I figured that I would start this thread as I have had quite a few questions recently about lipo repair.
Most lipos can be repaired, such as having a bad cell removed or physically repairing damage to the wires (main or balancer wires).
I can combine cells from different packs to make a higher voltage pack, but I will say that they may not stay in balance if the cells were not factory matched. If one cell is older or had more use (cycles) than another it may not hold the same capacity or voltage. Generally I find that cells from the higher quality packs (enerland cells) do not mind being mixed and matched.
If I am making a larger pack from 2 seperate packs I will individually charge the cells before assembly, and cycle the pack to make sure it works correctly.
For example: If you have a 4s packs and want a pair of 2s packs that would not be an issue. I can also make a 4s pack into a 2s2p pack, half the voltage but twice the capacity. Also I can take a 2s and 3s pack and make them into a 5s pack. These are both examples, but should cover most of the requests I receive.
Also, if you have a pack that has dropped below 3v per cell, and the cells
have not puffed, I can most likely get it to work again. I will not gaurantee this, but I have had good success so far.
IF THE CELLS ARE PUFFED THEY ARE GONE, DO NOT TRY TO CHARGE A PUFFED CELL! Sorry for yelling, but that is important.
I have also found that a pack with a dead cell (0v on that cell) that still reads voltage on the main wires may have other issues due to the dead cell still being connected to the reat of the pack. Leaving a dead cell in there does not seem to be good for the other cells, may even pull their voltage down. So if you have a problem pack, and want me to fix it,
quickly sending it to me is your best bet.
Also, I have never had a lipo catch fire, explode, or do anything other than puff. I have never over charged a lipo, which seems to be the method to make one explode. So don't do that either. Also do not try to "jump start" a pack by using a timed charger or other dc power source. Leave that to the pros (me) who are stupid enough to do it
If you plan to ship a lipo to me, wrap it up in a good amount of foam or bubble wrap and put it in a sturdy cardboard box. Make sure it is a tight fit so it does not rattle around during shipping. Lipos are not fond of dents and dings...
Hopefully this will answer most questions... If you have any questions please post here, as the info will help others. I will have a link to this thread in my signature. If you would like to send me a lipo for repair please PM me for address info. I do keep a decent stock of shrink, wire, and balance connectors, so repairs can usually be done in a few days.