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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I’m Building the Most Bizarre Electric Vehicle Conversion
This video chronicles the initial stages of an ambitious and unconventional electric vehicle conversion project. The creator, Rich, aims to build a &q... moreuot;bizarre" EV using salvaged parts, contrasting with expensive professional conversions. He details the acquisition of a wrecked Zero electric motorcycle for its powertrain components, which he plans to integrate into a 1930s Ford Model A rat rod. The episode focuses on fabricating crucial adapter plates and couplers to connect the Zero motor to the rat rod's transmission. Key takeaways include the cost-effectiveness of the Zero motorcycle as a donor vehicle ($3,200 for motor, battery, controller, etc.) and the decision to omit a clutch and flywheel to save weight and leverage the electric motor's instant torque. The creator highlights the challenges of custom fabrication, showcasing work done at a machine shop for the adapter plate and a separate facility for the coupler. While the episode lays the groundwork, the actual integration and testing are deferred to future installments. less
I Bought A Wrecked Electric Motorcycle And I Regret It Immediately
The reviewer chronicles the immediate regret experienced after purchasing a wrecked electric motorcycle, a Zero S model, from an auction site for $3,2... more00. Despite initial optimism about a quick repair, the extent of the damage quickly became apparent. Key issues include cracked plastics, torn fairings, a broken handlebar, loose brake lever, and a severely misaligned front wheel, potentially requiring new forks. The frame itself is compromised with cracks on both sides, rendering it unrepairable according to the reviewer. While the electric motor and battery appear functional, the extensive structural damage and the scarcity of replacement parts make a conventional repair unfeasible. The reviewer ultimately decides to use the parts for a future project, highlighting the significant challenges and unexpected costs associated with buying a damaged electric motorcycle. less
Rats Killed My Tesla
This video details a severe issue where rats chewed through a Tesla Model 3's high-voltage wiring, causing a complete system shutdown and renderi... moreng the car undrivable. The owner, Rich, recounts the alarming roadside experience and the subsequent diagnosis by the Electrified Garage. The core of the problem is identified as rodent damage to crucial cables, exacerbated by a failed main fuse. The video delves into the fuse's internal design, explaining how its multiple copper strands act as individual fuses that degrade over time, especially with frequent supercharging and aggressive driving. The specific vehicle is identified as a very early 2012 Model 3 (T12L B-pack), which had a less robust fuse design compared to later models. While the immediate fix involved replacing the damaged wiring and fuse, the owner plans to swap the entire battery pack for a newer unit. The video also touches upon the broader issue of rodent damage to EVs due to vegetable oil-based wiring insulation and briefly discusses the technology behind RoboRace autonomous vehicles. less
Exploring the Cheap DIY Electric Volkswagen Samba
This video explores Jehu Garcia's DIY electric Volkswagen Samba, highlighting the practicalities and cost savings of building an EV conversion. T... morehe host, Rich, is impressed by Garcia's ingenuity, particularly his method of sourcing and repurposing used laptop batteries for both the Samba and his DIY power walls. The Samba itself is presented as a basic, functional conversion with a manual transmission, offering a raw driving experience without modern assists like power steering. While the range is estimated around 90 miles at slower speeds, the focus is on the accessibility of such projects for those who can't afford a new EV. Garcia's work in providing temporary power solutions to communities in need, like Puerto Rico, is also a significant takeaway, showcasing the broader impact of his DIY ethos. less
How Truckla Was Built: The Worlds First Tesla Pickup Truck
This video chronicles the ambitious "Truckla" project, detailing the transformation of a Tesla Model 3 into the world's first Tesla pic... morekup truck. The host, Rich, documents the extensive modifications, emphasizing the precision and safety measures involved, including laser cutting and reinforcing the chassis. Key structural elements like the bed, tailgate, and roll bar are highlighted, showcasing a build that goes far beyond a simple aesthetic chop. While the video touches on the practicalities of the build, its primary focus is on the journey and the technical execution. The review also includes a brief, humorous look at a Sebring Vanguard city car, "Cheese Louise," and a personal anecdote about attending the Joe Rogan podcast. The overall impression is one of a complex, well-executed custom build that pushes the boundaries of what's possible with an electric vehicle. less
Tesla Gave Me The Help I Needed!
This video documents a significant mechanical failure in the reviewer's Tesla Model S, where multiple system warnings (air suspension, emergency ... morebrake, airbag, ABS) appeared, culminating in the electric parking brake failing, preventing the car from entering park. The reviewer creatively, albeit precariously, secured the vehicle before it was transported to a shop. Investigations revealed a broken HVAC drain tube leaking onto the air suspension and airbag modules, causing the related faults. The video also covers the repair of a common MCU screen leak, the installation of carbon fiber trim, and lighted door sills. The arrival of a seasoned Tesla technician, Chad, is highlighted as a significant asset to the repair shop. Ultimately, the interior is reassembled, the screen leak is fixed, and the air suspension and airbag lights are resolved, with the parking brake issue also addressed by reconnecting a sensor. less
Here's What We Found Inside a Tesla Conversion Shop
This video offers an insightful look into EV West, a premier EV conversion shop. The host explores various projects, highlighting the shop's phil... moreosophy of utilizing Tesla components for their cost-effectiveness and engineering quality. A key takeaway is the emphasis on reversible conversions, preserving the original chassis and allowing for a return to stock condition. The review showcases diverse builds, from Ewan McGregor's Beetle to a Tesla-powered Porsche and a unique electric baja bug, demonstrating the versatility of EV conversions. The shop's approach to custom solutions, including integrated battery packs and drive units, is detailed. The discussion also touches upon the practicalities of electric conversions, such as the benefits of electric power steering, heating, and air conditioning in classic cars, and the strategic use of motor power to enhance drivability rather than just raw speed. The video effectively communicates the passion and expertise behind EV West's operations, positioning them as innovators in the EV conversion space. less
Restoring a Flood Salvage Tesla Model X Part 7: Tesla Motor Swap
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the intricate process of swapping a Tesla Model X motor as part of a flood salvage restoration. The primary c... morehallenge encountered is a security mismatch between the drive unit and the body control module, preventing the car from driving. The team opts to source a replacement motor from the original donor car to resolve this. A significant hurdle arises when attempting to connect the new motor, as Tesla has revised the high-voltage cable connectors. The video details the team's efforts, alongside external specialists, to reverse-engineer a method for removing and transferring these cables without the expensive proprietary tool. While the motor swap itself is shown, the episode concludes with the uncertainty of whether the cable transfer method was successful and if the car will ultimately drive, promising a resolution in the next installment. The content highlights the complexities of EV repair and the ingenuity required when dealing with proprietary systems. less
Tesla Hacker Highlights Major Issue
This video features an insightful discussion with Phil, an engineer specializing in Tesla repair and diagnostics. The core of the review highlights a ... moresignificant issue with Tesla's internal components, specifically the eMMC chip in the MCU (Media Control Unit). Due to excessive logging, this chip has a finite lifespan and burns out, typically around the four-year mark, leading to a black screen and loss of functionality. Tesla's response is to replace the entire unit at a high cost, and they do not cover this under warranty, despite the issue stemming from their design. Phil demonstrates how he can diagnose and repair these modules, offering a crucial service for the secondary market. The video also touches upon the challenges of repairing Teslas due to proprietary systems and the need for open diagnostics to ensure the cars remain serviceable and retain value in the used market, which impacts insurance rates and overall vehicle insurability. less
Can We Make Tesla Batteries Fire Resistant?
This video explores the potential for making Tesla batteries more fire-resistant using a specialized high-temperature heat shielding gel. The host, Ri... morech, and his associate Lee, conduct a series of dangerous experiments on salvaged Tesla battery cells from a "Daisy" Model X. They test the gel's efficacy by applying it to some cells and leaving others bare, then subjecting both groups to extreme heat, including a toaster oven and a direct torch flame. The results indicate that the gel significantly slows down the ignition and spread of fire among adjacent cells. While the bare cells quickly ignited and propagated the fire, the gel-protected cells took longer to ignite and showed less heat transfer to their neighbors. The video concludes that the gel appears to be effective, raising questions about its potential application in EV battery packs to enhance safety, though cost and weight are acknowledged as potential drawbacks. The host emphasizes the extreme danger of these experiments and advises viewers not to replicate them. less
Restoring a Flood Salvage Tesla Model X Part 1
This video documents the initial stages of restoring a flood-damaged Tesla Model X. The presenter, Rich, emphasizes a return to "old school"... more repair methods, focusing on hands-on diagnostics and disassembly rather than elaborate explanations. The initial assessment reveals significant water damage, particularly evident in the rear carpeting and the body control module, which is confirmed to be non-functional. Despite the extensive damage, there's a glimmer of hope that the vehicle might be made road-legal. The presenter plans to continue the restoration in subsequent episodes, focusing on the removal of the MCU, heater, remaining carpeting, and potentially the high-voltage battery. The video also includes a brief update on the "Electrified Garage" campaign, thanking donors and announcing the upcoming construction of the repair shop. less
Why the Used Tesla System Is Broken
This video details a frustrating and prolonged experience purchasing a used Tesla Model X. The reviewer highlights significant issues with Tesla'... mores used car buying system, including poor communication, lack of transparency in vehicle condition reporting, and an inefficient sales process involving third-party auction houses like Manheim. Despite Tesla's reputation for reconditioning, the reviewer found the initial vehicle photos to be unprofessional and the car itself to have undisclosed damage. The video criticizes Tesla's decision to discontinue its Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program in favor of a less rigorous 'used car' designation, leading to a perceived decline in quality and customer experience. While acknowledging Tesla's direct sales model and market disruption, the reviewer suggests improvements in inventory management and transparency to better serve customers buying used vehicles. less
The Tesla Powered Mercury: In Depth
This video showcases a remarkable Tesla-powered 1950 Mercury custom build by Stealth EV and Icon 4x4, presented at SEMA. The reviewer is highly impres... moresed by the meticulous integration of electric powertrain components, particularly the "engine block" housing the batteries and controllers, which cleverly retains the classic aesthetic. Key highlights include the dual motors providing AWD, a substantial battery capacity utilizing Tesla Model S modules, and the full suite of modern EV features like AC, heating, and a functional media interface, all integrated seamlessly to maintain an OEM look. The build is praised for its clean execution, attention to detail, and the successful preservation of the car's vintage character while embracing electric technology. The reviewer concludes that this is one of the cleanest and most impressive EV conversions seen, setting a high bar for the industry. less
Model 3 Suspension Upgrade and the Lawyers Aren't Happy
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on a suspension upgrade for a Tesla Model 3, involving the installation of lowering springs and stainless steel ... morebrake lines. The host provides a detailed, up-close look at the Model 3's suspension components, aiming to build a catalog of how-to videos for Tesla owners. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to a legal dispute involving "Lee's Audi," who received a cease and desist letter from Audi for alleged copyright infringement related to a documentary. The reviewer highlights the practical aspects of the suspension work, noting the ease of working with a relatively new Tesla due to the lack of rust. The video also touches on the importance of proper bolt tightening, as evidenced by a rattling noise caused by a loose nut after the upgrade. Overall, the video offers a practical guide for DIYers and a brief, albeit concerning, look into legal challenges faced by automotive repair shops. less
The True DIY Tesla Range Extending Battery Trailer
This video showcases a unique and functional DIY Tesla battery pack trailer, a stark contrast to the host's previous unpowered version. The revie... morewer is impressed by the ingenuity and practicality of the build, highlighting its potential for home energy storage and mobile power. The trailer utilizes a salvaged Toyota RAV4 EV battery pack, offering a historical perspective on Tesla's early collaborations. Key features include its parallel connection with the host vehicle's battery, a custom control box managing contactors and cooling, and a Raspberry Pi for data monitoring. While acknowledging the significant weight (around 1000 lbs with the trailer), the reviewer notes a surprisingly good highway efficiency of 3.4 miles/kWh. Concerns about safety and potential theft are addressed with physical locks and a GPS tracker. The build cost is estimated at around $7,000 ($6,000 for the battery, $1,000-$1,500 for the trailer), making it a cost-effective solution for extended range and power. less
First Generation Tesla Motor Failure
This video delves into the internal mechanics of a first-generation Tesla drive unit, specifically addressing a grinding noise experienced by the owne... morer after 40,000 miles. The host, Rich, and his associate, Lee, meticulously disassemble the unit, revealing worn-out bearings and a motor shaft that is beginning to chip. While replacing the bearings temporarily resolves the grinding noise, the analysis concludes that the underlying issue of shaft wear will inevitably lead to complete motor failure. The video highlights the reliability concerns of early Tesla drive units, contrasting them with later revisions. Although the repair is presented as a learning experience, the overall sentiment suggests that these early units have a limited lifespan, particularly when subjected to the stresses of a salvaged vehicle. The content is informative for those interested in the longevity and repair of older EVs. less
Hands On With World's First Tesla Powered Audi
This video showcases a remarkable custom build: the world's first Tesla-powered Audi S5. The reviewer is thoroughly impressed by the ingenuity an... mored execution of the conversion, highlighting the seamless integration of Tesla components, including the battery, motor, and inverter, into the Audi chassis. The build's ability to retain the original Quattro all-wheel-drive system and the custom gear reduction for enhanced low-end torque are particularly praised. While the owner admits the cooling system for the motor is not yet fully implemented and the battery management system is a custom solution, the overall performance and the owner's technical prowess are evident. The reviewer expresses excitement about the potential for such conversions and the future of electric mobility, even teasing an upcoming mystery build. less
Rich Rebuilds, The Man, The Myth, The Legend, The Weirdo
This video offers a candid and often humorous look into the personal journey of Rich Rebuilds, detailing his transition from IT to YouTube stardom. Th... moree narrative highlights his early struggles with career choices, his unconventional start in documenting a Tesla flood rebuild, and the subsequent explosive growth of his channel. While not a vehicle review, the content provides insight into the creator's personality and the unexpected challenges of online fame, including dealing with obsessive fans and the personal impact of public visibility. The reviewer expresses a strong aversion to seeing his own image and discusses the bizarre interactions he encounters, painting a picture of a reluctant celebrity navigating the strange world of internet fame. less
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. Wh... moreile the car's electronics powered up after pressure washing, the motor itself did not fare as well. The video demonstrates the process of removing the motor, revealing significant water ingress and rust within the drive unit and differential. The reviewer explicitly states that sending 400 volts through the compromised unit is unsafe. A key takeaway is that Tesla motors, despite their compact design, are not waterproof and can be severely damaged by submersion. Furthermore, the specific drive unit examined is on Tesla's restricted parts list, posing a challenge for repair. The episode concludes by posing the question of whether self-repair is possible, setting up a future installment. less
Tesla Dismantle: Shorter and Sweeter
This video documents the dismantling of a Tesla Model S P85D, referred to as 'Angela'. The process focuses on removing various components, i... morencluding the BCM, computers, airbags, instrument cluster, and HVAC system. The reviewer highlights significant corrosion issues on several electronic modules, particularly the BCM and instrument cluster, suggesting they may be beyond repair. The video also touches upon the use of components from other manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz and Ford, and the presence of Takata airbags. While the dismantling process is shown in detail, the reviewer's primary takeaway is the extent of corrosion and water damage, questioning the long-term viability of such components. The video serves as an in-depth look at the internal architecture of an older Tesla, emphasizing the challenges of water ingress and component degradation. less
Rant: Tesla Super Fans
This video is a passionate rant targeting "Tesla fanboys," as described by the creator. The reviewer, while acknowledging Tesla's stren... moregths and even owning one, expresses significant frustration with the perceived entitlement, blind adoration, and defensive nature of some Tesla owners. Key criticisms include the uninformed owner, the "Tesla is perfect" crowd who ignore build quality issues and long repair times, the prevalence of vanity plates, the perceived hypocrisy of "environmentalists" who previously drove gas cars, and the extreme "Elon worshippers." The reviewer uses humor and strong language to highlight these points, emphasizing that while Teslas are great cars, they are not perfect and owners should acknowledge their flaws rather than engage in "ice shaming" or defend every aspect. The video's core message is a call for more realistic ownership perspectives and less aggressive fanboyism. less
How to Fix Tesla Door Handles
This video provides a detailed, albeit somewhat chaotic, guide on how to repair Tesla Model S door handles. The presenter, "Car Guru," focus... morees on a common failure point, offering a DIY solution to save on dealership costs. The tutorial covers the necessary tools (T30, 9/10mm sockets, T20/T25 bits) and walks through the intricate process of removing the door panel, disconnecting various sensors and harnesses, and ultimately replacing the faulty door handle mechanism. Key takeaways include the importance of handling delicate clips, the potential for corrosion and wire damage as the root cause, and the need for careful adjustment of the new handle. While the production quality is rough, with frequent cameraman interruptions and off-topic banter, the core information is valuable for Model S owners experiencing this specific issue. The presenter successfully demonstrates the repair, showing the handle functioning correctly at the end. less
Is This Tesla Worth The Risk?
The "Car Guru" reviews a 2012 Tesla Model S listed on eBay, highlighting its condition as a salvaged flood car. While the interior and exter... moreior are remarkably clean, suggesting a thorough detailing, significant concerns arise regarding its flood damage. The reviewer notes the air suspension is deflated, the MCU screen shows signs of bubbling and potential failure, and the 3G connectivity is absent, possibly due to Tesla disabling it. A major red flag is the extremely low battery voltage and the car's inability to start or charge after a 12-volt battery replacement. Despite the clean appearance, the reviewer expresses strong reservations about the car's true condition, particularly the potential for water damage within the main battery pack. Ultimately, the reviewer gives the car a "thumbs down" at its current asking price, suggesting a price closer to $14,000 would be more appropriate given the risks, which could include a battery replacement costing an additional $10,000-$12,000. less
Black Tesla Moments
This video is the third in a weekly rant series, focusing on the creator's experiences as a Black Tesla owner. The host addresses a subscriber�... more39;s question about racial perceptions and comments, both online and in person, particularly in the Northeast. He shares anecdotes illustrating how race is often unexpectedly brought into conversations, even within the EV community or when discussing luxury items like Teslas. The creator expresses that while he finds humor in many of these situations, he believes race is a pervasive element in American life that is often forced upon individuals. He acknowledges that being a minority creator might contribute to his channel's success, as it deviates from the norm on platforms like YouTube. The host concludes by stating his intention to delve deeper into these topics in a future, more serious discussion, encouraging viewers to seek diverse interactions. less