Waterproof ESC

Patrick/Joe
How about a waterproof ESC? it sure is nice to be able to hose of the models after a run ala the XL5 and upcoming VXL waterproof.
Seems like the sidewinder would be a perfect candidate?

^ +1

I also REALLY would like a waterproof ESC from a GOOD company, those ESC's who are waterproof just totally sucks which are now on the market.

[lutach]

Castle uses conformal coating (I know there was some info on this issue here in the forum) which makes their ESCs kind of water proof.

Originally Posted by Byte

^ +1

I also REALLY would like a waterproof ESC from a GOOD company, those ESC's who are waterproof just totally sucks which are now on the market.

I dont know of any brushless ESC's that are waterproof - the VXL is waterresistant which is close but would prefer something with the programmabiliy of a Castle ESC.
I think the waterproof thing is going to be a much bigger deal and Traxxas is going to push this given their market position. There is an opportunity for an OEM to create a better aftermarket solution.

Originally Posted by lutach

Castle uses conformal coating (I know there was some info on this issue here in the forum) which makes their ESCs kind of water proof.

the issue is that even though they are starting to put some casing around the castle car/truck ESC"s they are too exposed to allow dirt/sand moisture to get in. Its really a pain to clean their ESC's after being on a wet track or just bashing in the mud/dirt.

[lutach]

Originally Posted by alangsam

the issue is that even though they are starting to put some casing around the castle car/truck ESC"s they are too exposed to allow dirt/sand moisture to get in. Its really a pain to clean their ESC's after being on a wet track or just bashing in the mud/dirt.

So what you guys are really asking for is a sealed ESC.

[BrianG]

And what about the motor? That would be just as important IMO, and it's gonna be tough to keep the water from messing up/rusting the bearings and shaft (although they could coat the shaft I suppose). There is potentially a lot of fine dirt suspended in ground water. Personally, if you want to run through water, get a boat, or stick with a cheaper brushed setup.

[TexasSP]

Originally Posted by BrianG

Personally, if you want to run through water, get a boat, or stick with a cheaper brushed setup.

This is why my trail truck stays brushed.

i think it can be done with the motors as well. look at the vxl 3500? you can seal with the bearings and seal the cover thats on it now. its only a matter of time and a little bit of innovation. you can buy sealed lipos, sealed brushed ESC's, waterresistent ESC's, i predict a waterproof VXL within a month.

[himalaya]

Originally Posted by lutach

So what you guys are really asking for is a sealed ESC.

Absolutely! ever try to look into a used MMM? you can plant corn in it.

If MMM has sealed case like the Hobbywing does, that's a final step closer to perfection.

[lincpimp]

Lrp sold waterproof ai speed controls for brushed motors...

I for one use a tupperware that locks shut and has a rubber seal. I tested it by locking it and placing a brick on it in a bucket of water for the weekend. Come monday it was bone dry. I got one that would fit under the body and hold the rec, lipo and esc. Just had to drill 2 holes in it, one for the servo plug, and another for the motor wires. Used hot glue to seal it from both sides. If you run a sealed can bushed motor (I like titan 23t) drill an 1/8 hole in the can by the brushes that faces straight down when the motor is in the truck. Lets the water drain out, and prolongs the like for the motor. Oiling the bushings with atf also helps.

has anybody tried to just open the case and use high temp silicon and then seal all of the openings? I realize that would void the warranty but wouldnt it work?

[Unsullied_Spy]

+1 to sealed ESCs. I can vouch for the MM's "Water Resistance" though, I've run my Rustler through plenty of snow, completely submerged it in water, and it gets splashed from puddles all the time and it keep on kicking.