My first attempt with A2Z and Tesla SC

[Tampamike]

Overall successful.

Now for the longer version.

First, I ordered the package deal of AC and DC adapters. I only got the DC one from UPS yesterday with a note apologizing for the lack of the AC one (high demand, it’ll come later as soon as we can …). Total time from ordering to receipt was 20 days.

It took several (4 or 5) tries to get the adapter fully engaged with the Tesla cord. Seems to be tight side to side so a bit of wiggling side to side seemed to help. You’ll know if it isn’t engaged when you plug it in and only get white lights on the charge port. That will be followed by orange lights and a charge failure a short time later.

P & C didn’t work. I tried it at least three different times. I suspected it wouldn’t as I never had the Tesla icon displayed in the old FordPass under P&C after receiving the OTA. The blue lights light up in the charge port but it would not start blinking, indicating that the car was actually charging. It just sits there like that - plugged in and not charging (see below).

Three other methods were all successful - Tesla app, FordPass app on my phone and Public Charging app in the car.

I bought some dry lubricant on the advice of @ChasingCoral at the Lowe’s next to the chargers. I’ll try that next time.


Plugged in and not charging with P&C:

Sponsored

 

[aggiepm]

I just received and tried my A2Z adapter last night. Like you it took 4-5 times before it worked. I was able to engage the lock switch each time I would think that means it's in all the way but maybe not? But once it worked, Plug and Charge totally worked. Leave for a road trip tomorrow excited to not be waiting in line at EA.

 

[Mach-Lee]

I just received and tried my A2Z adapter last night. Like you it took 4-5 times before it worked. I was able to engage the lock switch each time I would think that means it's in all the way but maybe not? But once it worked, Plug and Charge totally worked. Leave for a road trip tomorrow excited to not be waiting in line at EA.

It might be helpful to draw a line or mark on the lock switch in the fully locked position as a reference. Then you can see if it's fully locked while using it.

 

[Tampamike]

It might be helpful to draw a line or mark on the lock switch in the fully locked position as a reference. Then you can see if it's fully locked while using it.

That lock switch is a weak point. It doesn’t really ”click” into the lock position. Then, the labeling is a little quirky? If I had designed it, I would have made it so the the word “Unlocked,” in red, shows when it is unlocked and “Locked,” in green, shows when it IS locked.

 

[bbulkow]

I also had trouble getting that lock switch mastered.

My technique is to flip the adapter upside down so you can see the switch and not more it inadvertantly, line up the charger plug and put the adapter against the tire that is handy nearby, pull the switch to full open, jam the plug home (hear the click), then push the switch closed all the way, then test by tugging, then test the switch for closed again.

I do not have the strength to fully insert the adapter with my hands alone, and i'm fairly strong. the chance of moving that switch while inserting is high. Therefore you have to check switch position right before inserting. Perhaps with some plugs, and more wear, it will get easier. I tried 5 different chargers at my test supercharge station, some were easier than others.

The fact is the adapter can be positively locked mechanically but the switch not engaged thus no power is another footgun. Check the switch before and after doing the tug.

I actually appreciate a2z went the extra mile in safety, but i don't look forward to explaining the dance to anyone who borrows my car. Hopefully the ford adapter (number about 33k!) will be friendlier.

I also paintpenned the lock direction on the side of the adapter. Cautiously, i applied some spray drylube to the slider, i dont recommend this, you may not know the electrical properties of your various lubes. I do recommend a paintpen tho. The grey on grey of the a2z printing is illegible, the arrow is visible only in the best of light.

With all that, it worked great!

 

[bbulkow]

That lock switch is a weak point. It doesn’t really ”click” into the lock position. Then, the labeling is a little quirky? If I had designed it, I would have made it so the the word “Unlocked,” in red, shows when it is unlocked and “Locked,” in green, shows when it IS locked.

I wouldn't color code in this case. Red / green is too common for safety critical gear, and logically green or red could be locked or unlocked.

But if you own some paintpens you can mark it up however you feel!

 

[Sikkun]

I had to shove mine in 5-6 times before I got the lock fully engaged, no problems after that.

played around a couple more minutes after charging putting the adapter in and off and now I could get it to click locked every time.

Sponsored