels, and removing unnecessary features such as the autopilot camera to save weight and complexity. While the build is far from complete, with the driveshaft installed but axles still pending, the team is making steady progress, tackling the tedious but essential tasks to ensure the car's eventual performance and reliability. The episode underscores the challenges of integrating disparate automotive systems and the dedication required for such an ambitious custom build. less
We Installed Solar on Our Homeless Assistants Van
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the ongoing conversion of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van into a mobile tiny home for their assistant, Linda. Th... moree primary tasks completed include the installation of a significant solar power system, featuring three 335-watt panels totaling over 1000 watts, and the application of sheep's wool insulation. The reviewer highlights the controversial nature of van insulation choices, defending their decision for wool over spray foam due to ease of wiring and environmental considerations. Linda's unconventional design ideas, including a combined tanning bed/bed and an oversized toaster, are humorously critiqued. The episode also touches upon the challenges of a diesel truck breakdown affecting other projects and promotes Policygenius for insurance savings. While the van's core systems are progressing, the electrical wiring and plumbing remain the next major hurdles. less
The V8 Swapped Tesla, Powering Up The Computers
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the intricate process of integrating the 'brains' of the V8-swapped Tesla. The team successfully po... morewers up the car's electronics, specifically the MCU and instrument cluster, by combining parts from multiple damaged units. While the core Tesla systems are now functional independently of the V8 engine, the video highlights the significant challenges ahead, including error codes related to missing Tesla components and the complex dual-system integration (Tesla body control and standalone LS engine management). The build also involves extensive fabrication, such as modifying the subframe and engine mounts, and rerouting wiring to manage heat. The episode showcases the team's problem-solving skills, particularly in salvaging and combining components to achieve basic functionality, setting the stage for further work on the braking, suspension, and sound deadening. less
Installing a 6 Speed Manual Transmission in a Tesla
This video details the intricate process of preparing a six-speed manual transmission for installation into a Tesla, as part of a larger V8 swap proje... morect. The hosts focus on fabricating a transmission tunnel, rerouting essential components like brake lines and HVAC systems, and extracting necessary wiring harnesses from a donor car. Key challenges highlighted include ensuring sufficient clearance for the transmission and shifter, managing the complex electrical systems, and adapting the braking system to the new layout. While the V8 swap itself is the ultimate goal, this episode meticulously covers the crucial, often overlooked, mechanical and electrical integration steps required to make the manual transmission functional within the Tesla's architecture. The team emphasizes the need to retain Tesla's body control modules for basic functions like lights and signals, while a standalone ECU will manage the V8 engine. less
They Said You Can't Fit a V8 in a Tesla, So We Did It Anyway
The Rich Rebuilds channel tackles the seemingly impossible by performing a V8 engine swap on a Tesla Model S. The video chronicles the extensive fabri... morecation required, highlighting the challenges of integrating a 6.2L V8 from a 2010 Camaro SS into the electric vehicle's chassis. Key modifications include cutting and reinforcing the chassis to accommodate the transmission and driveshaft, replacing the original electric steering rack with a hydraulic one from the Camaro, and addressing the structural integrity lost by removing the battery pack. The build introduces Joshua, a new fabricator, who is tasked with much of the complex work. While the video showcases the initial fitting of the V8 and the extensive modifications, it emphasizes that significant fabrication remains, particularly concerning the drivetrain, axles, and dashboard integration. The reviewer expresses excitement for the next installment, which will focus on the fabrication process. less
We Built an Electric Mini Cooper for Under $3,000 and It's Awesome!
This video documents the ambitious DIY conversion of a 1969 Mini Cooper into an electric vehicle for under $3,000. The builder successfully transforme... mored a dilapidated Mini into a surprisingly capable electric hot hatchback. Key highlights include its impressive torque, quick acceleration (0-60 in 5.8 seconds), and a top speed exceeding 100 mph, achieved through controller adjustments and series battery configuration. The reviewer notes the car is almost "too torquey" for daily driving, making it a "perfect burnout machine" and a fun "around town" car. The build prioritizes hot-swappable batteries for potential racing applications over maximum range, delivering approximately 41 miles. Despite some minor issues like motor mount lurching and exposed wiring, the final cost of $2,815 (after selling old parts) is lauded as a significant achievement for a custom EV. less