Milwaukee Battery Mount for John Deere Perego Ride On

Convert a John Deere Perego ride on tractor to use Milwaukee M18 batteries.  I have tested this with M18 High Output XC8.0 batteries.  I believe it will also work with the 12.0 variant, but don't currently have those to test.  This will run with 1 or 2 batteries.  Make sure if you use 2 batteries, they are both fully charged when you start.  2 batteries will just provide a longer runtime.

Items you will need to purchase for this project and their associated amazon link:

M18 battery mount (2 pack)

Motor Speed Controller

Low Voltage Disconnect (To Protect your batteries)

Optional Items for wiring if you don't already own:

Spade Quick Disconnects

Fork Spade Connectors

12 Awg Wire

Printing:

I printed this on an X1C using the 0.2mm “Strength” preset.  

Walls: 6

Infill: 25%

Manual Supports under the flat part of ears on each side.

To assemble this project, remove the 2 screws currently holding the original lead acid battery in (save these for installation later). Remove the battery and cut the lead off the battery so you can use this on the new setup.  An alternative is cutting the lead off the tractor and using a different type of connector.  My battery was bad so I cut the lead from the battery.

The battery mount will need to be taken apart so the wires can be routed out the “back” of the holder instead of the default location.  The modified wire location is pictured.  The red terminal will need to be cut between the fuse and the mount so the wire can be moved.  I used the flat spade connector to put it back together after installation on the 3d printed mount.

I used m2 heat inserts to attach the low voltage cutoff to the 3d printed part, but double sided tape could be used as well.

Use 6, M4x16 bolts and nuts to secure the battery mounts to the 3d printed part. As I was installing, I shortened the black and red wires so everything would fit together.  Both red wires will go to the IN+ and both black wires will go to the IN-.  

The OUT+ and OUT- on the Low Voltage Disconnect will go to the P+ and P- on the Motor Speed Controller.  The motor speed controller is just a friction fit and will just slide into place on the side of the 3d printed mount.

The M+ and M- will go to the positive and negative on the plug you cut off the battery.  The plug has a + and - labeled so you will know which is positive and negative.

This can now be installed in the tractor.  The 2 screws you removed from the original battery mount are now used for reinstallation. Don't overtighten the front screw, just make it snug or you will crack the 3d printed piece.

Programming the Low Voltage Disconnect Module:

This is a summary of what is in the Amazon Description.  SWITCH 1 is closest to the OUT+ wire, and SWITCH 2 is below the LED Screen.  

Set SWITCH 1 to A

Set the module to “Discharge” mode. To do this, set SWITCH 2 to “M” position, when the LED displays “01” Short press “SET”.

Set the voltage cutoff level, to do this, set SWITCH 2 to “V”, press “UP” or “DOWN”  until LED says “CL” short press “SET” then press “UP” or “DOWN” to adjust the voltage cutoff.  Press “SET” to get the setting to take effect. I've set mine to 17v and so far haven't destroyed my battery, but your milage may vary.  Please do your own research to determine a voltage cutoff you feel would be safe.

Set the voltage reconnect level.  set SWITCH 2 to “V”, press “UP” or “DOWN” until LED says “CH”, short press “SET” then press “UP” or “DOWN” to adjust the voltage reconnect level.  Press “SET” to get the setting to take effect. You want this to be higher than CL so it doesn't turn back on right when the load is taken off the battery.  I currently have mine set to 18v, but I'm still messing with this value and it is subject to change.  Once again, do your own testing/research.