How to easily build a retracting system for your Tesla (or other EV) charging cable - Poc Network
This is a retractable solution for EV charging cables in the garage. A way to run power to your vehicle without the charging system or cable getting in the way of anything. Not only does it preserve the storage space for other things in the immediate area, but it clears the garage door that slides up and above it. Best of all, it doesn't cost that much to put together and it is quite a fulfilling DIY project to do at home by yourself or with others.
=======What was used=======
Aluminum Extrusion pieces
- 600mm to 1220mm lengths: https://amzn.to/3POaAru
- Alt Link (100mm to 1000mm lengths): https://amzn.to/3oM98df
Aluminum Corner Brackets
- 10 pack (only need 2 of them): https://amzn.to/3zECErL
- 3D Printable alternatives: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2957550
(note, we do recommend using the aluminum ones to make sure the corner connection is stable and unbreakable)
Additionals Brackets for reinforcement
- Corner Purchasable: https://amzn.to/3BsbDch
- Straight 2-hole Purchasable: https://amzn.to/3Q7U8SC
- All 3d printable brackets: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2503622
Eyebolt Brackets for the spring balancers
- 3D Printable (our own design): https://pnet.click/zamom
- Purchasable: https://amzn.to/3ScskPa
(note: either of these will require either M5 or M6 t-nuts depending on which model you get or the purchasable version or either for the printable one)
Spring-Loaded Hinges (you only need two)
- Door-version of the hinges: https://amzn.to/3bfg2ov
- Alternative option (there are actual hinged made for 2020 aluminum pieces, but they aren't spring-loaded, so they won't swing by themselves): https://amzn.to/3JeHxec
Spring Balancers
- Sumake Spring Balancer (1.3-3.3lb): https://amzn.to/3PNmjXw
- (Optional) Sumake Spring Balancer (.6-1.8lb) for cable swag if you need/use two balancers: https://amzn.to/3PNxfnQ
(Note: You can use any brand, we just have experience with Sumake and like the brand)
Carabiner Clips (for attaching the Balancers to the eye-bolts)
- Purchasable: https://amzn.to/3OM7pPY
Misc
- You may want to stock up on extra t-nuts and bolts. You'd want to use either M5 or M6 (with the latter being stronger).
- Screws to mount the hinges to the wall or wood (make sure to aim for studs or use really good anchors)
- Something to wrap around the charging cable from the spring loaders. Something that won't cause any damage to the cable. We used Nite Ize Gear Ties (https://amzn.to/3ziVROn)
Optional (if building out a suspension wire across the top)
- 3D Printable parts (our own design): https://pnet.click/32ue1
- Steel Wire +Crimps (purchasable): https://amzn.to/3zkYj75
(Note: We can't really say this is worth the effect through unless you can build it out properly to pull up on the front enough. If anything, it looks cooler than it is effective)
FOLLOW AND SUBSCRIBE VIA YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL NETWORKS:
βΆ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pocnetwork
βΆ Twitter - https://twitter.com/pocnetworknews
βΆ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PocNetwork
βΆ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/PocNetwork
SUBSCRIBE TO US ON YOUTUBE:
π¬ Youtube - https://pnet.click/ytsub
VISIT OUR WEBSITE:
https://www.pocnetwork.net
INTERESTED IN WHAT GEAR WE USE?
The question comes in from time to time and we have put together some lists of gear that we use both in the studio and when we are mobile. You can find it all here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/pocnetworktech
Last but not least, thank you for watching!