Budget Battery Options

[Fast_Fr8_]

Hello All,

I recently acquired a Hartland Mack Railbus from a dear friend who passed away are year or two ago.
I am in the process of converting it to Battery R/C.

I'd trying to keep this installation on a slim budget, and batteries can push up costs significantly.
What sort of batteries would you all recommend for a budget conversion?
(Chemistry, size, voltage, brand, etc.)

The space available in the baggage compartment is about 3 inches squared, and I hope to get 3-4 hours of runtime at nominal to medium speed (12v or less).

 

[Rhinochugger]

NiMh batteries sized AA would suffice. Ideally I'd go for an Eneloop or similar make for Low Self Discharge.

14.4v should be adequate - 12 cells. You can use two 7.2v packs in series if necessary.

Not sure about US suppliers, but it's far better to go for a battery pack, than to use single cells in multi-battery holders.

All you then need is a smart charger for NiMh batteries - again, not pricey.

 

[maxi-model]

Problem with battery conversions is you will need a speed controller of some type, as well as battery pack and charger. There are simple "volume switch" types and then there are those that can be radio controlled, but that adds to cost. Battery packs of sufficiant voltage, and giving you near the run time you want AA or sub C size, if NiMH chemistry, are about £35 - £45 at UK prices, same again for a smart charger that can handle the voltage. The speed controller (if simple non RC) and switchgear/charger socket/fuse side will add £25. Much more if you go RC control. You are looking at £150 to get started. Give Del Taporo, at G Scale Graphics in the US a call, well known and trusted, has some interesting kit. Click on link - Electronics or RCS Remote Control Systems | RemoteControlThrottles.com

 

[dunnyrail]

Problem with battery conversions is you will need a speed controller of some type, as well as battery pack and charger. There are simple "volume switch" types and then there are those that can be radio controlled, but that adds to cost. Battery packs of sufficiant voltage, and giving you near the run time you want AA or sub C size, if NiMH chemistry, are about £35 - £45 at UK prices, same again for a smart charger that can handle the voltage. The speed controller (if simple non RC) and switchgear/charger socket/fuse side will add £25. Much more if you go RC control. You are looking at £150 to get started. Give Del Taporo, at G Scale Graphics in the US a call, well known and trusted, has some interesting kit. Click on link - Electronics or RCS Remote Control Systems | RemoteControlThrottles.com

Sound advice Max.

 

[Paul M]

Hello All,

I recently acquired a Hartland Mack Railbus from a dear friend who passed away are year or two ago.
I am in the process of converting it to Battery R/C.

I'd trying to keep this installation on a slim budget, and batteries can push up costs significantly.
What sort of batteries would you all recommend for a budget conversion?
(Chemistry, size, voltage, brand, etc.)

The space available in the baggage compartment is about 3 inches squared, and I hope to get 3-4 hours of runtime at nominal to medium speed (12v or less).

Don't forget, like everything else, you tend to get what you pay for. Cheaper batteries might work well, but their life time may be limited