Taking the Lipo plunge, need advice
 

Up to this point I have been running NI-MH, but now that I have went with a 1/8 buggy I would like to loose some weight. The 14 cells I am running in it right now weigh it down terribly.

So below is a list of what I was thinking about going with and I would like any input on any of the products... especially the lipo packs. Any and all help is greatly appreciated.

Elite 4800mah 4s lipos from cheapbatterypacks.com (25c constant, 35c burst)
MRC 989 charger
Astro Flight Blinky balancer

I will be running the lipos in my 1/8 buggy which I have a Mtroniks Truck ESC and a Feigao 8XL motor. Also, if anyone has lipos or chargers that would be better for around the same price, feel free to recommend them. Thanks again.

That sounds like a decent setup IF those cells are truly 25C constant. 4800mAh @ 25c is 120A constant. But, what voltage do the cells have at this load? If the voltage drops too much, it may kick the LVC in prematurely. That charger and balancer combo will be fine.

Well their website specifically says true 25c discharge. As far as voltage under load... no idea, is this a normal issue with Lipo cells? I have never heard anyone mention it.

I would buy a balancer that you can charge thru. Something like the hyperion lba balancer, or the great planes equinox (same thing). Charging thru the balancer will save your batteries should one cell go over 4.2v, the balancer will interupt the charge, thus saving the battery. I have the mrc 989 and it is a great charger, I am very happy with it. I also have a duratrax ice and a hyperion charger too, both good chargers, but the mrc will handle more cells and higher mah ratings. Cheapbatterypacks has always treated me very well and seem to be a honest seller. Their elite lipos seem to be a good deal, but testing will show their capabilities.

I run the MRC989 with the FlightPower balancer and find it to be a very easy and effective combo. As for Lipo packs...my recommendation is to go with FlightPower, ThunderPower, or the NeuEnergy packs. They might cost more but it is money well spent...not to mention there are a lot of promo codes for decent discounts at the major online vendors. If you are planning a large purchase, Mike may also cut you some slack...its worth asking.

I have also heard a lot of positive feedback on the hyperion chargers but don't really have any experience with them.