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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Trying to Get Our Budget DIY Electric Mini Cooper Running
This video chronicles the ongoing DIY electric conversion of a budget Mini Cooper, focusing on the challenges and solutions encountered in the latest ... morestage of the project. The host details the process of integrating Chevy Volt batteries, highlighting why they were chosen over more expensive Tesla modules or heavier lead-acid options due to budget and range considerations. Significant effort is dedicated to the cooling system for the controller and the complex wiring of the Battery Management System (BMS), emphasizing its critical role in safety and preventing battery overcharging. The episode also addresses crucial safety features, including the installation of an inertia switch and an emergency kill switch, to mitigate risks in case of collision or system malfunction. The host explains the decision to relocate the batteries from a potential under-car position to the rear seat area to maintain budget and avoid ground clearance issues, necessitating the removal of the rear seats. While the core electrical systems are being connected, the video concludes with the wheels spinning for the first time, a positive step towards the vehicle's completion, with the next episode promising the maiden voyage. less
Powering My DIY Electric Mini Cooper On A Budget
This video details the ongoing DIY electric conversion of a budget Mini Cooper, focusing heavily on the critical and often complex process of battery ... moreselection. The host explores various salvaged battery options, including those from Zero motorcycles, CALB, Nissan Leaf, and Tesla, ultimately deeming them too expensive or unsuitable for the project's budget constraints. The chosen solution involves two salvaged Chevy Volt battery packs, praised for their form factor, affordability (around $500 each), and integrated BMS connectors, which significantly simplify installation. The video also touches upon the challenges of integrating charging infrastructure and the DC-to-DC converter. A significant portion is dedicated to troubleshooting the Zilla controller, initially plagued by an 'open pot wire' error, which is eventually resolved by ensuring all connections are fully seated. While the project faces budget and technical hurdles, the host expresses optimism about the progress and readiness for further updates. less
How We Found Cheap Parts for Our DIY Electric Mini Cooper
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the budget-friendly acquisition of parts for the electric Mini Cooper conversion. The host highlights the cos... moret-effectiveness of sourcing used components from online classifieds and the DIY Electric Car website, emphasizing that many EV conversion projects are abandoned, leading to deals on parts. Key installations include an electric vacuum assist pump for the braking system, a crucial component often overlooked in EV conversions. The video also details the fabrication of a secondary motor mount using scrap metal and discusses the integration of a DC contactor and shunt for high-voltage system management. While the build prioritizes affordability, using leftover paint and pre-cut wires, the host stresses the importance of proper wiring and component selection for safety and functionality. The episode concludes with preparations for wiring the high-voltage system and integrating the accelerator pedal, with a promise of more updates in the next installment. less
Restoring My Dead Mini Cooper With A $200 Electric Motor
This video documents the ongoing electric conversion of a Mini Cooper, focusing on the installation of a $200 electric motor and the subsequent testin... moreg and cleaning processes. The creator, Rich, highlights the challenges of working on a budget, including improvising cleaning methods and fabricating custom motor mounts. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to troubleshooting the motor's initial failure to spin, which was ultimately traced to a physical obstruction caused by the adapter plate grinding against the motor's Lovejoy connector. After resolving this, the motor successfully spins, and the creator discusses the benefits of retaining the manual transmission in an EV conversion for potential range and torque advantages, drawing parallels to the Porsche Taycan and his own BMW i8. The video also touches on the creator's personal car collection and his use of Displate metal posters. less
Building An Electric Mini Cooper On A $5,000 Budget
This episode details the initial stages of an ambitious $5,000 electric Mini Cooper conversion. The host, Rich, successfully sourced a "pretty bl... moreue" Mini for $1,500, despite its blown engine, prioritizing aesthetics over initial functionality. The core of the build involves retaining the manual transmission and mating it to a salvaged DC motor and Zilla controller, acquired for a combined $800. A key challenge identified is the initial 8-inch motor's perceived inadequacy, leading to the acquisition of a larger Warp 9 motor for $200 from a technical school. The episode highlights the resourcefulness required for budget EV conversions, emphasizing DIY solutions and the value of used parts from educational institutions or abandoned projects. A significant portion is dedicated to a detailed discussion with a former BMW technician about the notorious unreliability and common issues plaguing various Mini Cooper models, serving as a cautionary note for potential builders. The host also touches upon the simplicity of DC motors over AC for this build, despite foregoing regenerative braking. The episode concludes with the successful mechanical mating of the motor to the transmission, setting the stage for wiring and power systems in future installments. less
I Bought The Least Reliable Car and I’m Making It Electric on a Budget
The host embarks on an ambitious budget EV conversion of a notoriously unreliable Mini Cooper. The project's core challenge is to transform a veh... moreicle known for its mechanical issues into a dependable electric car without breaking the bank. Key takeaways include the decision to retain the front-wheel-drive setup and the manual transmission for simplicity and cost-effectiveness, leveraging existing mounts and the inherent gear selection benefits. The review highlights the necessity of addressing the vacuum-assisted braking system with a 12-volt solution and the electric power steering, which fortunately uses an electric hydraulic pump already. The host expresses a strong desire to keep costs extremely low, utilizing scrapyard parts and DIY methods. While the specific trim level and generation of the Mini are not explicitly stated, the focus is clearly on a budget-friendly, fun, and functional electric conversion. less
My Tuned I8 Surprised Everyone at The Dragstrip
The reviewer takes his modified BMW i8 to the drag strip to test its performance after recent upgrades, including a custom exhaust and intake modifica... moretions. While the car's unique styling garners attention, its performance on the strip is a mixed bag. The i8 achieves respectable quarter-mile times, dipping into the 12-second range, and the reviewer notes its strong launch capability, especially with launch control. However, he expresses a slight disappointment that it didn't break into the 11s as hoped, attributing this partly to street tires and a non-prepped surface. The custom exhaust is praised for improving the sound of the three-cylinder engine, though the reviewer acknowledges the inherent limitations of the powertrain. Despite the performance results, the reviewer reiterates that the i8, especially at its original price point, is not a traditional performance car but offers a unique hybrid experience. He concludes that for the price he paid for the modified car, it was a phenomenal deal and hints at future hybrid turbo upgrades to further enhance its performance. less
Making The BMW I8 The Supercar It Was Meant To Be
The reviewer aims to transform the BMW i8 into the supercar it was 'meant to be,' addressing criticisms of its speed. While acknowledging th... moree car's unique styling and the appeal of its carbon fiber construction, the reviewer highlights significant drawbacks, particularly the complex and inconvenient access to the battery and engine bay, and the somewhat basic interior design that doesn't match the exterior's flair. The car's performance is improved with a Stage 2 tune, reducing the 0-60 time from 4.1 to 3.8 seconds by removing torque limitations. The reviewer also installs a new carbon fiber steering wheel with an LCD display, enhancing the supercar feel. Despite the car's polarizing reception, the reviewer expresses strong affection for it, praising its smooth ride, attention-grabbing presence, and the efficiency benefits of its hybrid powertrain, achieving an impressive 90+ MPG equivalent. Future plans include exhaust and downpipe upgrades, and potentially a larger turbo swap, aiming for 450-500 horsepower. less
We Built Our Own Tesla Cyberquad and It's Absolutely Insane!
This video chronicles the ambitious DIY build of a Tesla Cyberquad, affectionately named 'Starscream,' by the creator. Starting with a Yamah... morea Raptor 700 as a base, the project involved a complete powertrain swap to electric, utilizing components from an electric motorcycle. The reviewer highlights the challenges of integrating the battery and motor into the existing frame, the decision to mount the motor on the swingarm despite unsprung weight concerns, and the aesthetic transformation to mimic the Tesla Cyberquad design using origami and ABS. Key performance metrics revealed impressive capabilities, including a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds with street tires and a top speed of 102 mph. The quad also demonstrated exceptional pulling power, managing to tow a 5,000-pound Humvee. Despite some initial setbacks with batteries and a noisy operation, the final build is praised for its performance, range (estimated full day of riding), and stealthy electric nature. The reviewer also touches on the unique Tesla owner dating site and promotes a raffle for a Tesla Model S/X/3/Y. less
I’m Giving All My Tesla Stuff Away
The creator of RichRebuilds is giving away a significant portion of his Tesla and EV conversion parts, including motors, controllers, wiring, and even... more a complete Zero motorcycle setup. He explains this is a way to give back to the community and address criticism about his perceived negativity towards Tesla. The video also features the creator attempting to wrap a salvaged Tesla Model S P85, which he intends to sell. He candidly admits his inexperience with wrapping, highlighting imperfections but also the potential value for a buyer seeking an affordable Tesla. The creator expresses a desire to diversify his content beyond just Tesla, embracing a broader car enthusiasm that includes gas cars, while still maintaining a focus on EVs. He also promotes a Tesla raffle for the Chicago Chesed Fund and his personal Ridge Wallet. less
How Tesla Rewarded Me For Telling The Truth
The reviewer details a long and often contentious relationship with Tesla, stemming from initial enthusiasm and ownership to significant frustrations ... morewith parts availability, repair restrictions, and the company's treatment of salvaged vehicles. Key issues highlighted include Tesla's refusal to sell parts to independent repairers, the denial of mandatory airbag recalls on accident-damaged cars, and the disabling of Supercharging access for salvaged vehicles, even after owners paid to have it reinstated. The reviewer also recounts a deeply negative experience purchasing a used Model X, which involved significant delays and poor communication. Ultimately, despite being a shareholder and having a referral code that drove sales, Tesla banned him from referral incentives, citing 'bad faith' actions on his YouTube channel. The reviewer concludes that his true calling lies more with the broader DIY electric vehicle community than with Tesla owners, who he feels are less inclined to tinker due to warranties and payments. less
We Hacked a Tesla Model 3 to All Wheel Drive and It’s Fantastic!
This video documents a comprehensive conversion of a rear-wheel-drive Tesla Model 3 Long Range into an all-wheel-drive performance variant. The proces... mores involves adding a front drive unit, axles, struts, and a dual-motor battery, along with custom wiring and programming. The reviewer highlights the significant performance gains, noting a reduction in 0-60 time from 4.3 to 3.8 seconds. Additionally, a performance boost from Electrified Garage's Stage 1 tune is applied. A notable upgrade includes Model S rear calipers and two-piece rotors for enhanced braking. A surprising addition is a dual exhaust sound system, which the reviewer humorously integrates. While the conversion is presented as feasible, the cost is estimated between $11,000-$13,000 installed, with parts often sourced from salvaged vehicles via companies like Kali Motive. The reviewer concludes that while the conversion is impressive, it's a complex and costly endeavor. less
Can This Cheap Lamborghini Replace My Tesla?
Richard from RichRebuilds explores the used electric vehicle market, seeking a project car to replace his Tesla. While initially looking for alternati... moreves, the video primarily showcases a deep dive into various salvage vehicles, including several Teslas, a BMW i8, and surprisingly, a Lamborghini Urus. The reviewer highlights the Carly app as a valuable diagnostic tool, particularly for identifying issues like a faulty fuel tank pressure sensor in the i8. The search for a unique EV project leads him to a Lamborghini Urus, which he deems an "easy fix" despite its dated interior. Ultimately, the reviewer finds himself drawn back to the idea of more Tesla projects, questioning if the market is oversaturated with them. The video also features a humorous segment where a Bentley is gifted to a friend, and a discussion about the depreciation of performance BMWs. less
Tesla Cyberquad Build: Failure, Disaster, Death and Destruction
This installment of the Tesla Cyberquad build chronicles a series of setbacks and challenges, from sourcing parts to overcoming electrical and mechani... morecal failures. The creator details the difficulties in obtaining a suitable battery and motor setup, including the destruction of multiple components and the need to hotwire a salvaged police bike. Despite the numerous issues, including a dead battery, a damaged replacement, and blown main boards, the project eventually sees progress with the integration of a smaller controller and a functional gauge cluster. The video also touches upon the mechanical complexities of the chain drive system and the need for further parts like a new rear axle and brake assembly to ensure reliability. While the build is far from complete, the episode highlights the persistent effort required to overcome significant obstacles in custom electric vehicle projects. less
We Hacked the Tesla Model 3 and Its True Potential Is Insane
This video explores the potential for aftermarket performance upgrades on the Tesla Model 3, specifically focusing on the 'Ghost Model 3' pa... moreckage developed by Electrified Garage in collaboration with Engine X. The reviewer highlights the limitations of stock Tesla performance, where owners cannot easily increase power beyond factory offerings. The core of the video demonstrates that a modified Long Range All-Wheel Drive Model 3 (Ghost Stage 2) can match or even outperform a factory Performance Model 3 in acceleration tests. The reviewer praises the ability to now tune Teslas independently of the manufacturer, drawing parallels to traditional performance tuning in the automotive industry. While acknowledging the niche market for such upgrades and potential restrictions, the video champions this as a significant step towards broader EV adoption and customization for enthusiasts. less
I Found The World's Cheapest Porsche Taycan Turbo, The $200,000 Tesla Killer
Rich Rebuilds inspects a heavily damaged Porsche Taycan Turbo, acquired through eBay Motors. While acknowledging the Taycan's striking design and... more performance potential, particularly its advanced braking system and overall aesthetic which he deems superior to the Tesla Model S, the reviewer highlights significant drawbacks. The interior, despite attempts at luxury, is criticized for "awkward perforated plastic" and "bizarre wood trim." More critically, the extensive undercarriage damage, including bent control arms, a cracked wheel, and potential battery cooling system issues, suggests a catastrophic accident. The scarcity and high cost of replacement parts are noted as major hurdles for repair. Ultimately, the Taycan is presented as a visually impressive but potentially impractical and prohibitively expensive electric vehicle, especially in its damaged state. less
I Built A $2,000 Electric Car
In this final installment of the DIY cheap EV build, RichRebuilds completes the reassembly of a Chevrolet Spark EV, including painting and addressing ... morevarious mechanical issues like coolant leaks and a broken reservoir tab. The video highlights the challenges of repairing the EV-specific cooling system and a cracked inverter tube, showcasing resourceful fixes using ABS plastic and epoxy. The reviewer also touches upon replacing a damaged headlight connector and bulb, and cleaning the interior. The car is then taken for a surprisingly spirited test drive, with the reviewer impressed by its torque and overall fun factor, deeming it a great commuter or first car. The video culminates in a surprise reveal to the host's daughter, who is presented with the "pizza car" and a scooter for extended range, though she initially seems hesitant to give up her Toyota Tacoma. The host concludes by emphasizing the incredible value of a functional EV for $2,000 and suggests potential body-swap modifications for future projects. less
I Thought I Knew How to Paint a Car, I Was Wrong
In this episode of Rich Rebuilds, the host embarks on the challenging task of painting body panels for his budget EV project, a Chevrolet Bolt. He adm... moreits his previous experience was limited to spray cans and seeks professional guidance from Dan's Auto Body. The process proves to be far more intricate and labor-intensive than anticipated, involving meticulous disassembly, cleaning, sanding, and masking. The host expresses boredom and fatigue early on, highlighting the tedious nature of professional auto body work. Despite the challenges and the host's initial desire to speed things up, the video emphasizes the skill and time required for a quality paint job, contrasting it with his previous DIY methods. The episode concludes with a successful color match and application, leaving the host with a newfound respect for auto body professionals and a firm decision to never paint a car himself again. less
Installing a Pizza Oven in an Electric Car, What Could Go Wrong?
This video chronicles the ambitious, albeit chaotic, project of integrating a pizza oven into a salvaged Chevrolet Spark EV. The host, Richard, detail... mores his struggles with sourcing parts for a previous electric motorcycle project, leading him to acquire a damaged Spark EV for a fraction of its original cost. The core of the video focuses on the donor vehicle for the pizza oven, a former Domino's delivery car, and the process of salvaging its warming unit. While the host expresses enthusiasm for the unique modification and the potential for a food delivery service, the project faces significant setbacks. The donor car's oven unit proves difficult to remove, and the salvaged Spark EV itself experiences critical failures, including reduced propulsion and a burning smell, ultimately rendering it inoperable. The video highlights the challenges of DIY EV modifications and salvaged parts, concluding with the Spark EV needing further repairs and the host planning to learn painting skills for the next phase. less
Fixing Everything Wrong With My Tesla Model X
Rich from Rich Rebuilds tackles a series of issues plaguing his Tesla Model X, which he previously deemed 'useless.' The video details repai... morers for a coolant leak requiring battery removal, a faulty control arm, and a rodent-damaged air filter. A significant portion is dedicated to explaining why standard brake pads fail prematurely on EVs due to lack of use and moisture, highlighting a new galvanized brake pad solution from NRS Brakes designed for electric vehicles. The reviewer contrasts these with OEM pads, showing premature rust on a 3,000-mile Tesla pad versus the NRS pad after 10,000 miles. The total repair cost, including parts and labor for the coolant leak, control arms, alignment, and brake work, amounted to approximately $1,800. While acknowledging the high cost, the reviewer frames it within the context of the vehicle's original price and the necessity of these repairs for an out-of-warranty EV. less
How I Got Scammed on a Super Rare Tesla Missing a Major Part
This video chronicles a cautionary tale of purchasing a Tesla sight unseen, resulting in a significant financial loss for the creator. The "rare&... morequot; Tesla, advertised as a P85D, was discovered to be a heavily modified 75D lacking a battery, rendering it essentially worthless for its intended purpose. The reviewer details the extensive process of stripping the car for parts, highlighting the complexities of Tesla's engineering, particularly concerning autopilot retrofits and the differences between single and dual-motor configurations. While the purchase was a clear "loss," the video showcases the creator's resourcefulness in salvaging usable components for other projects, emphasizing the challenges and potential pitfalls of the used EV market. The narrative also touches upon Tesla's evolving support policies, as exemplified by a separate anecdote about a Tesla owner being denied charging access for a rebuilt vehicle. less
We Swapped a Bigger Motor Into a Tesla and What Happened Was Pretty Insane
This video details an ambitious and unconventional modification: swapping a Tesla Model S 75D's powertrain for that of a wrecked P100D. The revie... morewer highlights the significant performance gap between the two trims, noting the 75D's 4.2-second 0-60 time and 259-mile range versus the P100D's 2.3-second 0-60 and 300+ mile range. The primary motivation for the customer was to avoid the high cost of purchasing a used P100D directly, which can exceed $90,000. The process involved extensive part swapping, including the drive unit, battery pack, junction box, and cooling systems, with significant custom wiring modifications required due to differences between the smaller and larger drive units. A key takeaway is that while the conversion is technically possible by leveraging existing Tesla configurations, it is not a plug-and-play solution and requires specialized expertise. The final cost for the customer, after selling salvaged parts from both vehicles, was an impressive $33,000 for a P100D conversion, saving over $55,000 compared to buying a factory P100D. However, a significant caveat emerged: Tesla disabled Supercharging functionality on the converted vehicle post-modification. less
How We Are Giving Our Tesla Cyberquad The Tesla Look
This episode of Rich Rebuilds focuses on the aesthetic modification of a Tesla Cyberquad to more closely resemble the official Tesla design. The host ... moredetails the construction of aluminum trestles for mounting ABS body panels, the creation of rear fender flares, and the integration of a rear seat structure. Significant attention is given to fabricating a front bumper and nose cone, incorporating an LED light bar with a diffuser for a seamless look, and addressing potential supply chain issues for necessary parts. The video also covers mechanical adjustments, including fitting an industrial chain and sprockets, and discusses the placement and design of a gauge cluster and controller housing. While the project aims for a visually accurate replica, the primary focus remains on the fabrication and customization process rather than performance testing or a critical review of the Cyberquad itself. less
Why I Am Still Laughing at Tesla Salvage Buyers
The reviewer visits a salvage auction in Florida, highlighting that many people are still overpaying for damaged Teslas. While examining several vehic... moreles, including a Ford Super Duty and a BMW i8, the focus remains on Teslas. The reviewer discusses the high cost of replacement parts, such as a $1,500 windshield for a Model X, and the potential for Tesla to disable Supercharging on salvaged vehicles. A specific Model X (75D) is analyzed, noting its rear quarter panel damage and torn bumper, with an estimated repair cost of $8,500. Despite this, the auction price of $50,000, plus repairs, makes it comparable to a clean title used Model X, leading the reviewer to question the value proposition for salvage buyers. The video also briefly touches on the Pontiac Fiero as a base for kit cars and a Hellcat Challenger, but the core message is about the questionable economics of buying salvaged Teslas. less