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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Tesla Ruined My Car And It's The Best Thing To Ever Happen To Me!
The reviewer details a frustrating experience after Tesla disabled Supercharging on his personally repaired Model S, a car originally purchased totale... mored. This action significantly devalues the vehicle and impacts its practicality for longer trips, turning a 7-hour journey into a potential 36-hour ordeal. The video highlights the inconvenience and extended charging times associated with Level 2 charging, contrasting it sharply with the rapid Supercharging experience. While acknowledging the small market of DIY EV repairers, the reviewer expresses dissatisfaction with Tesla's policy of disabling features post-sale, questioning the long-term viability of owning a Tesla under such conditions. This situation leads him to consider other EVs with reliable DC fast charging or even a return to gasoline-powered vehicles, as the core appeal of an EV for his use case is compromised. less
How We Designed My Tesla Cyberquad
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the fabrication and design process for a custom Tesla Cyberquad. The host details the challenges of integrati... moreng a large battery and motor into the existing frame, including fabricating a custom battery box and mounting brackets. The video highlights the use of Durabak bedliner paint for durability and aesthetics, and showcases the design process for the quad's fairings, which involved meticulous paper and cardboard modeling based on reference images and dimensions of similar ATVs. While the host acknowledges feedback regarding suspension travel and unsprung weight, he defends his approach, emphasizing working with available components. The episode also includes a humorous segment addressing viewer comments and a sponsorship plug for Upstart. Overall, the video provides an in-depth look at the hands-on engineering and design required for this unique electric ATV build. less
Finding Power Source for My Cyberquad
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the initial stages of converting a gas-powered ATV into a "Cyber Quad" using electric components fr... moreom a Zero motorcycle. The host details the challenges encountered with the donor ATV, including a slipping clutch, a damaged rear swing arm, and a seized bolt that required cutting. The primary focus then shifts to sourcing and preparing the electric drivetrain from a damaged Zero motorcycle. Key components like the battery, controller, DC-DC converter, and charger are identified. The host emphasizes the significant weight of the Zero battery (around 150 lbs) and the need for custom fabrication, including a wooden mock-up for the battery box and modifications to the ATV's frame to accommodate the new electric motor and battery. The episode highlights the potential for greatly increased power and torque compared to the original gas engine, but also points out the considerable engineering challenges ahead, particularly regarding motor placement and the conversion from belt drive to chain drive. The review concludes with a preview of the next episode, which will cover motor mounting and potential welding work. less
Building a Tesla Cyberquad Out of a Cheap Atv
This video chronicles the ambitious project of converting a Yamaha Raptor 700 ATV into a "Not-A-Tesla Cyberquad." The creator, Rich, highlig... morehts the significant cost savings of purchasing a used Raptor over new. The build process begins with addressing a stripped clutch lever, showcasing some of the mechanical challenges. While the video touches on the Cyberquad's conceptual basis from the Cybertruck reveal and its supposed Yamaha Raptor 700 underpinnings, it primarily focuses on the initial acquisition and early mechanical fixes of the donor ATV. The creator expresses frustration with a stuck swingarm bolt, delaying the engine removal and the start of the actual conversion. The video also briefly mentions personal experiences with Tesla charging and vehicle maintenance. The overall tone is informal and entertaining, with a clear emphasis on the DIY aspect and the potential for future welding and customization. less
Why My Tesla Model X Is The Most Useless Car I Have
The reviewer expresses significant disappointment with his Tesla Model X, deeming it the "most pointless car" he owns, primarily due to its ... morehigh cost and lack of practical advantages over his Model S. Key criticisms include the impracticality of the Falcon Wing doors in winter, where they freeze shut and lose cabin heat upon opening. Storage is also found to be less versatile than the Model S, with rear seats that don't fold flat and a smaller frunk. Charging speed is slower than the Model S due to a less powerful onboard charger. Furthermore, the vehicle has experienced a "shudder under acceleration" and a significant rodent infestation, leading to damage to the coolant system, issues that are now out of warranty. While acknowledging the cool factor of autopilot and auto-opening doors, the reviewer concludes that the Model X fails to justify its price and offers less utility than expected for road trips, suggesting the Model Y would have been a more sensible purchase. less
Racing DIY Electric Mini Super Bike vs Gas, Winner Takes All!
RichRebuilds successfully upgraded a Monster Moto 1000 electric mini bike to compete against a gas-powered mini bike. The core of the upgrade involved... more replacing the stock 1000W motor, controller, and 36V battery with a significantly more powerful setup: a higher wattage motor, a much larger 72V controller, and a 72V Lithium Ion battery pack. The reviewer highlights the challenges of fitting the larger components into the existing frame and the importance of the 'hard boot' button for instant torque. Despite the added weight of the new battery, the electric mini bike proved victorious in the race against its gas counterpart. The reviewer emphasizes the advantages of EVs, such as silent operation and instant torque, while also noting the bike's small size makes it less conspicuous to law enforcement. The video concludes with the reviewer winning the bet and Stephen having to give away his gas mini bike. less
Everything Wrong With An Electric Jeep Wrangler
This video delves into a DIY electric Jeep Wrangler conversion, highlighting both the cost-effectiveness and the challenges encountered. The owner aim... moreed for a budget build, utilizing a secondhand S10 EV conversion kit and sourcing Voltronix lithium iron phosphate batteries at a discount. While the conversion was completed for approximately $11,000, the process was protracted due to the owner's focus on cost-saving, leading to issues like a damaged motor upon arrival and some initially faulty batteries. The vehicle's range is reported to be around 50 miles, with the owner preferring to stay within 30 miles for reliability. A significant issue addressed was a motor vibration caused by improper clutch plate alignment, which was partially rectified by drilling new holes. The reviewer notes the owner's use of the electric Wrangler for off-roading in muddy conditions, demonstrating its capability despite the DIY nature. The video showcases a functional, albeit imperfect, budget EV conversion, emphasizing the learning curve and potential pitfalls of such projects. less
Inside The Electrified Garage, A Third Party Tesla Repair Shop
This video offers an in-depth look into 'The Electrified Garage,' an independent repair shop specializing in EVs, particularly Teslas. The f... moreounders, former Tesla employees Chad and Chris, established the shop due to the lack of accessible and timely service options for Tesla owners, especially those outside major service areas. The review highlights the shop's professional setup, including extensive airline plumbing and dedicated power circuits, and showcases a variety of repairs, from common issues like wiper blade and filter replacements to more complex tasks such as MCU failures, accident repairs, and even custom modifications like a hidden high-speed DC charger installation on a Roadster. The video effectively argues for the necessity of third-party EV repair shops by detailing the challenges owners face with traditional service centers and demonstrating the expertise and comprehensive services offered by The Electrified Garage. The founders' passion and commitment to customer service are evident throughout. less
Why This Tesla Was My Biggest Financial Mistake
The reviewer details a significant financial misstep with the purchase and subsequent repair of a flooded Tesla Model X. Initially acquired for $30,00... more0, the vehicle's repair journey was plagued by unforeseen issues, including water damage to the BCM, charger, drive motor, and battery pack. The reviewer highlights critical lessons learned: avoiding overconfidence, not falling in love with a salvage vehicle, conducting thorough due diligence (especially with flood-damaged cars), and knowing when to cut losses. The project escalated in cost, requiring replacement of the battery, BCM, motor, interior, and even downgrading from a performance motor to a standard one, ultimately costing around $70,000. The reviewer concludes that salvage rebuilds are generally not worth the investment unless performing the labor oneself, emphasizing the high risk of unexpected expenses and the potential for the final cost to exceed the value of a comparable used, clean-title vehicle. less
I Brought My Junked Supercar to SEMA and Nobody Noticed
Rich Rebuilds takes his recently acquired, wrecked BMW i8 to SEMA 2019, transforming it into a show car. The video offers a tour of the event, highlig... morehting trends like "bro dozers," Supras, and replica wheels, with a notable increase in EV presence compared to previous years. The reviewer showcases several interesting EVs, including the Electric Bigfoot, the Xing Mobility Electric Camaro (featuring a "crate motor" EV conversion kit), an electric Mustang with a manual transmission, and the electric C10 by Chevy. While acknowledging the growing EV presence and innovative conversions, the reviewer ultimately decides against converting his own i8 to electric. His reasoning centers on the significant technical challenges (dashboard errors, non-functional gauges), high conversion costs, limited practical range, and a substantial negative impact on resale value. He concludes that the i8, despite its limitations, is enjoyable as is and will be sold after a summer of use, signaling a new chapter for the Rich Rebuilds channel as he prepares to move to a larger workspace for future builds. less
Cybertruck: Impressions From The Biggest Tesla Troll
The reviewer offers a candid, albeit profane, assessment of the Tesla Cybertruck, positioning it as a polarizing design that grows on the viewer. Whil... moree acknowledging its unconventional aesthetic, the reviewer highlights its potential to disrupt the truck market by differentiating itself from competitors like the Ford F-150 and Rivian. Key points of interest include the truck's exoskeleton construction, the integrated air compressor, 220-volt hookup, and impressive suspension travel. However, significant concerns are raised regarding repairability due to the unique construction and the potential for long wait times. The reviewer also touches on the vehicle's performance specs, such as its towing capacity and acceleration, but frames the reservation numbers as a testament to Tesla's cult following rather than immediate consumer demand for a finished product. Ultimately, the Cybertruck is presented as a bold, attention-grabbing statement piece that, despite its perceived ugliness, generates significant hype and discussion. less
My Wrecked Supercar Is Finished And It's Awesome
The "Rich Rebuilds" channel documents the extensive repair and customization of a wrecked BMW i8, transforming it into a show car for SEMA. ... moreThe host details the process of sourcing parts, including a damaged hood and a complete rear axle assembly, often from eBay, highlighting cost-saving measures. Significant work was done on the suspension, brakes, and body panels, with a professional wrap in matte dark gray applied to the exterior. The video showcases the car starting and driving after repairs, though it notes the 12-volt battery was depleted. The reviewer expresses satisfaction with the final aesthetic, humorously referring to the i8 as a "coolest Prius," and provides a detailed cost breakdown, estimating the total project cost at around $35,000-$36,000, excluding his own labor. The build emphasizes the unique construction of the i8 with plastic panels attached to a carbon fiber structure, making certain repairs more manageable. less
Rebuilding My Wrecked BMW, I8 The Most Hated Supercar
This episode chronicles the ongoing rebuild of a wrecked BMW i8. The host, Uncle Rich, details the extensive damage sustained by the vehicle, includin... moreg a ripped-out axle, smashed rear quarter panel, and a broken subframe mount. He highlights the high cost of replacement parts, noting that a complete rear-end assembly would cost around $5,000 if bought individually, but he found a used one for $2,500. The episode also touches on the controversial nature of the i8, with the host defending it against online criticism. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to the labor-intensive process of removing debris and damaged components, particularly the axle and undertray. The host emphasizes the usefulness of the i8 repair manual and collaborates with a professional welder to fix the subframe. The episode concludes with the front crash bar removal and a preview of the final episode, which will feature a $1,000 hood, new wheels, and a wrap, aiming to turn the i8 into a show car. less
How to Build Yourself a Tesla Model 3 on the Cheap!
This video details an ambitious project: acquiring and refurbishing a salvage Tesla Model 3 for a significantly reduced cost. The host successfully de... moremonstrates how to source a damaged vehicle from IAA auctions, highlighting the importance of selecting a car with manageable damage and intact airbags to control repair costs. A key takeaway is the revelation that even heavily damaged Model 3s, particularly those totaling over $34,000 in damages according to insurance reports, can be salvaged if the battery replacement cost is the primary factor in totaling the vehicle. The reviewer emphasizes the potential for significant savings, acquiring a 2018 Dual Motor Long Range AWD Model 3 with under 4,000 miles for $19,000 (after initial purchase and repairs). A crucial aspect covered is the functionality of Supercharging on salvaged Model 3s, which is confirmed to work, adding substantial value. The video also touches upon the challenges and surprising affordability of sourcing parts directly from Tesla compared to third-party sellers. Ultimately, the project concludes with a running, driving, and Supercharging Model 3 for a total investment of $25,000 (excluding labor), a fraction of its original build cost. less
Why Your Tesla Is Falling Apart
This video delves into the common issues plaguing the Tesla Model X, particularly focusing on early production 'Signature' models. The revie... morewer highlights significant problems with body and door fitment, including misaligned panels, rubbing trim, and loose seals, leading to wind noise and potential paint damage. The Falcon Wing doors are a frequent source of trouble, with issues ranging from malfunctioning actuators and sensors causing inconsistent opening to broken internal hinges. The video also addresses the infamous front-end vibration, attributing it to motor mounts or the front transaxle, and notes that temporary fixes like replacing axle shafts are insufficient. Other discussed problems include loose quarter glass, potential leaks from the third brake light, and the powerful, sometimes destructive, nature of the door actuators. While acknowledging Tesla's improvements from the Model S to the X, the review concludes that the X introduced its own unique set of complex problems, especially concerning its advanced door mechanisms. less
Servicing Your Tesla Model 3: The Complete Guide
This video provides a comprehensive guide to the first-year annual service for a Tesla Model 3, performed by factory-trained technician Chad at Electr... moreified Garage. The service covers essential checks including tire wear and alignment, brake pad inspection and cleaning, cabin air filter replacement, and inspection of underbody components to prevent debris buildup. A key takeaway is the importance of regular brake maintenance, especially in regions with harsh weather and road salt, to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance, despite the reduced use of friction brakes due to regenerative braking. The video also touches upon the replacement of HEPA filters and wiper blades, highlighting potential issues like mold growth in HVAC systems and the dual-nozzle washer system on the Model 3 wipers. While the video is informative, it is heavily interspersed with sponsored content and personal anecdotes, detracting from the core instructional value. less
Building a Tesla For The Most Hated Automotive YouTuber
This video chronicles a collaborative effort between Rich (RichRebuilds) and Sam (Samcrac) to repair a damaged Tesla Model S. The narrative highlights... more the challenges and humorous mishaps encountered during the process, including sourcing parts from Electrified Garage, dealing with shipping logistics to Alex's (Legit Street Cars) location for the actual repair, and the reviewer's personal anxieties about flying Spirit Airlines. Key takeaways include the surprisingly easy nature of working on EVs compared to gas cars, the prevalence of screen delamination issues in older Teslas, and the importance of proper maintenance despite common misconceptions. While the repair itself was successful, the video emphasizes the often-unconventional methods and the personalities involved, making for an entertaining, albeit chaotic, build log. less
My Electric Rat Is Driving Me Insane!
This episode of Rich Rebuilds chronicles the challenging, and often frustrating, process of converting an electric motorcycle into a rat rod. The host... more openly admits to a lack of clear direction and highlights significant hurdles, particularly with the braking system. Sourcing parts for the vintage Corvair front brakes proves difficult, leading to a leaking wheel cylinder and a master cylinder that required custom fabrication of brake lines. The episode also details the installation of hydro-dipped seats and a carbon fiber wing. A major setback occurs when the motor coupler, apparently warped due to imprecise alignment, fails. The host decides to seek professional help, opting for a 3D-printed metal coupler in the next installment, acknowledging the need for precision over eyeballing critical components. The video also features a sponsorship segment for Skillshare. less
I Made the Throttle on My Electric Car and It's Pretty Bad
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the fabrication and integration of the throttle system for their electric rat rod project. The builder, "... more;Uncle Rich," details the process of adapting a motorcycle twist throttle to control the electric motor, highlighting the "ghetto" yet functional nature of the solution. The review emphasizes the challenges faced, including modifying the pedal assembly, extending leverage points, and adding a secondary return spring for proper operation. While the aesthetic of the welds is acknowledged as crude, the functionality is confirmed, with the throttle, ignition, lights, and turn signals all working. The video also touches upon the unexpected prospect of road testing the vehicle for a production company, a task that seems to unnerve the builder given the car's initial "for the lulz" construction. The episode concludes with anticipation for the next installment, which will feature the vehicle's first test drive. less
Using Tesla Parts in My Electric Rat Rod Conversion
This video documents the ongoing electric conversion of a rat rod, focusing on the integration of Tesla components. The builder tackles several key ta... moresks: mounting the motor controller and DC-to-DC converter, managing and routing wiring harnesses, and fabricating a new brake pedal. Significant effort is placed on wire management, using Tesla weather stripping and custom channels to protect wires from abrasion. The builder also addresses the aesthetics by planning to shorten and reupholster the Dodge Caravan seats for a more integrated look. While the video showcases practical fabrication and problem-solving, it also highlights the unconventional and sometimes risky methods employed, such as welding in flip-flops. The builder acknowledges the challenges, particularly with the motor controller, which is designed for a motorcycle and may struggle with the weight of a car. The overall tone is informal and humorous, with the builder embracing criticism of his methods. less
Ex Tesla Army Veteran Now Lives in His Model X
This video features an interview with Carson, a former Tesla employee who has adopted an unconventional lifestyle by living full-time in his Tesla Mod... moreel X. The reviewer highlights Carson's extensive collection of Tesla-branded merchandise, emphasizing his dedication to the brand. Carson explains his decision to live in the car due to high rent costs and utility bills, finding it a more economical and freeing alternative. He details the practicalities of his setup, including a custom bed, clothing storage, and entertainment options, showcasing the Model X's spaciousness and suitability for this lifestyle. The reviewer notes the Model X's advantages for living, such as ample storage and ceiling clearance, and the benefit of free, unlimited Supercharging for climate control. While acknowledging the financial savings and sustainability, the reviewer personally prefers more legroom. The video also touches upon Tesla's evolving policies regarding free Supercharging for older models and the potential for future software updates like Netflix and YouTube integration. less
Welding an Electric Motorcycle to a Car - The Idiots Guide
This video documents the ambitious, albeit amateur, process of integrating an electric motorcycle's components into a car, referred to as a '... more;rat rod.' The creator openly admits to subpar welding skills, using a basic Harbor Freight welder on quarter-inch steel, resulting in aesthetically unpleasing but functionally strong welds. Key challenges included incorrect sizing of a battery box, requiring significant modification, and the complex task of single-handedly aligning and mounting the transmission adapter plate. The creator also details the simplification of the wiring harness, notably removing the ABS module and wheel speed sensors for weight savings. While the project is presented with a heavy dose of self-deprecating humor and a focus on the learning process, the core takeaway is the creator's determination to complete the conversion despite significant technical hurdles and a lack of professional experience. The video highlights the practical difficulties of custom EV conversions, emphasizing problem-solving and perseverance over polished execution. less
My Electric Rat Rod Wiring Hell
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the intricate process of cleaning up and modifying the wiring of an electric rat rod conversion. The host tac... morekles the removal of unnecessary components like the power steering pump to save weight, aiming for a more streamlined system. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to tidying up the "rat's nest" of old wiring, replacing it with a cleaner setup, and preparing the frame for welding to mount the battery pack. The presenter also addresses the confusing and potentially unsafe pedal configuration, modifying the brake and accelerator pedals for better functionality and safety. While the video highlights the challenges of integrating modern electric components into a vintage vehicle, it showcases the host's hands-on approach to problem-solving and the ongoing progress of the unique build. The episode concludes with a preview of the next steps, including welding and wiring installation. less
Here's How I'm Building an Electric Rat Rod in My Basement
This episode details the ongoing, unconventional electric conversion of a 1930s Ford Model A into a rat rod. The builder, Rich, addresses criticism fr... moreom various automotive communities by embracing the "messing up" aspect of the build. Key steps covered include fabricating an adapter plate to mount a Zero electric motorcycle motor to the Model A's transmission bell housing and performing initial weight reduction by cutting away excess metal. The process involves significant custom fabrication, including rough cuts and precise drilling for mounting points. The builder highlights the challenges of custom fitting parts and the creative solutions employed, such as using a modified marker for tracing. The episode concludes with the adapter plate being cut more precisely by a machine shop, setting the stage for the next installment which will focus on turbo welding and integrating the motorcycle electronics. less