RC Car - Same Batteries, Different Performance

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Same Batteries, Different Performance

Comments: I currently have two 1400 mah batteries and a 1700 mah battery that I share between my buggy (Hornet) and my road car (Tamiya TAO3F). One of the 1400's doesn't last as long as the other 1400 - yet they are the same age, same brand and have been treated the same way. Do I need to erase its "memory"? If so, how is this done? Any tips, ideas or answers will be appreciated.

Thanks again.

Response: Your battery problems could be attributed to a number of issues. I know that you said that you treated both 1400 mah batteries the same but this is probably not true. You may have over charged one a couple of times or not fully discharged it every run which as you said, may have developed a memory.

It is actually very easy to erase the memory that a nicad cell develops. To do this you must cycle the battery a few times (about 3 times usually does it). By cycling the battery I mean to fully discharge it, charge it fully and then discharge it again. If you fully charge and then discharge the battery about 3 times the memory should be gone.

To eliminate the development of a memory in the first place (and from the point in which you eliminate it) make sure that you fully discharge the battery after each run. It is rare that the battery is fully discharged after using it in your car so an external discharger is necessary. Batteries can be drained using a light bulb(s), resistor(s), or even a discharge function available on some chargers.

Remember, a healthy battery is a fast, powerful, and long lasting battery.

Let's take off a few tenths per lap,

"PRO"
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