The use of LiPo in a 501X

[V-Rossi]

Hi,
I want to use LiPo batteries for training (as LiPo isn't allowed during the nationals) so I searched this forum for a thread about LiPo in a 3x3 saddle config like the 501X and BJ4.
Can someone give me the link to that topic or a link to the shop selling them?

[veecee]

http://www.maxamps.com/products.php?cat=54

I'm looking into this right now!

[stefke]

Looks OK, But I don't like the idea of unprotected Lipo cells in an offroader.

[V-Rossi]

Thanks for the link, I think I'll order the 4400 pack. To compensate the loss of weight compared to Ni-MH, I'll be using some small weights to create a realistic balance like the one I'll have during the races with the Ni-MH's.
@Stefke: do you think they need more protection? With a bit of selfmade stuff that can't be an obstacle for offroad use I think/hope.

[Chequered Flag Racing]

I use mine without protection

Have this one for my B4 / T4 and it's fine. Also have the same make/style in my RC18 and that's fine to.

Pic show's 11.1v pack but I have the 7.4v pack

[V-Rossi]

The problem is the type of batteries used in the 501X, a saddle pack namely. If I stick some small spots of velcro between the cell 'holes', it is possible to use this kind of LiPo's. But I prefer the saddle config LiPo, as it looks more like the normal Ni-MH saddle packs.
In a B4, batteries like the Kokam/Orion Trakpower 4900 are just perfect.

[veecee]

I ended up buying the 5500. I figured if I had to add weight, I might as well get something out of it. I would rather another 1100 mah than just dead weight.

[V-Rossi]

Do you like the LiPo? With that I mean the 'feeling' of it (the same balance as driving a Ni-MH etc.), power,...

[Chequered Flag Racing]

Originally Posted by V-Rossi

Do you like the LiPo? With that I mean the 'feeling' of it (the same balance as driving a Ni-MH etc.), power,...

do I like LiPo? I do

More instant power when throttle applied and the voltage doesn't tail of like Ni-MH.
Only feel it going soft when volts reach esc 6v shutdown

Ran a LiPo in T4 on grass a week or to back and the thing just wanted to wheelie down the straight even after it had left the corner , but then I was running the mamba 77k motor & esc, extra

[V-Rossi]

The LiPo is ordered
Maybe a stupid question, but are the belts of the TA-05 the same as the ones of the 501X (and the pullies too)?

[Lplate]

Hi,
Regarding the MaxAmp 4400mah/5500mah Lipo Saddle Packs...
Does anyone have pictures on how you strap the lipos in?

I'm thinking I may need to build a battery tray for it.

[jimmy]

I guess you could maybe tape the lipo cells to the battery straps using the reinforced tape stuff they using in touring cars for the same job. Then you could possibly just clip the cells in and out?
Is that a bizzare idea? haha.

are those maxamp things slightly taller than nimh's ?

[veecee]

Yep the Max Amp packs are taller. I went with the 5500, did a trial fit and they just touched the body without the straps in place. In hindsight I probably should have gone for the 4400 but I didn't want to add a whole lot of "dead" weight.

Haven't run them and haven't managed to work out the best way to secure them in yet. I'm contemplating on having recessed milled in to accomodate the packs better or maybe getting some plastic cradles. The posts will then sit on top of the cradle and secured in with longer screws from the bottom of the chassis so I can still use the CF straps. Just have to get off my lazy arse and do it.......

[501X Driver]

Originally Posted by Lplate

Hi,
Regarding the MaxAmp 4400mah/5500mah Lipo Saddle Packs...
Does anyone have pictures on how you strap the lipos in?

I'm thinking I may need to build a battery tray for it.

I have the 4400 in my 501X and I have taken some thin xtra body lexan and built small trays to hold the battery in the chassis. I had a problem with the battery wanting to slide out of the body (after a crash or 2) but I just bent a small 1/4" lip and used double sided tape to hold it in place. No need for anything put the thinest you can find. Not paper thin. Also I have the wires from the saddle packs on the outside of the straps to keep the pack from sliding in and hitting the belt. And I used the thick (2mm) and medium (1mm) spacer under each battery post to allow the strap to fit the taller saddle pack and lexan tray.
Hope this make since and helps.

Great Racing

[veecee]

I had some cradles made up and they work well. I needed to dremel them though because th actual Maxamp packs are bigger than the specs on their website... I am overseas but I will post some pics once I'm back home.

[froggie]

I run the 4400 lipos. And you with have to shim up the batt post and just use servo tape on the top of the batt and the bottom. I havent ever had mine come out and nethier have my friends.

[501X Driver]

I have some molded trays that will hold the MaxAmps 4400 Lipo's.
I will get some pictures posted soon.
If someone wants to build your own I can help with the details or I may offer some for sale if I get the finished products looking better. They function perfect. You do want to double stick tape them to the chassis but they hold the battery perfectly. I have mine placed about 1/8" from the belt and they haven't moved.
Pics coming soon.

[AaronR]

Originally Posted by 501X Driver

I have some molded trays that will hold the MaxAmps 4400 Lipo's.
I will get some pictures posted soon.
If someone wants to build your own I can help with the details or I may offer some for sale if I get the finished products looking better. They function perfect. You do want to double stick tape them to the chassis but they hold the battery perfectly. I have mine placed about 1/8" from the belt and they haven't moved.
Pics coming soon.

I look forward to your photos and info!

[501X Driver]

Here is a picture of the first ones made. They are fitted for the MaxAmps 4400 Saddle Packs
I used double sided tape to secure them into place. They have been excellent and haven't shifted at all.

[werner1619]

I would love to see a 501 with lipo in action....?
come on

W.