We all know that problems are going to occur with our RC boats.
Problems could vary from interference to range issues.
Here are a few tips to prevent or repair a few common problems.
It's better to be safe than sorry.
So if you think you might need any of these, feel free to help yourself.
Batteries • You should always use batteries within the specified voltage and capacity.
Check your boat to make sure your batteries meet the maximum voltage.
• Always use rechargeable batteries.
Treat them well and they will be much cheaper and better for your boat.
If you must use non rechargeable batteries, make sure they are fixed to their support.
The vibrations form the motor will loosen the batteries and cause problems if they are not secured with duct tape, rubber bands, or anything else you can get to work.
Antennas • Never cut or coil your antenna.
It should stand straight up.
This will provide you with the best reception.
Protecting Your Radio • Protect your receiver and batteries from water damage by keeping them in a plastic bag or balloon sealed with tape.
Repairing a Wet Receiver • Take off the Receiver and servos cases.
• Dip your electronics in isopropyl alcohol for 1 hour.
• Use compressed air to blow the alcohol off the electronics, and then let dry for a few hours.
• Put fully charged pack into receiver then turn on and let all the power drain.
• Check for corrosion on the receiver.
If there is corrosion, the receiver must be replaced.
• Connect servos and charged batteries, and test.
• If receiver didn't work, it needs to be replaced.
• If the servos don't work, repeat this process.
• Use anti corrosion products such as corrosion X to prevent corrosion.
Radio Range and Interference • To check range, turn on transmitter and collapse the antenna.
Turn on the receiver and for gas boats, start the engine.
Move thirty yards away (15 for FM radios) and ask a friend to check the operation of the servos.
Make sure there aren't any vibrating or strange noises.
Don't launch your boat if your radio is erratic.
If range is too short, check for moisture at the receiver.
Dry it then use an anti-corrosion product to protect it.
• External Interference- If there is any interference; the cause may be other radio signals in the area.
The solution would be to find a new spot to use your boat.
• Internal interference- check if there are any scratches on the rotor.
This could be a result of the coil scraping the fly wheel.
• Loose or unprotected receiver.
Protect the receiver from vibrations in the engine by wrapping it in soft foam.
• Half charged batteries.
They themselves do not cause interference if half charged, but they do make the radio more prone to it.
Always make sure you use fully charged batteries when putting your boat in water.