ECV and rain

[cbeardtx]

Due to a back injury from a car accident I have rented an ECV for my upcoming trip to Disney (June 22-30). Can someone tell me how they deal with an ECV in the rain? I read somewhere that you can't get it wet and that a pancho is a good way to keep it dry. Do you hide out in a building until the storm passes, or do you cover it and keep going? Sorry if this is a really stupid question, I'm just trying to figure this all out in advance. Thanks for the help!

 

[kaytieeldr]

Depends on the rain.

Be SURE to cover the control panel at even the slightest hint of damp. The electronics can get damaged. Some rental companies provide a shower cap for this.

Otherwise, if it's a rain where you'd put on a poncho and go, you can do that with the ECV.

If it's heavier, yes, you probably want to stay covered somewhere until it slacks off. There was one time I was able to stay dry by standing under the TTA track in Tomorrowland.

 

[mechurchlady]

I always carry about 6 to 10 ziploc bags in my bag. I split the side and cover the controls that way. Any grocery bag will also cover the controls. It does not hurt the ECV if it gets wet except the electrical controls. Check the battery as it should have a cover on it but if the leads are exposed then that is a hazard that needs to be covered or stay out of the rain.

 

[videogal1]

Look out for deep puddles, as well...Moisture thrown up under the deck of my scooter caused a mechanical problem and caused the wheels to lock up....sort of like the eventual problems encountered by boat trailers after being backed into water frequently. If you're staying off-site watch out for the "hard packed" sand parking lots...Sand and ECVs just don't mix.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

I will wear a poncho and keep the back of it draped over the back of the seat to keep the entire seat dry. I will have the front of it over the tiller, with an arm sticking out from under to hold it to the handlebars as well as steer. This also works to keep me almost completely dry (usually except for my feet, and I would probably be wearing sandals).

If I am going to be going into any building I will take it in with me and, if necessary, park it in the building.

 

[bidnow5]

I use a poncho that I drape the front over the controls and the back over my seat I stay dry and have never had a problem

 

[peemagg]

I was there in the monsoon this past week with my ECV. I bought online a cover for the controls. It has cuffs on it to put your hands threw. I also used a poncho to cover the battery area under the seat. It worked well for me. I also recommend steering clear of deep water if possible.

 

[toocherie]

I recommend taking a large bag (the big Disney ones work great!) and some of those alligator clips (the black ones). Put the bag over the tiller and controls loose enough that you can use the controls, then clip the bag at the bottom with the clips so it doesn't blow off. (Hope that makes sense.) It worked great! (I also "hid" under a monorail track once!)

 

[SueM in MN]

Also be aware that you may lose some traction if the ground is wet. This can be especially a problem when trying to stop or when going up or down hills.

And some of the 'protected' surfaces can get quite slippery. The roofed area in Epcot between the Mouseworks shop and the Electric Umbrella restaurant and the Epcot Character spot and Innoventions don't get directly wet. As people track in rain, those concrete ground surfaces get very slippery.

 

[Bete]

I was there in the monsoon this past week with my ECV. I bought online a cover for the controls. It has cuffs on it to put your hands threw. I also used a poncho to cover the battery area under the seat. It worked well for me. I also recommend steering clear of deep water if possible.

I'm in the process of buying my own scooter soon and I need these protections; so, I would appreciate getting this info.

For many who suggest using a poncho it sounds great; thanks for that idea, too.

 

[clkelley]

We bring our ECV camping with us and one thing we bring along as it sits outside at night is a "small" gas grill cover. Ideal fit for the ECV.

Also good to cover it up at the parks if you park it outside and the weather is iffy.

 

[Bete]

I haven't bought the scooter yet and I already have supplies for the rain for it. I picked up two ponchos for $1, 6 shower caps for a $1, and a jumbo laundry bag for $1 which is water resistant. I actually think on the laundry bag I will be able to cut it in half and have a spare cover for the battery and motor.