How Hard Is It To Upgrade A Power Wheels Motor?

If you’re looking to add some more excitement to playtime, upgrading the motor on your kid’s Power Wheels ride-on vehicle is a great way to go. It’s also very manageable, as long as you have a solid understanding of the basics, along with the right tools and equipment for the job. 

Whether the goal is more speed, better durability, or improved torque, let’s break down everything you need to know about upgrading a Power Wheels motor.

The Different Types of Motors For Ride-On Toys

Power Wheels and most similar ride-ons are usually powered by standard 550 motors that are designed to work with either 6 or 12 volts. They’re built for light use and basic operation. And while they’re reliable and adequate for beginners and/or young children, they’re pretty limited in terms of speed, durability, and overall performance. This is clear if you try to push them beyond their intended capacity. Running them at 18 volts, for example, will ultimately lead to burnout; at 24 volts, you’re looking at guaranteed failure in a very short amount of time.

For a better (and more fun) driving experience, many parents and hobbyists will eventually turn to a motor upgrade. But it’s also important to choose a motor that’s purpose-built for the demands of a ride-on vehicle. For instance, while some people have experimented with motors from radio-controlled cars, these usually won’t deliver the performance that’s needed to power a heavier and more robust ride-on.

Here at ML Toys, we offer two motor upgrades specifically designed for Power Wheels and similar cars:Performance 550 motors andPerformance 775 motors. Both have been rpm tested and are proven to be the fastest, longest-lasting options you can put in a ride-on, as long as they're used properly.

The Performance 550 motor provides a straightforward and cost-effective solution for those in search of a modest power boost. Designed to work with systems up to 18 volts, it delivers 10-15% more speed than the standard motor. A quick and inexpensive upgrade, the Performance 550 motor is included in allStage I and II kits. This makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking to enhance your vehicle without having to make extensive modifications or add other components. It’s important to note, however, that the Performance 550 motor isn’t meant to be used with 24-volt systems–it simply won’t be able to withstand the higher voltage for very long.

Our Performance 775 motor, on the other hand, is the ultimate upgrade. These motors are designed for serious durability and versatility, and are capable of handling voltage systems from 12 all the way up to 24 volts. Basically, the more power you put into it, the faster you go. At lower voltages, the 775 focuses on torque, making it perfect for applications like climbing hills, navigating rough terrain, or towing. When you run it at 24 volts, it becomes a powerhouse, delivering speed and power that transforms the riding experience into a rip-roaring good time. Just know that if you’re upgrading to the 775 motor, you should also consider stepping up to more durable gearboxes (as well as motor mounts, in some cases) that are better able to handle the increased torque and power.

The Motor Installation Process

Installing your upgraded Power Wheels motor isn’t as tricky as it might sound. As long as you’re handy with basic tools and willing to learn, it shouldn’t be too difficult.

First, check out your ride-on’s existing motor and voltage setup to make sure the upgrade’s going to work. Most cars use 550 motors running at 12 volts, but double-check your specific vehicle, since this can vary by model. Once you’ve picked the right motor, gather the tools you’ll need: screwdrivers, a soldering iron or crimping tool, and maybe some replacement wires, a gearbox, or a higher-voltage battery if you’re going for maximum performance.

To install the motor, you’ll need to disassemble part of the vehicle so you can access the motor housing. Disconnect the old motor from the wiring and gearbox, then install the new one. Make sure it lines up properly with the gearbox and that all wiring connections are secure. Before putting everything back together, test the motor to make sure it’s working properly. Once you’re confident everything is running smoothly, reassemble the vehicle and take it for a spin to confirm the upgrade was successful.

Breaking In Your Power Wheels Motor

Taking the time to properly break in your upgraded motor is a simple yet important step in helping it last longer, run cooler, and perform better. The key is to go slow and steady, running the vehicle at low speed for about 20 minutes.This lets the motor brushes wear evenly and helps to reduce the sparks you may notice at first. Note: The sparks are normal, so don’t worry! They’ll go down once the motor breaks in.

While you’re doing this, try to avoid stopping too often. Each time you stop during the break-in period, it causes the motor to jerk, which produces bigger sparks. After a while, those sparks can chip or even damage the motor brushes. Once that happens, it’s game over–the motor can’t be fixed. Which means you’ll have to buy a new one and start over.

You also want to keep things moving forward (as opposed to backward). Running the motor in reverse during break-in will cause the brushes to wear the wrong way, which tends to shorten the motor’s lifespan. As long as you stick to forward motion at low speeds, you should be fine.

Troubleshooting Common Issues With Power Wheels Motors

Upgraded motors do come with some challenges, but they can be managed with a little know-how. Overheating is a common issue, especially when you’re using high-voltage motors or the vehicle is being used for an extended amount of time. To prevent this, try to avoid putting too much weight in the car, take breaks to let the motor cool off, and consider addinga heatsink or cooling fan for added protection. 

Compatibility with the gearbox is another important factor. Bigger motors, like the Performance 775, can put extra stress on standard gearboxes, which may give out under the added load. Upgrading to a tougher gearbox is usually a smart move. Stock wiring and battery systems might also struggle with the extra power demands, so you may need to beef those up as well to handle the increased performance.

Step Up Your Power Wheels’ Performance 

Upgrading the motor in your kid’s ride-on vehicle can take the fun and adventure to a whole new level. Whether you choose the simpler 550 upgrade or go all out with a 775 motor, the improvement in speed, power, and performance will be instantly noticeable. Just be sure to follow the right steps, and take advantage of resources like ML Toys’ expertise and products. For more tips, tools, and upgrade options, visitML Toys or check out our dedicatedYouTube channel.