Important Information on Using LiPo Batteries

LiPo battery packs offer amazing performance, both in terms of output and capacity, translating to acceleration/traction and run time for an RC car. However, like all other batteries, it's absolutely crucial to handle LiPo battery packs properly.

**ALWAYS READ THE DOCUMENTATION THAT COMES WITH THE PRODUCT!**

If you're unsure about anything, contact the seller of the product.

Also, check out our video with important information about batteries.

LiPo stands for Lithium Polymer. A LiPo cell is rated at 3.7V but can range from 2.7V (fully discharged) to 4.2V (fully charged). Despite the many advantages of LiPo batteries, the biggest downside is that a LiPo battery must never be fully discharged as it will be damaged.

IMPORTANT WHEN USING LIPO BATTERIES:

1) Always read and follow the supplied instructions. If you don't understand them or are in doubt, contact the store.

2) Only use a charger specifically made for LiPo batteries.

3) The charger must be set correctly, or the LiPo battery can, in the worst-case scenario, explode!

4) LiPo battery packs with 2 or more cells should be charged with a balancer. This means each cell is charged individually. It provides the best charging and ensures the battery pack's longest possible lifespan.

5) LiPo battery packs should not be charged without supervision! You need to be nearby in case something goes wrong. Also, make sure the charger and battery pack are not placed near flammable materials.

6) Never charge with more than 1C! 1C corresponds to the battery pack's capacity, so if you have an 1800mAh battery pack, do not charge it with more than 1.8A. 3000mAh should not be charged with more than 3A, and so on. Some battery packs can be charged faster - for example, up to 2C. However, charging at 1C will give the longest lifespan.

7) LiPo battery packs are relatively sensitive, so if you crash your car, check if the battery pack has been damaged. If the LiPo battery pack bulges/puffs up, dispose of it immediately. LiPo batteries can be taken to recycling centers.

A LiPo battery must never be fully discharged

It is very important that the voltage in a LiPo battery does not drop below 3V. Most newer electronic speed controllers (ESC) in cars have Low Voltage Cut-off. This means they shut down when the voltage gets too low - it's super smart... if it's enabled. Check if your ESC has LVC or LiPo mode and enable it if you're using LiPo.

Alternatively, you can use a LiPo Low Voltage Alarm / LiPo Buzzer. It’s a smart little device that monitors LiPo battery voltage and signals with sound/light when it drops to 3V. A cheap and easy solution.

Storing LiPo battery packs

Immediately after using your LiPo battery, disconnect it from the car and the LiPo Buzzer. A LiPo battery is best stored at 75-80% charge. It is not optimal to leave the battery fully charged - but much better than leaving it discharged. Ideally, you should have a charger that can be set precisely. You can then charge it to 3.8V per cell, which is optimal for long-term storage. Some chargers even have a "storage" function specifically for this purpose.

LiPo quality

As with all products, there are different qualities of LiPo battery packs. Unfortunately, we often see battery packs that are "overrated" - i.e., the performance does not match the numbers specified for the battery pack. In the past, there have been many examples of LiPo battery packs exploding, which also relates to quality. In our opinion, the battery pack is the worst place to save money - especially since with LiPo batteries, it can be dangerous.

 

Products we recommend

Find LiPo battery packs here: http://morfars.com/collections/batteries (select LiPo at the top of the page)

Highly recommended LiPo charger: Charger L3

We always recommend using a LiPo Safe Bag when charging LiPo.

If the plugs don't fit, you can find new plugs and adapters here.