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View Full Version : My new zelos 36 twin!



kfxguy
02-23-2016, 09:19 PM
So I just got my zelos 36 in today. Thanks to Raphael! I didn't get to participate in the intial testing of these boats but I did end up with one. I wanted to give my first impressions and a thread for you guys to follow along as I get it tuned in stock to see what it will do. I'm very excited. I need to tell yo guys, this hull is nothing like any rtr hull out there. It is super stiff. I'm so impressed with this hull. It's the stiffest and most solid out the box hull I've had my hands on. I have a cheetah right next to it and the tunnel is stiffer on it than the cheetah with a thick carbon inlay. This thing does not feel cheap at all. The hatch is at least 6-8 layers. It barely flexes at all. Very impressive! Enough about the stiffness....this layout is very well thought out. One of my favorite things is the rudder. Nice quality piece and it looks like a real cat rudder. The push pull steering is not just for looks, it works nicely. Very nice detail. This is something you only see on high end builds. I can tell this boat has lots of potential straight out the box. Quality .187 flexes with Teflon liner for less maintenance. The lines of this hull are beautiful. No cheesy hatch hold down system here. 4 screw locks and a nice seal all the way around. Tape. Who needs tape? I'm gonna give her a paint job very soon and put decals on, so follow along but I've got to hit the lake with this thing this weekend. Got to! Here's some pics!



Next to a king cheetah.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/983066B6-A1CC-4DDE-A824-748A3B2A6E7A.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/983066B6-A1CC-4DDE-A824-748A3B2A6E7A.jpg.html)


Rudder. Sorry for the glare



http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/B5BE15FC-EB96-4164-A421-5FF3035D5188.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/B5BE15FC-EB96-4164-A421-5FF3035D5188.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/C0AE46AF-4F55-4C52-A7F2-0424D0E6BA17.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/C0AE46AF-4F55-4C52-A7F2-0424D0E6BA17.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/8FEEFA79-E297-4071-9245-8DEE5980FDCE.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/8FEEFA79-E297-4071-9245-8DEE5980FDCE.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/8FEEFA79-E297-4071-9245-8DEE5980FDCE.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/8FEEFA79-E297-4071-9245-8DEE5980FDCE.jpg.html)

Interior. I've got to change connectors and a few other little details and she's gonna be ready. I can't wait!!!


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/7ED70317-D7AB-46D2-9B25-1D52FCCF984F.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/7ED70317-D7AB-46D2-9B25-1D52FCCF984F.jpg.html)

zooma
02-23-2016, 10:52 PM
Seems like you're gunna need a bigger lake.

Rafael_Lopez
02-23-2016, 10:57 PM
Give her hell Travis. I'm sure shell laugh it up and ask for more.:rockon2:

Oh, I think I threw one of the prototype MR4000 receivers in there. The antenna is pretty long, but we've got over 1000' of range with it. Way farther than I'd like to go retrieve a flipped boat.:frusty:

kfxguy
02-23-2016, 11:46 PM
Give her hell Travis. I'm sure shell laugh it up and ask for more.:rockon2:

Oh, I think I threw one of the prototype MR4000 receivers in there. The antenna is pretty long, but we've got over 1000' of range with it. Way farther than I'd like to go retrieve a flipped boat.:frusty:


I was wondering what the heck reliever that is. I was gonna text you and ask if that thing has two throttle output and if it will work with my dx4s. Figured it's too late. I'm a night owl. Just got through removing the old motor mounts and epoxying the new ones in. Yea, I'm not wasting any time. I gotta see this thing run Saturday. I'll finish it up and have it ready tomorrow night, gotta put my connectors on and make an adapter to run 6s. Hope you don't mind but I'm changing the cooling hose to some snazzy black colored hoses. I can't wait to see this thing run!

Rafael_Lopez
02-24-2016, 12:21 AM
RX will work with your radio. It's a 4 channel. Way to go, can't wait to hear your thoughts after you run it. Nope, don't mind you changing out the cooling lines.

srislash
02-24-2016, 01:16 AM
Very nice looking hull there. Nice rudder assembly too. That look like a good scale setup Travis?

kfxguy
02-24-2016, 01:34 AM
Very nice looking hull there. Nice rudder assembly too. That look like a good scale setup Travis?

Very nice Shawn. The rudder is short just like a real cat. Notice no cooling lines outside the boat. They are in the rear steps. I'm very impressed with the layup. I don't know how Raphael convinced the higher ups to spend the extra dough on such a nice layup, but I'm glad he did. I can't lie, I had intentions on doing an inlay in it because I had to remove the motor mounts and drives anyway to put them where the production model has them.....but there is no need for an inlay at all. Less work for me to get her on the water!

pistol18
02-24-2016, 01:12 PM
I'm looking forward to seeing this..... :beerchug:

Darin Jordan
02-24-2016, 01:28 PM
That boat looks familiar... ;)

Rafael_Lopez
02-24-2016, 01:34 PM
What gave it away Darin? The tape with the On-Off on the tray?:roflol:

Darin Jordan
02-24-2016, 01:45 PM
What gave it away Darin? The tape with the On-Off on the tray?:roflol:

Well... that and the two different shades of blue on the ESCS. Because I had modded the original ones that came in that boat, I had to put in a couple that I had here from other projects that still had the factory wiring on them.

Travis, make sure you verify/set the timing on both those ESCs before you get started. I suspect one may be at 7 and the other at 15... or whatever the original factory settings were for the Voracity.

kfxguy
02-24-2016, 01:56 PM
Well... that and the two different shades of blue on the ESCS. Because I had modded the original ones that came in that boat, I had to put in a couple that I had here from other projects that still had the factory wiring on them.

Travis, make sure you verify/set the timing on both those ESCs before you get started. I suspect one may be at 7 and the other at 15... or whatever the original factory settings were for the Voracity.


Will do. Should be able to run them at 15 I suspect. I may swap one out so they match lol. I have a couple spares myself.

kfxguy
02-24-2016, 01:58 PM
So......what color you guys think this thing should get painted? It deserves a nice paint job for sure. I have my favorite green, a badass house of kolor orange and possibly a pearl white and I also have a pearl blue similar to the voracity. The zelos decals are all black so any color will match well.

Darin Jordan
02-24-2016, 02:06 PM
So......what color you guys think this thing should get painted? It deserves a nice paint job for sure. I have my favorite green, a badass house of kolor orange and possibly a pearl white and I also have a pearl blue similar to the voracity. The zelos decals are all black so any color will match well.

I have ALWAYS wanted to do a hull in a nice bright 70's Green with TONS of huge metal flake!

That'd be my choice! :)

Rafael_Lopez
02-24-2016, 02:09 PM
Should be able to run them at 15 I suspect. Yes, Josh Cyrus has been running his at 15* of timing. He reports speeds of 70-71 mph with no mods other than sharpened and balanced props.

kfxguy
02-24-2016, 02:17 PM
I have ALWAYS wanted to do a hull in a nice bright 70's Green with TONS of huge metal flake!

That'd be my choice! :)

Well I'm not much of a fan of metal flake but I have a fluorescent green and this pearl lime and this orange



http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/3F771253-0500-4E72-A965-0AC75893EC12.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/3F771253-0500-4E72-A965-0AC75893EC12.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/6632514E-4EDC-4F13-8D64-71E809C7CD4C.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/6632514E-4EDC-4F13-8D64-71E809C7CD4C.jpg.html)

Darin Jordan
02-24-2016, 02:18 PM
I have ALWAYS wanted to do a hull in a nice bright 70's Green with TONS of huge metal flake!

That'd be my choice! :)

Something like this! :bounce:

141124


I also think it would be FUN to build a Zelos hull with TWIN Stiletto or similar OUTBOARDS on it. :thumbup1:

Rafael_Lopez
02-24-2016, 02:26 PM
Something like this! :bounce:

141124


I also think it would be FUN to build a Zelos hull with TWIN Stiletto or similar OUTBOARDS on it. :thumbup1:http://i961.photobucket.com/albums/ae92/rlopez8/3021307-inline-fb-likebutton-printpackaging_zpsomlgaaae.jpg~original (http://s961.photobucket.com/user/rlopez8/media/3021307-inline-fb-likebutton-printpackaging_zpsomlgaaae.jpg.html)

kfxguy
02-24-2016, 02:44 PM
Well that don't look too bad!

Beaux
02-24-2016, 04:58 PM
this is gonna be good!!!

kfxguy
02-24-2016, 05:07 PM
this is gonna be good!!!

Heck yea this is gonna be good. I'm running it at least once before paint. There no way I can wait much longer to run it. After seeing what she will do with stock props, I've got a couple different prop sets to try that I know will pick it up.

Mxkid261
02-24-2016, 06:14 PM
Green :biggrin:

kfxguy
02-24-2016, 11:03 PM
So i finished it up tonight. I mounted the drives back on and sealed them with a little bit of hondabond. Cut the flexes and soldered the ends. Changed out the esc's to two new matching ones. Reran the cooling lines using black hose (just a personal preference thing because they blend in better). Bench tested and calibrated esc's. Everything good. I do have to make a series connector so I can run it on 6s but I'll do that tomorrow night. Check it


Btw, I'm waiting on a y harness for the receiver plugs that I ordered yesterday. I'd go pick one up from the local hobby shop or make one but I don't have time or feel like it lol.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/EFD31CEF-8501-4D8F-90E2-1097FF363134.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/EFD31CEF-8501-4D8F-90E2-1097FF363134.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/09FFE5AF-12A1-41CE-9973-0CD032DCC811.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/09FFE5AF-12A1-41CE-9973-0CD032DCC811.jpg.html)

Yellow
02-25-2016, 07:15 AM
That looks great! I can't wait to see it run this weekend.

pistol18
02-25-2016, 10:42 AM
That pearl lime would look great with the black graphics

kfxguy
02-25-2016, 11:25 AM
That pearl lime would look great with the black graphics

I know but I'm trying not to have all my boats green even tho I love the color lol! I did sell the green mono so I don't have a full green boat anymore. Just the hatch of my shocker.

Beaux
02-25-2016, 03:51 PM
that's a cool place for the water pickup. I like the black hose too.

kfxguy
02-25-2016, 06:04 PM
Here's a picture with a little more light.


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/65297746-26E4-4051-B5E2-847851E1D313.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/65297746-26E4-4051-B5E2-847851E1D313.jpg.html)

Brushless55
02-26-2016, 09:24 AM
That's looking good Travis ! :thumbup:

Beaux
02-26-2016, 10:29 AM
Have you thought about a bad a$$ blue, really bright?

kfxguy
02-28-2016, 12:20 AM
I went ran it as promised. Had some issues that were of my own fault. First thing is the motors rotated in their mounts and twisted downwards and binded against the Teflon liners. Well I thought I tightened them enough but after talking to Raphael I found they must be pretty tight and not just snug. (He also prompted me to check esc calibration....glad I checked it again) That ended my trip quickly because I didn't have an Allen that would get to it good enough. Lesson learned lol. Next, I calibrated the throttles the other night. Seemed to go well but I didn't check for full throttle (not that I think about it I'm pretty sure I did) on both esc's. Under full throttle the light should lite constant green. One wasn't doing it and that same one wasn't starting at the same time as the other. After messing with it for half an hour, trying to calibrate it, I threw the towel in and threw another one in and it calibrated no problem. It even sounded totally different. The motors are now in sync and the right side motor now sings full song like the left one.

I had to deliver another boat today to a customer and he drove down so we could maiden it so I felt like I would have been rude had I concentrated on my stuff more than his. Then after he left (we bs-ed for a while) it was almost dark. I'll hit the lake again tomorrow. I have a feeling this trip will be much better! I can't wait!

kfxguy
02-28-2016, 02:19 AM
Ok. I've been thinking about why that esc could have gone wonky. I remember now that I plugged in the wrong program box to that esc first. My son has a program box that he messed up a while back plugging it into a fried car esc. It somehow made its way into my box. I grabbed it and plugged it in. When I noticed it was acting funny (the program box) I unplugged it and grabbed the correct box. It went through the motions like normal but evidently it threw something off (I'm guessing) to where the throttle calibration no longer works. I've used a few of these esc's (and the black Seaking version) and haven't had an issue. This little snafu won't change my mind about them that they are a excellent little unit.

petej
02-28-2016, 11:00 PM
Do you have a picture of the bottom of the hull, with the water pickups?

Rafael_Lopez
02-28-2016, 11:02 PM
No, I'll snap one tomorrow and post it in this thread.

petej
02-28-2016, 11:27 PM
The specs. say, 6S rated ESC's, motors (6-pole), but can those 2000kv motors really sustain WOT runs, especially with stock 1.4x1.65 props?

Rafael_Lopez
02-28-2016, 11:45 PM
I ran for over 4 minutes, non stop before bringing in to check temps. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7RNM8sjKtk

The motors have been working just fine, but you have to maintain them. I recommend oiling them after every outing, along with removing, drying, and cleaning the drive cables. We have been running these motors in the 29-inch cats for over a year now on 6s. We find that failure is attributed to lack or motor bearing maintenance. We seem to forget that even though BL motors are "maintenance free" the bearings are not and they need to be periodically maintained and oiled, especially because we are using them where they can get wet.

The issues Travis had are neither related to the ESC or the motor. The boat I sent him was returned to me by Darin Jordan after sending him a production boat. It sounds like the ESC was operating the motor incorrectly, making it sound like there was something wrong with it. Darin didn't report any of these issues to me and it sounds like the defective program card corrupted the ESC's firmware.

petej
02-29-2016, 12:10 AM
Rafel, Your quick responses to our questions and support is great. I pre-ordered my Zelos 36 several weeks ago and can't wait to get her.

While I do dry and grease my drive-lines after each outing, I am not familiar with how to lube the motor bearings. How do you lubricate the motor bearings?

Rafael_Lopez
02-29-2016, 01:26 AM
Pete, I will make a short video this coming week and post it in this thread. It's easier to explain it visually.

As for the support, that's what I'm here for . :)

kfxguy
02-29-2016, 02:38 AM
I ran for over 4 minutes, non stop before bringing in to check temps. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7RNM8sjKtk

The motors have been working just fine, but you have to maintain them. I recommend oiling them after every outing, along with removing, drying, and cleaning the drive cables. We have been running these motors in the 29-inch cats for over a year now on 6s. We find that failure is attributed to lack or motor bearing maintenance. We seem to forget that even though BL motors are "maintenance free" the bearings are not and they need to be periodically maintained and oiled, especially because we are using them where they can get wet.

The issues Travis had are neither related to the ESC or the motor. The boat I sent him was returned to me by Darin Jordan after sending him a production boat. It sounds like the ESC was operating the motor incorrectly, making it sound like there was something wrong with it. Darin didn't report any of these issues to me and it sounds like the defective program card corrupted the ESC's firmware.


After swapping that one esc its fine. I ran it today but the wind was really kicking and that water was extremely rough. I couldn't get on it hard but it was DEFINITELY an improvement from yesterday. I packed up and called it a day. I did end up removing the tray that everything mounts to (really nice feature of this boat) and put the production version one in as the one that was in it was 3D printed.

I'm leaving the boat stock for a while (that's a surprise lol) because I want to see how far I can push it. I really don't think there's anything to worry about running it on 6s. I've seen how these motors are made and the rotor is a nicely made piece and the stator also looks quality. Of course we all know the esc's are stout too.

kfxguy
02-29-2016, 08:12 AM
Do you have a picture of the bottom of the hull, with the water pickups?


The sharpest and squarest sponsons I've seen yet.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/6A9F520A-BAF9-4110-B9D7-DEE4D7BB1C54.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/6A9F520A-BAF9-4110-B9D7-DEE4D7BB1C54.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/F1DF7963-5F4D-4106-AC7A-8C3969F31827.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/F1DF7963-5F4D-4106-AC7A-8C3969F31827.jpg.html)

petej
02-29-2016, 10:01 AM
Good place for water pickups. Thanks.

Beaux
03-02-2016, 08:36 PM
Hey bud how's it goin? how's the paint job comin? What size motors did that zelos come with, just curios? thanks.

kfxguy
03-03-2016, 10:41 AM
Hey bud how's it goin? how's the paint job comin? What size motors did that zelos come with, just curios? thanks.

I tried to run it Sunday but the wind and water was way too rough so I flipped it within a few seconds so I packed up and went home. I'll try again Saturday

Rafael_Lopez
03-03-2016, 12:31 PM
What size motors did that zelos come with, just curios? thanks.
His boat has 2, 36x62mm, 2000kv, 6 pole motors, same as the production boats. Same motors that we've been using for over a year now, in the 29" cats.

Beaux
03-03-2016, 01:44 PM
thank you the 29 inch cats like blackjack and ms gieco?

Rafael_Lopez
03-03-2016, 03:15 PM
Yes sir! Same motor and the Miss GEICO 29 and Blackjack 29. It has proven to be a work horse, as long as the front bearing is maintained; oiled as regularly as the flex cables are greased.

arrover
03-03-2016, 03:25 PM
I normally regrease the flex after every 1-2 battery packs. At least after every time I run the boat. The bearings really require that much maintenance?

Rafael_Lopez
03-03-2016, 03:43 PM
When talking about 2000kv motors on 6s, yes. For our lower KV motors in the Impulse, Voracity and Zelos 48, I'd say you should maintain them after/before every outing. I pull my flex shaft/s after I'm done using my boat for the day, even if I'll be back out tomorrow. Now I'm forced to grease the shaft when I reinstall it and at the same time I can put a drop of oil or two on the front motor bearing.

kfxguy
03-03-2016, 03:51 PM
Good advice. I'll be sure to do mine.

arrover
03-03-2016, 04:05 PM
Ok. Thanks for the advice. I guess it's not really that bad since the motors don't need to be removed. Is there any particular oil/oiler setup that has worked well for you?

Beaux
03-03-2016, 04:23 PM
sounds like a good motor , thanks Rafael.

Keagan-Z06
03-03-2016, 08:21 PM
I am quite Jealous! Zelos seems to be the big boy the block!

Mxkid261
03-03-2016, 11:08 PM
I use one of these filled with some 3 in 1 multi purpose oil works good

http://www.avidrc.com/product/5/accessories/507/Oiler-Pen-Empty-AV-OIL-PEN-accessories.html

arrover
03-04-2016, 09:01 AM
Thanks for the recommendation MXkid!

Mxkid261
03-04-2016, 09:29 AM
Thanks for the recommendation MXkid!

Sure thing! I had that for my r/c trucks and when I got into boats realized it worked perfect for motor bearings :wink:

Yellow
03-05-2016, 04:36 PM
Looks like expected due date has been pushed back to "late" March. It was "mid" March. Bummer...
More time to prep for its arrival.

Beaux
03-05-2016, 04:51 PM
What did you order?

Yellow
03-05-2016, 05:53 PM
Zelos Twin. The Pro boat web site was updated.

Beaux
03-05-2016, 06:03 PM
Cool boat. Rafael Lopez is the man if you have any questions.

Rafael_Lopez
03-05-2016, 06:57 PM
Looks like expected due date has been pushed back to "late" March. It was "mid" March. Bummer...
More time to prep for its arrival.

Website is wrong. They'll ship in 1.5 weeks at the latest.

Yellow
03-06-2016, 12:05 AM
Whoa... COOL!

kfxguy
03-06-2016, 06:30 PM
Ok guys I got some good stuff for you. I was able to go run this thing today and I'm glad I did. It was actually rougher than I like to run boats this fast in but forged ahead anyway. On 4s it handled like a champ. I was looking for 50ish but I haven't done any adjustments so I'll take the 42.7mph it did plus it handled unbelievably well. I think put a set of not fully charged 3s packs just to see what it will do on 6s. It did 70.7mph without a problem. In this sort of wind and chop I expected it to be unrunnable but I was proved wrong. Here's 4s


http://youtu.be/nkLA3T0T4Yw

kfxguy
03-06-2016, 06:32 PM
Here's the 6s run. I didn't try turning it because I felt it was a little rough for that.


This boat is all stock down to the props. The only thing I did was spend about 10 minutes lightly sharpening them.


http://youtu.be/Df58IleYh10

Darin Jordan
03-07-2016, 09:32 AM
The stock props on this boat are actually quite adequate for the power systems, as Travis shows here. I think on 4S, you'd definitely need something with more pitch, but with the lower torque motors, 6S is going to be your friend with the smaller props. Your speed is coming from RPM, not from having an abundance of "power".

I fully prepped a set of stock Zelos props, as well as a set of X442s, which is what the stock props are based on, for us to try at the 2-Lap coming up. The X442s will allow some "bending" to take place, plus I backcut these and detongued them about 0.100, so they are basically backcut M442s now. Should be interesting to see how they perform.

141400

141401

141399

kfxguy
03-07-2016, 09:54 AM
I tried a pair of 1615's on it and it easily went 50 at half throttle or less but if I tried to push it, it flipped over from the bow lift (lack of transom lift for the hardheaded old school guys lol) if I tried to get on it. I could have angled the props down a little but I don't want to change anything just yet. I think with fully charged packs and calmer water I can get 73+ out of it still being stock. I want to see how fast I can go with it stock.

Darin Jordan
03-07-2016, 10:06 AM
I tried a pair of 1615's on it...

Are those the 10 or the 17-degree Rake?

kfxguy
03-07-2016, 10:12 AM
Are those the 10 or the 17-degree Rake?

17 degree. If you have an extra regular rotation 1715 you could spare, let me know. I have some reverse ones but no regular.

Rafael_Lopez
03-07-2016, 10:14 AM
Good Job Trav. Your time and effort is appreciated. :buttrock:

kfxguy
03-07-2016, 10:28 AM
Good Job Trav. Your time and effort is appreciated. :buttrock:

No, thank you sir! :bowdown::bowdown:

kfxguy
03-07-2016, 10:30 AM
O btw, good news. When daylight savings hits, I'll be able to hit the lake after work a few times a week and in the evening the water is usually calm.

Mxkid261
03-07-2016, 12:18 PM
Looks beautiful there, we're patiently waiting for the ice to melt lol 50s all week should help

Rafael_Lopez
03-07-2016, 12:23 PM
That looks like some thick water too. I wouldn't be surprised if you saw higher speeds in "cleaner" water being that there would be less drag on everything. I've seen 1-3 MPH difference between the 2 places I run. One is nice and clean and the other you can nearly spoon the water out. Doesn't help that the lake is nearly evaporated away now :(

kfxguy
03-07-2016, 01:21 PM
Man the weather has been awesome. I don't think we had I've 20 cold days here this winter.

Mxkid261
03-07-2016, 02:45 PM
Ya a week ago sunday it was 55 here and that following Tuesday it snowed 6" lol good ol Wisconsin

Brushless55
03-07-2016, 09:42 PM
The stock props on this boat are actually quite adequate for the power systems, as Travis shows here. I think on 4S, you'd definitely need something with more pitch, but with the lower torque motors, 6S is going to be your friend with the smaller props. Your speed is coming from RPM, not from having an abundance of "power".

I fully prepped a set of stock Zelos props, as well as a set of X442s, which is what the stock props are based on, for us to try at the 2-Lap coming up. The X442s will allow some "bending" to take place, plus I backcut these and detongued them about 0.100, so they are basically backcut M442s now. Should be interesting to see how they perform.

141400

141401

141399

Great info Darin !

I need to stop reading this thread and on facebook cuz I'm getting the need to buy this boat ! :lol:

kfxguy
03-07-2016, 10:36 PM
Great info Darin !

I need to stop reading this thread and on facebook cuz I'm getting the need to buy this boat ! :lol:


Yes you need to! This is the best quality rtr boat I've seen so far. I haven't seen any other rtr boats hit 70 with ease like this boat.....at at this price point....nothing compares. This is no chea rtr layup either. Just wait till a few guys get theirs in.....

Ivebeen thinking about this thing all day after running it yesterday. I feel confident with a prop swap, 80 is doable with stock electronics. If you wanna go faster, it won't take much at all. I had a pair of 1715's but I'm not sure where my regular rotation one went to. I've looked all over and can't find one, so I text Chris (Dasboata) today and luckily he had one. So it's on this weekend! I think it's gonna like the 1715's. We shall see.


What I have to try now in props are three different things. Actually have four different sets but I think one set may be too aggressive. I have

1615's
1715's
And the new 1814's all in 17 rake. I also have some 1815's but Those are the ones I think will be too much

Mxkid261
03-08-2016, 08:44 AM
Little off topic but what kind of balancer do you use to do your props? Thanks

Darin Jordan
03-08-2016, 09:55 AM
Little off topic but what kind of balancer do you use to do your props? Thanks

Mine doesn't appear to be made any longer, but it's not dissimilar to this one:

http://www.offshoreelectrics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ose-80310

141427

kfxguy
03-08-2016, 10:01 AM
I use the top flight. I also have an integy one and it's not as accurate as the top flight.

Rafael_Lopez
03-08-2016, 12:12 PM
I have a Dubro balancer and also have an Aquacraft one I bought years ago. I use either, depending which one it at my reach.

Brushless55
03-08-2016, 01:50 PM
Yes you need to! This is the best quality rtr boat I've seen so far. I haven't seen any other rtr boats hit 70 with ease like this boat.....at at this price point....nothing compares. This is no chea rtr layup either. Just wait till a few guys get theirs in.....

Ivebeen thinking about this thing all day after running it yesterday. I feel confident with a prop swap, 80 is doable with stock electronics. If you wanna go faster, it won't take much at all. I had a pair of 1715's but I'm not sure where my regular rotation one went to. I've looked all over and can't find one, so I text Chris (Dasboata) today and luckily he had one. So it's on this weekend! I think it's gonna like the 1715's. We shall see.


What I have to try now in props are three different things. Actually have four different sets but I think one set may be too aggressive. I have

1615's
1715's e
And the new 1814's all in 17 rake. I also have some 1815's but Those are the ones I think will be too much

Sounds great Travis !

I just ordered up the Mach 25 FPV racer yesterday... :rockon2:
I want to try my hand at FPV racing...

soon as I sell a few other boats off, I really think I will order this one for sure !

kfxguy
03-08-2016, 02:51 PM
Sounds great Travis !

I just ordered up the Mach 25 FPV racer yesterday... :rockon2:
I want to try my hand at FPV racing...

soon as I sell a few other boats off, I really think I will order this one for sure !

One day I'll get into fpv, no time right now. Sounds cool tho!

Mxkid261
03-08-2016, 04:47 PM
Thanks for the info Darin Rafael and Travis

Brushless55
03-09-2016, 08:23 PM
One day I'll get into fpv, no time right now. Sounds cool tho!

cannot wait to see what speeds you get out of this bugger !

Rafael_Lopez
03-09-2016, 09:33 PM
Hmmmm.....
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e21/jAndrew/Mobile%20Uploads/C5C690ED-F5B3-482F-A0E5-A145A79B5D3B_zpss1aktwlb.jpg (http://s36.photobucket.com/user/jAndrew/media/Mobile%20Uploads/C5C690ED-F5B3-482F-A0E5-A145A79B5D3B_zpss1aktwlb.jpg.html)

shua
03-09-2016, 09:46 PM
Hmmmm.....
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e21/jAndrew/Mobile%20Uploads/C5C690ED-F5B3-482F-A0E5-A145A79B5D3B_zpss1aktwlb.jpg (http://s36.photobucket.com/user/jAndrew/media/Mobile%20Uploads/C5C690ED-F5B3-482F-A0E5-A145A79B5D3B_zpss1aktwlb.jpg.html)
Boom!

Yellow
03-09-2016, 10:16 PM
That's a beautiful sight! When are they shipping?

Will they be inspected before shipping to the customers?

Yellow
03-09-2016, 10:16 PM
wow!

Rafael_Lopez
03-09-2016, 10:30 PM
Getting through QC this week. Will start shipping next week.

We check the quality and function of a specific amount of boats, based on the amount received. Unfortunately it's impossible to check every single boat in the container.

As always, if anything is missed, our wonderful and helpful Product Support Department will take care of it.

Yellow
03-09-2016, 11:00 PM
Awesome! Can't wait.:banana:

kfxguy
03-09-2016, 11:01 PM
When will spare parts be available?

kfxguy
03-13-2016, 06:49 PM
Charging batts, almost ready to head to the lake......

kfxguy
03-14-2016, 07:46 AM
Made some runs. Still was too rough. We've had some really bad weather other the past few days so I'm not surprised. It's still went 70.1mph tho. Here's some video still stock



http://youtu.be/oX83VKmf6WQ

kfxguy
03-14-2016, 07:50 AM
And another. Just barely clipped the tree, you can hear it if you listen. Was trying to get a closer video of it....too close lol. Please excuse the expletive when I flip it lol



http://youtu.be/LVFTGTEEsEM

kfxguy
03-14-2016, 08:34 AM
I would like to add. I went through two sets of packs yesterday. This is a very fun boat to drive. The two times I did flip it, I knew better but I went fast into the wind anyway. The wind was very strong yesterday and I'm not surprised it flipped and didn't learn my lesson the first time. Just couldn't help it, the boat looked so planted that I felt like it was going to stay put. Well at 70+ it's probably packing a lot of air so the inevitable will happen. I suppose in the 50-60mph range its Easly going to handle rough conditions. I'm impressed with how smooth and flat this hull handles. I've taken a liking with this hull. I'm really anxious to do a high end build on one. I think this thing is capable of some serious speeds with minor upgrades. Hers some on the water pics


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/09CEB0B0-B99D-4CDF-BD81-4B799C5923F7.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/09CEB0B0-B99D-4CDF-BD81-4B799C5923F7.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/2CECF21B-C711-4270-913C-3EE9BA0D9FB9.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/2CECF21B-C711-4270-913C-3EE9BA0D9FB9.jpg.html)

Mxkid261
03-14-2016, 09:13 AM
Looks awesome too I like this hull design

kfxguy
03-14-2016, 09:36 AM
Looks awesome too I like this hull design


Man pics do no justice. Wait till you drive one.

Beaux
03-14-2016, 09:46 AM
what do you think about an air dam?

Rafael_Lopez
03-14-2016, 12:59 PM
Trav, I'm waiting to see it painted! lol

Great video. told you she could handle the chop. The wind, running in to it, now that another story:unsure:

Darin Jordan
03-14-2016, 01:22 PM
It's going to be interesting to see how these run with the bigger motors I installed in mine. Rafael, haven't you tried yours with the IM31 motors already??

I mean, seriously... 70mph AND flips and it's still in one piece? Haven't broken one yet, so we haven't gone fast enough, right?

Rafael_Lopez
03-14-2016, 01:36 PM
Darin, No I've been too busy to try the impulse motors in mine. I have them, just haven't put them in there yet.

You're right, we haven't broken a boat yet, even cracked the hull, so we need to push them harder **those of us that didn't pay for them, unless you don't care if you crack one you paid for**

kfxguy
03-14-2016, 03:45 PM
Trav, I'm waiting to see it painted! lol

Great video. told you she could handle the chop. The wind, running in to it, now that another story:unsure:

Well I thought I'd have it painted before my surgery but I don't think that's going to happen. I leave in 10 days and I'm having a bit of fun with it right now. I want to take it to the next level on the next outing by trying different props. I forgot them yesterday.

pistol18
03-14-2016, 08:01 PM
I leave in 10 days and I'm having a bit of fun with it right now.
Trav, I'd be happy to babysit the zelos for you if you need me too!:beerchug:

Thanks for all the info and videos as usual, this looks to be a great boat and the running attitude looks awesome.
I've been going back and forth between the 36 and 48 but the 36 might just make more sense all around.

kfxguy
03-14-2016, 09:08 PM
what do you think about an air dam?

I dunno. May be a good idea buddy! I may try that out. Running into the wind was just an error on my part as it looked quite planted....all it takes is that one little gust!

kfxguy
03-14-2016, 09:13 PM
Trav, I'd be happy to babysit the zelos for you if you need me too!:beerchug:

Thanks for all the info and videos as usual, this looks to be a great boat and the running attitude looks awesome.
I've been going back and forth between the 36 and 48 but the 36 might just make more sense all around.

I bet you would! I'll have some ore info for you guys in the next few days. It's getting dark much later now so I can go to the lake after work. I've got three props left to finish up and I'll be ready to hit the water again.

Mxkid261
03-14-2016, 09:59 PM
What are you thinking this will do with more prop, 80?

kfxguy
03-15-2016, 12:28 PM
What are you thinking this will do with more prop, 80?

O I think it has 80 in it with the stock electronics and a prop change. I've seen 10+mph gains with abc props over similar octura.

Brushless55
03-15-2016, 09:10 PM
O I think it has 80 in it with the stock electronics and a prop change. I've seen 10+mph gains with abc props over similar octura.

Travis, that would be so cool if you can get that out of this boat !

kfxguy
03-16-2016, 07:56 AM
Travis, that would be so cool if you can get that out of this boat !

We are gonna see. I don't mind pushing the stock stuff to see what it can handle. I've got it almost ready for tomorrow to run it again. I need one more stock baseline (I think it's got a little more in it stock) before I start changing props. I can't make it to the lake today but I will tomorrow. Stay tuned.

Brushless55
03-16-2016, 05:07 PM
We are gonna see. I don't mind pushing the stock stuff to see what it can handle. I've got it almost ready for tomorrow to run it again. I need one more stock baseline (I think it's got a little more in it stock) before I start changing props. I can't make it to the lake today but I will tomorrow. Stay tuned.

Right on man ! :rockon2:
text my phone with the video when you get it done..

kfxguy
03-16-2016, 07:05 PM
Not sure if Raphael posted this yet but it's worth a watch



http://youtu.be/yxKhCWo6NVY

Rafael_Lopez
03-16-2016, 07:21 PM
I posted that on the other threads, I think.

Thanks for posting it.

kfxguy
03-16-2016, 07:56 PM
I posted that on the other threads, I think.

Thanks for posting it.


I was hoping you didn't mind. Meant to text you but figured you'd be glad. Trying to make sure everyone sees it as it has much needed info.

Mercer2
03-17-2016, 10:52 PM
Here is mine I just received it today, and it is a perfect match for my remote dx4r
141630

Rafael_Lopez
03-17-2016, 11:10 PM
Here is mine I just received it today, and it is a perfect match for my remote dx4r
141630

Rad! That matches really well.

Keagan-Z06
03-18-2016, 09:01 AM
Here is mine I just received it today, and it is a perfect match for my remote dx4r
141630

That looks great man, I can't wait to get mine. Rafael I hope another boat doesn't come out anytime soon. I haven't even gotten a decent run on my 1 month old Voracity and these guys talking about changing props and what not.:crying:

mariner
03-25-2016, 02:47 AM
Nice videos!
I'm planning to buy this boat but I'm a little afraid of flipping the boat in every run, I have miss geico and it always flips when the water is a little rough or driving against wind. I drive on the sea and need to use motor boat for fetching...

Has anyone tried to install a servo controlled front spoiler to rc boat ? :confused:

Mxkid261
03-25-2016, 08:30 AM
Nice videos!
I'm planning to buy this boat but I'm a little afraid of flipping the boat in every run, I have miss geico and it always flips when the water is a little rough or driving against wind. I drive on the sea and need to use motor boat for fetching...

Has anyone tried to install a servo controlled front spoiler to rc boat ? :confused:

It would probably be a lot more work than it is worth to have it servo controlled. I think most people that install an air dam just 3M tape it in a certain position and leave it there. I don't think you will have an issue with flipping as much as your geico does. The zelo's seems like it stays planted to the water quite well, I think Travis was running his around 70mph in like 20+ mph winds :wink:

Njpp21@aol.com
04-15-2018, 01:30 PM
I also have the same boat, I got it about a week ago. I’m curious about the water pick ups in the bottom. Are they good enough to cool the motors and esc’s sufficiently? I’m only asking because I’ve only had the boat for about a week and yesterday was the first time I ran it hard. It ran beautifully, but when I opened the hatch after the second run and second pair of batteries, I got a slight puff of smoke come out. Nothing was melted or extremely hot so I just let it cool down. There is water in the lines every time I open it up after running the boat. I can’t see if there is water coming out of the fittings on the side though. I’m running 2 Power Hobby Pro Lipo 3S 3 Cell 11.1v 5200mah 50c batteries with 2c charge rate 50c continuous and 100c burst. The other 2 batteries are Arrow RC Pro Lipo 3S 3 Cell 11.1v 5200mah 50c with a 3c charge rate 50c Continuous 100c burst. I run these batteries in pairs, not all 4 at once. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I’m curious because I have a pair of custom props on the way.

Tuono995
04-15-2018, 07:20 PM
I also have the same boat, I got it about a week ago. I’m curious about the water pick ups in the bottom. Are they good enough to cool the motors and esc’s sufficiently? I’m only asking because I’ve only had the boat for about a week and yesterday was the first time I ran it hard. It ran beautifully, but when I opened the hatch after the second run and second pair of batteries, I got a slight puff of smoke come out. Nothing was melted or extremely hot so I just let it cool down. There is water in the lines every time I open it up after running the boat. I can’t see if there is water coming out of the fittings on the side though. I’m running 2 Power Hobby Pro Lipo 3S 3 Cell 11.1v 5200mah 50c batteries with 2c charge rate 50c continuous and 100c burst. The other 2 batteries are Arrow RC Pro Lipo 3S 3 Cell 11.1v 5200mah 50c with a 3c charge rate 50c Continuous 100c burst. I run these batteries in pairs, not all 4 at once. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I’m curious because I have a pair of custom props on the way.

https://forums.offshoreelectrics.com/showthread.php?58566-Zelos-36-Cooling&p=708972&highlight=#post708972

fweasel
04-15-2018, 09:13 PM
but when I opened the hatch after the second run and second pair of batteries, I got a slight puff of smoke come out. Nothing was melted or extremely hot so I just let it cool down. I've had mystery smoke on occasion too, usually caused by bearing oil or corrosion-x burning off. What's weird is you said it was on your second run, so it likely wasn't something burning off in the motor. I've also had stock motor wire connectors get hot enough they melted the foam glued to the hatch and crated some white smoke, or a motor misalignment causing the flex cable to bind against the stuffing tube liner. My point being, if the smoke wasn't accompanied by the unmistakable smell of burnt electronics, Your electronics are probably fine. Check for proper alignment between your flex cables and motors.

Njpp21@aol.com
04-15-2018, 11:21 PM
Thank you so much for the information. Have you or anyone else had any cooling issues? Particularly not getting water through the system. For all I know it could be getting water but I can’t see any coming out of the exit fittings on the sides of the boat, however when I open the hatch after a run there seems to be residual water in the lines. Nothing feels super hot at all. Basically what I’m asking is, the water pickups in the bottom of the hull, (Zelos 36 Twin) do I leave them or add my own on the rear of the boat? Is anyone having issues with the stock pickups? I’ve only had the boat for a week and I don’t want to damage anything!!!!!

petej
04-16-2018, 01:54 AM
When first running a new boat or first time in the season, I run the boat mid-throttle while looking for the water ejecting from both sides of the boat before running WOT.
Zelos 36 water, cooling system works just fine. Hot battery wires or EC5 connectors can make contact with the hatch foam and the result is obvious when you bring the boat and see the melted/deformed hatch foam, but I think this normal, OK.
Trying to avoid over-heating batteries: 1). Use stock props or ensure prop pitch/size not too large. 2). Ensure flex shafts are well greased ever few runs. 3) Run boat in calm, smooth water. When boat is out of water cooling system is not working.

fweasel
04-16-2018, 09:07 PM
You can try popping the cooling hoses off the hull pick-up barbs and blow through them to verify there are no obstructions. Common culprits are kinked lines or metal flashing in the fittings. If you can blow through the lines with reasonable pressure, you're probably good. It's been recommended by the designer of the hull to file a teardrop shape into the bottom of the hull just in front of each water pick-up to help funnel in more water. It's also a good idea to chi/file out any paint that made its way into the opening of those water pick-ups. When the boat is out on the water, you won't see water coming out the sides until you're on plane and clipping along at a decent speed. You won't see a solid stream when your plowing around and idling.