RC Car - Is 1500 mah Enough For 5 Minutes

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Is 1500 mah Enough Current?

Comments: Hi Pro,

I was wondering, is a 1500mah battery too little to use with a 17 turn Speed Gem hooked up to a Novak Fusion for a 5 min race? How about a 1700?

Chuck

Response: There is more than enough current in a standard 1500 mah battery to finish a 5 minute race while using a 17 turn modified motor. A lower power level may even force you to drive better and crash less thus making you faster (you know the old saying, "slow is fast"). Also, if you can build up the self control to drive efficiently, when you step up to the better equipment you will already have the driving skills to utilize them to their maximum potential.

I remember back in the early 90's when all we had was 1200 mah cells. 1400's were a huge break through for us and we raced 5 minute races then too. Although motors have become faster overall from then, they have also become more efficient. Plus, speed controls are using higher switching rates and offer lower on-resistance for even further increases in efficiency and run time.

If for some strange reason you are having run time problems, you can adjust your gear ratio to make time. Run a slightly smaller pinion gear or bigger spur gear (both have the same effect of raising the gear ratio). A slight change in driving style will help also, try rolling your finger on and off the throttle instead of driving with a toggle switch "on or off" technique.

I hope this helps,

Let's take off a few tenths per lap,

"PRO"
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