CHARGE THE BATTERY.
LiPo packs give a racecar the energy density it needs, and that same chemistry is the reason this page exists. Fifteen minutes of attention here goes a long way: a pack that lasts for years and a workspace that stays safe.
- The LiPo charger that shipped with your kit.
- An 11.1 V (3S) LiPo pack, you supply this. See "Recommended packs" below.
- A hard surface (concrete, tile, or a LiPo charging bag), not a bed or carpet.
- An AC outlet within reach.
- If you are under 16, an adult in the room with you while it charges.
RECOMMENDED PACKS.
The car runs on a standard 3-cell (3S) LiPo at 11.1 V nominal. Capacity between 4000 and 5500 mAh tends to be the sweet spot: longer runtime than smaller packs, lighter than larger ones. A of 25 or higher gives you the headroom the car wants.
Capacity: 4000 to 5500 mAh
C-rating: ≥ 25C (discharge)
Connector: XT60 (match the car's lead)
THE FIRST CHARGE.
A concrete floor or a LiPo charging bag is ideal. Carpet, bedding, and wood can catch if a pack overheats, so steer clear of those.
You should see a power LED. If nothing lights up, double-check the outlet before continuing.
The plug only fits one way, so if it resists, turn it around rather than pushing harder.
You may see a brief spark, this is the on the charger's capacitors and is normal.
For a 5000 mAh pack, that is 5 A or lower. 1 A is fine too if you have the time, and a slower charge is gentler on the pack.
A 5000 mAh pack at 1C takes roughly one hour. The charger signals complete with a solid LED or an audible tone, so you will know when it is done.