[MetalMan]

I have built up 3 Lipo packs. Shorting is definately a hard thing to avoid, but as long as it is very quick, no damage will be done. Also, you have to make sure that the tabs stay as cool as possible, otherwise you can damage the seal, which would damage the pack. As long as there is a nickel strip welded to the positive tab, then you can use only regular solder. If there is no nickel strip on the positive side, then you have to get the aluminum solder and flux which is difficult to work with, shortens soldering iron tips' lives, and makes a lot of smoke. I can give more info. if it is desired.

crazyjr, there are lots of other good companies out there besides TP and Kokam. In fact, Kokam tends to almost severely overrate their cells (for some cells). I personally like Maxamps, and 2 of my packs are from them - one was built by them (but later modified by me), and the other I bought as loose cells. These were their older generation cells, though. Their newer cells are quite good, and will hold up to their ratings (at least the 2100mah does). If you email Maxamps, you can get loose cells for $13.50 for a 2100mah cell, which is a VERY good price for a 15C cell. I am very tempted to buy some, but I may need to buy a new controller soon.