What's your favorite ESC?

[Keagan-Z06]

I know this will be a mixed bag. Just wanna get a consensus of what you guys prefer? Me personally only have T180's V2&V3, Castle Hydra 240 and Seaking 180, not counting the stock Dynamites that comes with Proboats.

[srislash]

My fave is Castle, old ice's or new Phoenix Ice. The logging is so useful

[kfxguy]

Never really considered it. I don't even think I have a favorite. I don't really like any escs lol. They all have their faults. I do kinda like the castle xl2 I converted to water cooling. It's compact. Drives well. The programming is nice and the logging is nice. I wish they would make something like the one I did. It's epoxy coated too.


Mainstream escs, I like the seaking 180 old version. And the new ose raider. Just wish there was something similar with more amps.

[longballlumber]

Ones that don't blow up... :flashfire:

[Keagan-Z06]

I agree, it doesn't look like the mainstream guys are into anything over 180. Would be cool to get a seaking or Turnigy in 240/300

[Keagan-Z06]

Ones that don't blow up... :flashfire:

:laugh:

[Keagan-Z06]

My fave is Castle, old ice's or new Phoenix Ice. The logging is so useful

Thanks to you Castle is shaping up to be my favorite.

[RandyatBBY]

They all can go poof and let the magic smoke out.
This is my current fav......
149029

[Fluid]

Another vote for modified Castles. The past five years I have used mostly ICE200 aircraft controllers, adding a cap or three and some copper tubing, shrink wrap and good to go. The only Castles which have burned up were connected to bad motors, including SAW record holders.



.

[Keagan-Z06]

They all can go poof and let the magic smoke out.
This is my current fav......
149029

Goodness Grief! That looks good

[Keagan-Z06]

Another vote for modified Castles. The past five years I have used mostly ICE200 aircraft controllers, adding a cap or three and some copper tubing, shrink wrap and good to go.



.

srislash showed me an old thread of yours on how to do this. Good idea!

[photohoward1]

Schulze!


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[RandyatBBY]

Another vote for modified Castles. The past five years I have used mostly ICE200 aircraft controllers, adding a cap or three and some copper tubing, shrink wrap and good to go. The only Castles which have burned up were connected to bad motors, including SAW record holders.
.

What do you do use a stick radio? I am tired of Pisix kicking the bucket.

[RandyatBBY]

Schulze!


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I know whare one is under 45 feet of water. LOL

[longballlumber]

All joking aside, I have had great luck on all of my Castle stuff also. Some are the Hydra line, others are air controllers that have been converted to water cooling like fluid described. I should also note that I haven't built anything bigger than 6S, nor do I run SAW's

Later,
Ball

[Keagan-Z06]

All joking aside, I have had great luck on all of my Castle stuff also. Some are the Hydra line, others are air controllers that have been converted to water cooling like fluid described. I should also note that I haven't built anything bigger than 6S, nor do I run SAW's

Later,
Ball

Nice, I'm with you as well, never passed 6S before. Kinda like it that way for now.

[Tamelesstgr]

^^^Famous last words

I only have Turnigy 180's at this point, but I use an Eagletree data logger. Would prefer an ESC with data logging in it eventually. Might try a swordfish when I get around to building my outrigger.

[jim82]

149030

[Keagan-Z06]

Is that a raider?

[Fluid]

What do you do use a stick radio? I am tired of Pisix kicking the bucket.I use a Spektrum DX4R PRO, works great. Fellow club members use DX3 transmitters with their aircraft Castles too.


.

[jim82]

Is that a raider?

Same yes

[Lone-Wolf]

Right now my favorite is MGM, I have a set of the big ones that Randy posted above (40063's) and they are moving my big 73" cat effortlessly. The smaller but still large 25063's work great in my 54" cat. I really like MGM's protection circuitry, they seem to know when you are doing something you shouldn't be which of course never happens to me ;-) Programming is straightforward with a wealth of options and there's endless other options from telemetry to any sensor you would want. Of course all this comes at a price and of course that is the downside but usually you would only want to install a controller like this in a higher end boat anyways where you won't be scrimping. MGM has top service too with fair repair pricing and shipping...fast too! I would like to say my favorite is an old school Schulze like the 40.160 but I don't have one...yet, working on it so until then it's MGM for me. Oh, runner up would be the affordable Flier 400 amp of course, I'm sure the lower amp models are good too, I'm having really good luck with mine, cheap, run cool and are putting out lots of power...actually if these things hang on a few more months they just may become my favorite!

[jim82]

I am giving my thoughts off of price. I mean of course MGM controllers are great but I would hope so at the price.

[golfito]

149031
It's the only one I've used ...
Someone change the new mamba monster 2 ?, I have a trip on them and possibly modify them.

[golfito]

MGM I can only dream it ...:babear:

[Lone-Wolf]

As far as 6S and under I like the older version T-180.

[jim82]

The v-2 180 is a pretty damn good controller I still have a few.

[golfito]

149032

[jim82]

149033

[golfito]

Hahaha, we bought similar. I have two as spare parts.

[kfxguy]

They all can go poof and let the magic smoke out.
This is my current fav......
149029


Yea well you better have a couple stacks of those bills about an inch thick to afford those things. Lol

[kfxguy]

The v-2 180 is a pretty damn good controller I still have a few.

Lemme know if you ever wanna let one go. I have an awesome billet heatsink I made for one. It's a shame not to use it.


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/20140719_145217.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/20140719_145217.jpg.html)

[StevenBryant]

My favourite esc at the moment is the Castle XL2, tuff as hell and nice and compacthttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170126/81493f72d0e9b35572b28d6aaaea8619.jpg


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[meangenesracing]

They all can go poof and let the magic smoke out.
This is my current fav......
149029
you should have put a stack of 100 dollar bills in place of the dollar bill lol

[Keagan-Z06]

Seems castle is getting the popular vote at this time with the old Turnigy a being a close second.

[kfxguy]

No body even mentioned swordfish lmao. They are going to be hurting when someone else releases something that can take the place of the sf300. I'm tired of being forced to use that esc. I don't hate it but I don't like it either.

[Keagan-Z06]

That is exactly what I thought as well. The SF thread went dormant and haven't seen anyone gotten back any feedback other than generic responses. Looking forward to see this ESC you are referring to.

[StevenBryant]

I don't dislike the SF esc, i use several sf200, the problem is they are not as robust as the MGM, Castle, Schulze or even YGE.


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[kfxguy]

That is exactly what I thought as well. The SF thread went dormant and haven't seen anyone gotten back any feedback other than generic responses. Looking forward to see this ESC you are referring to.

I'm not really referring to anything in particular. I'm just saying if someone does. I have heard through reliable sources that one of the "liked" companies mentioned was supposed to be getting back into boat controllers but that was over a year ago.

[kfxguy]

Seriously guys let me ask you a question. Theoretically, say I buy a bunch of xl2 (well the new version) escs from castle , maybe at a discounted price.....and I converted them to water cooling and epoxy coated them and possibly changed the caps to the proper ones (they put the wrong voltage caps in those escs), how much would you guys be willing to pay for one of these escs? I have one in one of my boats pulling mad amps and it hasn't flinched. They drive very well, have reverse (for the silly people like me that prefer to have that option) and they have a nice datalogging feature. Here's mine but of course I dressed it up some.


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/C3F83161-F8FE-4056-A3F7-EC74717E2DD0.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/C3F83161-F8FE-4056-A3F7-EC74717E2DD0.jpg.html)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/DF5E3A09-E856-4DA5-906B-227477D4248D.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/DF5E3A09-E856-4DA5-906B-227477D4248D.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/C3B59CCC-FC73-4346-9941-771717673EEE_1.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/C3B59CCC-FC73-4346-9941-771717673EEE_1.jpg.html)

[oscarel]

Seriously guys let me ask you a question. Theoretically, say I buy a bunch of xl2 (well the new version) escs from castle , maybe at a discounted price.....and I converted them to water cooling and epoxy coated them and possibly changed the caps to the proper ones (they put the wrong voltage caps in those escs), how much would you guys be willing to pay for one of these escs? I have one in one of my boats pulling mad amps and it hasn't flinched. They drive very well, have reverse (for the silly people like me that prefer to have that option) and they have a nice datalogging feature. Here's mine but of course I dressed it up some.


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/C3F83161-F8FE-4056-A3F7-EC74717E2DD0.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/C3F83161-F8FE-4056-A3F7-EC74717E2DD0.jpg.html)

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/DF5E3A09-E856-4DA5-906B-227477D4248D.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/DF5E3A09-E856-4DA5-906B-227477D4248D.jpg.html)


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/C3B59CCC-FC73-4346-9941-771717673EEE_1.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/C3B59CCC-FC73-4346-9941-771717673EEE_1.jpg.html)

Are the xl2's sold anymore? These (http://www.castlecreations.com/en/phoenix-ice-200-esc-garage-sale-010-0072-00)have worked for me.

[StevenBryant]

Kfxguy do the new version of the XL2 perform as well as the old? I think if you sold a fully waterproof and cooled version similar to the ones you made for yourself you will get quite a few takers.


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[oscarel]

What do you do use a stick radio? I am tired of Pisix kicking the bucket.

Fixed endpoints work with Futaba and the air Castle controllers.

[NativePaul]

My favourite ESCs are the Castle Phoenix Ice Lite range, for the extensive but easy pc programming and the on board datalogging, from a packaging point of view I wish the motor wires were on the ends like most ESC rather than protruding from the middle but it is not a problem for the majority of situations.

The newer Phoenix Edge Lite range that has replaced them are 20-30% heavier (without wires) for the equivalent unit and the added functionality is of no interest to me, so the Ice range is still tops for me while some shops still have stock.

CC Phoenix ESCs are pretty expensive here though at £280 +postage for a 200A unit so I don't have them in all my boats, I have a fair few with Suppo GX200BEC ESCs or the many rebrandings there of, which are available from £22 posted for a Mystery RC 200A unit, they are a bit of a PITA to program, being TX program only and the cheaper ones having a very poor manual, but the ETTI manual is OK. They give better throttle responce and more RPM than the 3 Swordfish ESCs I bought when they first came out thinking they would be an upgrade due to the program box and higher price point. I have heard mixed reviews on them, but the way I use ESCs (datalogging and keeping my peak current under the rated current (except for SAWs)) they have been as reliable as any other.

[kfxguy]

The xl2 isn't sold anymore but there's a new version of it. It's the same controller but at first it had a super neutered firmware compared to the xl2. I think since a bunch of people complained because in back to back testing, the new one was slower, they got rid of the neutering. I'd have to do some research and testing myself to confirm this but they would make great boat controllers if they were water cooled and water proof. I would think a $300ish price point would be fair. Opinions?

[StevenBryant]

I think for the work that goes into it, machining the case, make the water cooling tube, putting it all together and coating it in epoxy then yes I think you are at the right price range. If you are interested I have 2 brand new cases left if you want them?


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[kfxguy]

I think for the work that goes into it, machining the case, make the water cooling tube, putting it all together and coating it in epoxy then yes I think you are at the right price range. If you are interested I have 2 brand new cases left if you want them?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I'll have to devise a different way of doing them. All that machining is too time consuming.

[StevenBryant]

There was a guy on EBay selling water cooling plates, not sure if he is still about, the plate were very neat.


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[jkrych]

The xl2 isn't sold anymore but there's a new version of it. It's the same controller but at first it had a super neutered firmware compared to the xl2. I think since a bunch of people complained because in back to back testing, the new one was slower, they got rid of the neutering. I'd have to do some research and testing myself to confirm this but they would make great boat controllers if they were water cooled and water proof. I would think a $300ish price point would be fair. Opinions?
The firmware was adjusted to add a failed startup error, and they had to dial back power until they knew the software worked.

[kfxguy]

The firmware was adjusted to add a failed startup error, and they had to dial back power until they knew the software worked.

Is it fixed yet?

[jkrych]

Well, I went through both firmware updates with a monster X, and I did notice a new startup with the esc- and no shortage of power so I have to say yes.

[kfxguy]

I just hung up with Joe at castle. He's their resident boat guy. We talked for over a half hour. He's got some good news to let you guys in on. I think you guys will be very pleased and excited. He should be joining in the conversation shortly.

[meangenesracing]

I just hung up with Joe at castle. He's their resident boat guy. We talked for over a half hour. He's got some good news to let you guys in on. I think you guys will be very pleased and excited. He should be joining in the conversation shortly.

well, come on Joe can't wait to hear from you it's been a long time lol

[kfxguy]

Well I was busy at work when I posted the above and couldn't go into any details but I can give some now. They are planning two models. Both waterproof (yay!!!) and one I going to be around 160a and the other around 240a. He also said the technology and r&d that is going into these units should yield us a much better and longer lasting controller than what they previously offered. I'm excited and I can't wait. I bet for slot of you guys this will come as a big relief because now we won't be tied to having to use sub-par controllers with poor quality control or controllers that are extremely over priced and difficult to get. I think this will be a game changer and well welcomed to this section of the Rc hobby.

[Keagan-Z06]

Thanks Travis for your persistence on helping the rest of us out. You were saying something about not having time again?? Lol

[meangenesracing]

Well I was busy at work when I posted the above and couldn't go into any details but I can give some now. They are planning two models. Both waterproof (yay!!!) and one I going to be around 160a and the other around 240a. He also said the technology and r&d that is going into these units should yield us a much better and longer lasting controller than what they previously offered. I'm excited and I can't wait. I bet for slot of you guys this will come as a big relief because now we won't be tied to having to use sub-par controllers with poor quality control or controllers that are extremely over priced and difficult to get. I think this will be a game changer and well welcomed to this section of the Rc hobby.

Awesome news thanks to Joe Ford at Castle

[Mxkid261]

Well I was busy at work when I posted the above and couldn't go into any details but I can give some now. They are planning two models. Both waterproof (yay!!!) and one I going to be around 160a and the other around 240a. He also said the technology and r&d that is going into these units should yield us a much better and longer lasting controller than what they previously offered. I'm excited and I can't wait. I bet for slot of you guys this will come as a big relief because now we won't be tied to having to use sub-par controllers with poor quality control or controllers that are extremely over priced and difficult to get. I think this will be a game changer and well welcomed to this section of the Rc hobby.

Awesome a 240 will be perfect for my rivercat

[kfxguy]

Thanks Travis for your persistence on helping the rest of us out. You were saying something about not having time again?? Lol

Well I had some ideas on how to get some custom made units made and I wasn't going to have to do much work besides assembling them. I definitely don't have the time to machine a bunch of custom water cooled cases but I was looking at getting the ball rolling on something. That's why I called castle, I was trying to get a price and also see if they would seek me the completed boards without the cases. I was just going to buy a bunch of them and farm out the case making to another member here (boredom is me) and try to make this happen. That's also why I was gauging interest in it. I figured if I could make a few bucks per unit for my time and me and boredom supply you guys with quality units then it's a win win. I'm now relieved to know that castle is moving forward once again in the boat market and everyone will once again have the choice of buying a quality esc again. Now if they can keep the price point reasonable they will have themselves a market winner.

[Keagan-Z06]

Did he give a timeline?

[kfxguy]

Did he give a timeline?

Nothing set in stone but he did mention at least 6 months.

[Joe Ford]

As Travis mentioned, we will be working on some new boat ESCs. Over the past year of trade shows and customer interactions, we've received so many requests to make them again. We figure it's time to make some next generation ones with all the modern updates (waterproofing, datalogging, water cooling, etc). It will take some time (6+ mos) for these to come to fruition so your patience is appreciated. We will be taking all the recommendations we've received over the years from customers and our own personal knowledge and wrapping them into packages that hopefully everyone can appreciate and utilize.

[StevenBryant]

Great news Joe will look forward to see what you guys come up with.


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[boredom.is.me]

We can definitely put some work in by then.

[Keagan-Z06]

Thanks Joe for dropping in. That is good news! 240 and 180 ESCs with the above features would be nice!

[shua]

New Castle offerings.

This IS incredible news!!

[golfito]

:pulgar arriba:
Very good news!

[Tamelesstgr]

I'll start saving up now

[StevenBryant]

A 300 HV would be a bonus...


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[RandyatBBY]

As Travis mentioned, we will be working on some new boat ESCs. Over the past year of trade shows and customer interactions, we've received so many requests to make them again. We figure it's time to make some next generation ones with all the modern updates (waterproofing, datalogging, water cooling, etc). It will take some time (6+ mos) for these to come to fruition so your patience is appreciated. We will be taking all the recommendations we've received over the years from customers and our own personal knowledge and wrapping them into packages that hopefully everyone can appreciate and utilize.

I know it hard to build a lasting ESC. But that is one of the big things that makes my favorite ESC. To be constantly replacing really is annoying. To have a water proofing that needs to be reapplied is OK if a warning would let you know that. It would be great. All the other stuff data logging, water cooling, etc is really important too.

I have been using the Mamba Monster 1/8 converted to water cooling in my spec or P LTD classes because they do not blow up with the motor when it lets loose . There is always another project that needs another set of electronics.

I have four old like car ESC one of then is a Novak Tempest. It still works for my car and I will use it until I can afford to get a new Mamba Max Pro for the crawler. It has to be from 1994 or 95. I still have a pile of ESC that need work and would love to send them in to be repaired.

It is good news that Castle Creations is getting back in to the boat market.

[RaceMechaniX]

Great news Joe, hopefully you have the usual suspects lined up for beta testing.

Tyler

[kfxguy]

Great news Joe, hopefully you have the usual suspects lined up for beta testing.

Tyler

And possibly one new suspect :spy:
I'm kinda starting to get excited again about this hobby. I think I lose interest quickly if things aren't changed up somehow for me. I was getting tired of having to build boats around these monstrous sf300 units and having to cut the shrinknoff each one, re-epoxy it and change the cooling crossover hose and figure out a clean way of wiring those 4 huge power wires. All that shenanigans adds to my build time and takes away from fun time. I'm glad castle is getting back into it too and hopefully we can be a part of their development.

[ray schrauwen]

I know it hard to build a lasting ESC. But that is one of the big things that makes my favorite ESC. To be constantly replacing really is annoying. To have a water proofing that needs to be reapplied is OK if a warning would let you know that. It would be great. All the other stuff data logging, water cooling, etc is really important too.

I have been using the Mamba Monster 1/8 converted to water cooling in my spec or P LTD classes because they do not blow up with the motor when it lets loose . There is always another project that needs another set of electronics.

I have four old like car ESC one of then is a Novak Tempest. It still works for my car and I will use it until I can afford to get a new Mamba Max Pro for the crawler. It has to be from 1994 or 95. I still have a pile of ESC that need work and would love to send them in to be repaired.

It is good news that Castle Creations is getting back in to the boat market.

I will be trying the Sidewinder ESC for a spec class this spring. They come fully potted in epoxy from factory. I'll just drill through the heat sink to put cooling tubes on it. If it can handle a 4074 on road hopefully it can handle spec motors. It's not going to be as robust as a Mamba Monster though.

[Mxkid261]

I was getting tired of having to build boats around these monstrous sf300 units

I think that's why I like building smaller stuff, don't need giant electrics then Lol. But my cat could definitely benefit from a larger controller, be interesting to see what they come up with.

[RandyatBBY]

I will be trying the Sidewinder ESC for a spec class this spring. They come fully potted in epoxy from factory. I'll just drill through the heat sink to put cooling tubes on it. If it can handle a 4074 on road hopefully it can handle spec motors. It's not going to be as robust as a Mamba Monster though.

One thing running in water voids the warrante. I only did this because I was leading in points and wanted to stay there.

I think the Sidewinder ESC is a little small for P LTD.

[kfxguy]

One thing running in water voids the warrante. I only did this because I was leading in points and wanted to stay there.

I think the Sidewinder ESC is a little small for P LTD.


We've smoked a couple sidewinders in mild buggy stuff. Heck my sons friend bought one last week, ran the vehicle once then went to run it again and it didn't work anymore. That's the only esc from castle that I wouldn't run in anything. All other are great. Mamba monster 2 is one of my favorites. I love those escs.

[ray schrauwen]

We've smoked a couple sidewinders in mild buggy stuff. Heck my sons friend bought one last week, ran the vehicle once then went to run it again and it didn't work anymore. That's the only esc from castle that I wouldn't run in anything. All other are great. Mamba monster 2 is one of my favorites. I love those escs.

OK, ok. I'll heed your warning. Why they sell it with a 1515 1y boggles my mind then????

I'll save it for something smaller like a df 23.

[ray schrauwen]

One thing running in water voids the warrante. I only did this because I was leading in points and wanted to stay there.

I think the Sidewinder ESC is a little small for P LTD.

Thanks, warning noted. I never worry or care about warranty since it's usually user error in my case, lol.

[kfxguy]

OK, ok. I'll heed your warning. Why they sell it with a 1515 1y boggles my mind then????

I'll save it for something smaller like a df 23.

The sidewinder? I've never seen the sidewinder com with a 1515. Just the 1410 and stuff like that. Now if your referring to the sidewinder 8 that's a different story. That's. 1/8 buggy controller (same as the mamba monster 2) and it's more robust than a sidewinder 2 esc meant for 1/10 size vehicles. The sidewinder 8 will likely work, however my son did toast one of those too but I thing he over geared it. I don't remember. I know the mm2 has a nice protection for over temp and over amp. I'm not certain the sidewinder 8 does. I think it was just a fluke but he hasn't burned up his mm2 in the same vehicle

[kfxguy]

To be clear. This is the sidewinder for 1/8

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/3EA6B799-8195-4AAF-B064-2F04D99CD832.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/3EA6B799-8195-4AAF-B064-2F04D99CD832.jpg.html)


And the regular one for 1/10

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/0206A602-08BA-4ED7-BA0C-940400E62874.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/0206A602-08BA-4ED7-BA0C-940400E62874.jpg.html)

[ray schrauwen]

I have the 1/8th Sidewinder ESC. Great deal around Christmas.

Top picture.

[kfxguy]

I have the 1/8th Sidewinder ESC. Great deal around Christmas.

Top picture.

Your good to go then.

[golfito]

I'm waiting for the mail to deliver two mamba monster 2 ... I'll try to cool them with water.
I understand that you already managed to make the modification in MM2? Did you manage to test them with the 1515 engines in a 30 "/ 35" hull?

[ray schrauwen]

If you are asking me no. I still have a modded xl-2 that needs testing.

If Joe is listening, the 1/8th Sidewinder just needs a water cooling block and it's a nice ESC for under 100 amps and under a hundred bucks.

[Mxkid261]

My buddy runs the 1/8th mamba monster with no water cooling in a v2 geico tp4050 m445 4s it works great I was impressed, how many amps is it rated for?

[golfito]

Thank you so much Schrauwen rays.
I asked you and Kfxguy that I see the esc castle intervened.
I believe 120A continuous have the mamba monsters. I still keep a MMM non-water protection from a V3 combo.

[kfxguy]

Thank you so much Schrauwen rays.
I asked you and Kfxguy that I see the esc castle intervened.
I believe 120A continuous have the mamba monsters. I still keep a MMM non-water protection from a V3 combo.

I didn't quite understand what you said but...

Yes I had a mm2 running a 1515 but it was in a 27" hull. It was enough to go 70+ with the lesser knowledge I had back then. I could easily go faster now. I have that same hull buzzing along at 90+ now but a different motor and esc combo. I shave the fins off the esc and made a cooling black for it. Here's a pic

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/20130922_215646.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/20130922_215646.jpg.html)



http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc243/ltzguy/20140704_160001_1.jpg (http://s218.photobucket.com/user/ltzguy/media/20140704_160001_1.jpg.html)

[golfito]

Very nice work.
That's what I was trying to ask.: Thumbup1:

[kfxguy]

Very nice work.
That's what I was trying to ask.: Thumbup1:


Thanks. That was an older build of mine. The newer build I have now will hopefully be sporting one of these new castle escs.

[ray schrauwen]

Now you've got me wanting to chuck the Sidewinder up in my mini mill attachment for the Taig lathe. Mill those fins off and make a cooling block.

Stop giving me ideas, lol.

[Keagan-Z06]

I would want to give those conversions a try but milling, lathe, not my thing. lol

[RandyatBBY]

I'm waiting for the mail to deliver two mamba monster 2 ... I'll try to cool them with water.
I understand that you already managed to make the modification in MM2? Did you manage to test them with the 1515 engines in a 30 "/ 35" hull?

I ran the MM2 with a 1515 1Y and a 445 prop in a sport hydro, 29 inch. no problem I used a old cooling plate from a old Traxxas Spartan ESC and a BBY made one. remember to use a heat transfer paste between the cooling fins and the plate. I also used the plastic fan attaching case to hold the cooling plate on the ESC.

[RandyatBBY]

Now you've got me wanting to chuck the Sidewinder up in my mini mill attachment for the Taig lathe. Mill those fins off and make a cooling block.

Stop giving me ideas, lol.

I would not do that the fets are too delicate and do not want to damage them. Just put the plate over the fins with heat transfer paste.

[golfito]

Many thanks Randy!
Search for images on the web. I also found a driver that could serve.

Http://www.arcticsilver.com/as5.htm

http://www.arcticsilver.com/cmq2.html


http://www.arcticsilver.com/arctic_alumina.htm

[robw]

This one
http://i572.photobucket.com/albums/ss161/rob500uk/mcd%20xs5/DSC_0821_zpsw85j6xld.jpg (http://s572.photobucket.com/user/rob500uk/media/mcd%20xs5/DSC_0821_zpsw85j6xld.jpg.html)
not tried it yet but for the amount it cost, has to be my favourite.

[ray schrauwen]

I would not do that the fets are too delicate and do not want to damage them. Just put the plate over the fins with heat transfer paste.

Thanks again buddy!

[tjcast]

:popcorn2:

[Keagan-Z06]

This one
http://i572.photobucket.com/albums/ss161/rob500uk/mcd%20xs5/DSC_0821_zpsw85j6xld.jpg (http://s572.photobucket.com/user/rob500uk/media/mcd%20xs5/DSC_0821_zpsw85j6xld.jpg.html)
not tried it yet but for the amount it cost, has to be my favourite.

Those things are gorgeous, wish they were smaller and more affordable.

[jaike5]

Sch. 40/160. Have 5, always looking for an other!!:thumbup:

[RandyatBBY]

Those things are gorgeous, wish they were smaller and more affordable.

Look at the MGM TMM 25035-3 for Race Boats X2-SERIES LITE or MGM TMM 28026-3 for Race Boats X2-SERIES LITE

[Lone-Wolf]

Look at the MGM TMM 25035-3 for Race Boats X2-SERIES LITE or MGM TMM 28026-3 for Race Boats X2-SERIES LITE

I picked up two MGM 28026's (https://www.mgm-controllers.com/race-boats/speed-controllers-escs-1/tmm-28026-3-for-race-boats-x2-series-lite.html) recently for $270 USD each, not bad for 280 amp continuous controllers, yeah not cheap but not too far out of the ballpark for top quality and service. Base price is only $240 USD.

[Pilot-Werx]

Where did you find them for that price?

[ray schrauwen]

I picked up two MGM 28026's (https://www.mgm-controllers.com/race-boats/speed-controllers-escs-1/tmm-28026-3-for-race-boats-x2-series-lite.html) recently for $270 USD each, not bad for 280 amp continuous controllers, yeah not cheap but not too far out of the ballpark for top quality and service. Base price is only $240 USD.

Take care to use some strain relief for the leads since I've seen one fail long ago because of neglect. The wires for input frayed and caused a short cct.

[RandyatBBY]

Take care to use some strain relief for the leads since I've seen one fail long ago because of neglect. The wires for input frayed and caused a short cct.

I have seen water proof receivers with corrosion on the connectors go wild. A little CorrosionX will fix all electronics.

[Lone-Wolf]

Where did you find them for that price?

https://www.mgm-controllers.com/race-boats/speed-controllers-escs-1/tmm-28026-3-for-race-boats-x2-series-lite.html

[RandyatBBY]

It seams every time I look at the price at MGM it is one thing, then I save up and it is more.

[Lone-Wolf]

It seams every time I look at the price at MGM it is one thing, then I save up and it is more.

I would think currency fluctuations cause this, just be thankful you earn USD not Canadian Peso's like me ;-)

[golfito]

I would think currency fluctuations cause this, just be thankful you earn USD not Canadian Peso's like me ;-)



Some are in worse condition yet ...
If you lived in your country would be a complete addict rc ... lol
I'm also saving for a new esc.

[ray schrauwen]

That's funny. I'm saving esc's so not to spend money.

[ray schrauwen]

For what I've done to some SF240's I would say it is my favorite. It has to be bad from factory or you need to make quite a mistake I find for it to let out magic smoke.

[jkr]

HW180 and HW120.

[Doug Smock]

As Travis mentioned, we will be working on some new boat ESCs. Over the past year of trade shows and customer interactions, we've received so many requests to make them again. We figure it's time to make some next generation ones with all the modern updates (waterproofing, datalogging, water cooling, etc). It will take some time (6+ mos) for these to come to fruition so your patience is appreciated. We will be taking all the recommendations we've received over the years from customers and our own personal knowledge and wrapping them into packages that hopefully everyone can appreciate and utilize.

This is great news Joe.
Believe it or not I have Barracuda controls that are still going strong. Still running some 7+ year old Hydra 240s as well.

[Brushless55]

I will be trying the Sidewinder ESC for a spec class this spring. They come fully potted in epoxy from factory. I'll just drill through the heat sink to put cooling tubes on it. If it can handle a 4074 on road hopefully it can handle spec motors. It's not going to be as robust as a Mamba Monster though.

I'm going to borrow your idea Ray!

[ray schrauwen]

I would not do that the fets are too delicate and do not want to damage them. Just put the plate over the fins with heat transfer paste.

It worked. I was gentle with it.


Not sure if I'm going to save the decal or CA it back on. Double sided tape didn't work. Mybe I will order a decal from Castle.

Runs very smooth.

[golfito]

Very nice job Ray.

[Moonie]

Dynamite 120 amp. Lol they never let me down on 4s to 6s.

[Tamelesstgr]

As Travis mentioned, we will be working on some new boat ESCs. Over the past year of trade shows and customer interactions, we've received so many requests to make them again. We figure it's time to make some next generation ones with all the modern updates (waterproofing, datalogging, water cooling, etc). It will take some time (6+ mos) for these to come to fruition so your patience is appreciated. We will be taking all the recommendations we've received over the years from customers and our own personal knowledge and wrapping them into packages that hopefully everyone can appreciate and utilize.

Are these the new Castle ESC's for boating?
http://doctorprops.torgg.com/product/castle-creations-200a-phoenix-edge-brushless-esc-speed-control-logger-water-cooling
151604

[StevenBryant]

Are these the new Castle ESC's for boating?
http://doctorprops.torgg.com/product/castle-creations-200a-phoenix-edge-brushless-esc-speed-control-logger-water-cooling
151604

No these are the Pheonix Edge esc water cooled by a chap called Alex aka Doctor Prop.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[satan_in_secret]

for HV i like Schulze, MGM, SLS
for LV, seaking or marine 120A x2 is suitable

153546

[ray schrauwen]

for HV i like Schulze, MGM, SLS
for LV, seaking or marine 120A x2 is suitable

153546

Sweet ! You doubled up a Seaking 120?? Looks like it with the wires coming off the control board.

[satan_in_secret]

yes 120A power mosfet board was parallel.

[ray schrauwen]

yes 120A power mosfet board was parallel.

If I could get a second fet board I'd ask you for instructions.

[Moonie]

Castle for racing
Dynamite for sport

[RandyatBBY]

I wonder if there is any news from Castle yet? You listening Joe Ford?

[fweasel]

I'm intrigued with new offerings from Flier and another Chinese company called Seal.

[srislash]

I'm intrigued with new offerings from Flier and another Chinese company called Seal.
I think Flier has their ducks in a row now. Any I have have been good and same for anyone I know with them.
Throttle response is excellent as is efficiency

[fweasel]

I think Flier has their ducks in a row now. Any I have have been good and same for anyone I know with them.
Throttle response is excellent as is efficiencyThrottle response is my primary complaint with Swordfish. I got an MGM to try and fit in my little Zonda, but it won't fit under the deck. The Flier's are nice and low profile, probably my next choice

[CraigP]

Throttle response is my primary complaint with Swordfish. I got an MGM to try and fit in my little Zonda, but it won't fit under the deck. The Flier's are nice and low profile, probably my next choice

This complaint comes up frequently on the site... I haven’t experienced the problem, but while scoping out some of the servo signals, I noticed if the servo frame rate gets over 20mS, that reaction time is effected. I have a radio that allows me to set up that parameter, usually under a global setup menu for the transmitter. I set mine to 15mS and all 3 of my SW ESC’s seem just fine. Maybe that’s the variance causing this issue...

[ray schrauwen]

This complaint comes up frequently on the site... I haven’t experienced the problem, but while scoping out some of the servo signals, I noticed if the servo frame rate gets over 20mS, that reaction time is effected. I have a radio that allows me to set up that parameter, usually under a global setup menu for the transmitter. I set mine to 15mS and all 3 of my SW ESC’s seem just fine. Maybe that’s the variance causing this issue...

I just received a ISDT BG8 Batt Go checker and it actually tests your PWM frame rate.

[MG1234]

Can KFX guy please post pic of his ESC and did you add caps? Thanks

[MG1234]

I don’t see any addd caps ?

[kfxguy]

Can KFX guy please post pic of his ESC and did you add caps? Thanks


Yes I always add caps

https://s26.postimg.org/4wpcbwlo9/2E8FFBB0-B7E3-4DAA-A3FB-AC357A24614E.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/719pcznat/)

https://s26.postimg.org/l7pg87iqh/968038A3-C7E2-45B7-B8E3-FBF071564176.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/eh8yyrvkl/)

https://s26.postimg.org/gltbzvkcp/99CA27DF-A077-4CEA-AF17-254DAD513B53.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/us92v3v7p/)


https://s26.postimg.org/59gqi3jdl/D7C06240-CC67-4FE1-8725-345A5B138B3D.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/eu0d4z8ph/)


https://s26.postimg.org/5yziufwrt/F4917452-00E7-411B-A578-E0AD21990050.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/5m84o9ehx/)

[Jesse J]

:drool: Travis... :drool:
Did you make those cooling parts? Or order? Me want!
I have one of those escs to water cool.

[ray schrauwen]

for HV i like Schulze, MGM, SLS
for LV, seaking or marine 120A x2 is suitable

153546

My favorite. Going to TRY to make one.

[NativePaul]

Nice, I know it adds time to the process, but would you consider taking photos along the way and posting a step by step guide on here? I would love to see the process, and possibly follow along. I am sure I would not be the only one interested either.

[dmitry100]

Any major differences between the Castle Edge 200 and Mamba XLX ? The edge is about $80 more in price. Or is that the price for the Heli/Air software?

[Meniscus]

By far, my favorite over the years has been the MGM 280. I've put them through more than they ever should be able to handle. As-long-as you have caps and short wires, they can provide many years of service. Only caveat is that you have to be willing to program correctly with a computer.

[dmitry100]

Meniscus: Whats the most amount of amps you were able to push from one of the 280's?

[ray schrauwen]

Nice, I know it adds time to the process, but would you consider taking photos along the way and posting a step by step guide on here? I would love to see the process, and possibly follow along. I am sure I would not be the only one interested either.

I will if I do it. From what I gather in pictures and conversation with this gentleman, you basically remove the BEC from both and remove the control board from one. There are 2 sets of 6 pins soldered holding it on.

When you see these pictures it's not hard to figure out.

Don't get confused on wire color differences from the picture above. The esc above is just a different batch of colored wire. Color makes no difference. You are basically only soldering connections from the extra fet board to the top of the other control board. Not all 6 wires are used as you can see. He said this can also be done with V3 HW esc's. Actually, I think these pictures are of the V3, pretty sure. Same thing for the V2 I have here.

[ray schrauwen]

Not ssure what he puts in between fet boards to prevent short circuits. I'll ask him.

[Meniscus]

Meniscus: Whats the most amount of amps you were able to push from one of the 280's?

My official answer is 280A. :laugh: I cannot confirm or deny that they will handle more than that (laughing). Often, you will find that you will exceed the current capacity on the motor prior to hitting 280A. Even for my SAW record, I don't see anything near that, even on low voltage and 2s. However, I've been running my own motors for some time now.

If you run the numbers on 6s, pulling 280A is more than 8 horsepower. I doubt there are very many of us that pull quite that much, but I know there are a few that do, especially with advanced timing! :wink:

The point of sharing my favorite was reliability. I haven't had an issue for many, many years now and the 280s I have still run strong with no signs of letting-up. (knock on wood)

[dmitry100]

Well, a dual cat running LMT 1950's at 73k unloaded push much more than 300 amps... and I don't want to run an ESC that will limit me in amps. Which is what the MGM appears to do. Don't want to spend over $750 for ESC's that will not let me run uncapped anyways (it used to be much less around a year ago because of the USD to Euro exchange rates)

Hopefully there will be some 250-300 amp opensource ESC's available really soon - which appear to be much more efficient and better designed than anything in RC out there. Running firmware which can be tweaked and modified as needed.

[jim82]

What would be nice is if the mark up on them would come down some.

[StevenBryant]

Hopefully there will be some 250-300 amp opensource ESC's available really soon - which appear to be much more efficient and better designed than anything in RC out there. Running firmware which can be tweaked and modified as needed.

Interesting Dmitry can you tell us more about these speed controllers??


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[dmitry100]

ray, are these the ones as in the picture? https://www.hobbywingdirect.com/collections/marine-esc/products/seaking-pro-120a-esc?variant=30055448785

I would imagine the new 160 amp seakings have a similar layout - but does anyone know if they are completely sealed, or is it possible to pop open. That would be cool to stack those for a "320" amp total...

ANDDDD.... 2,000 amp burst :w00t:

[jim82]

I don't know why they don't just make one not like they wouldn't sell

[dmitry100]

Ray, maybe use long 30mm Male header pins to connect the 2 power boards to the control board ? Would be more reliable and easier than with wires (if thats what you were going to use).

You can get them on amazon but ebay has big selection.

[ray schrauwen]

Well... on FB when Bill Oxidean was at the factory the other day, I sent him a picture of it ans told him to show it to them just before he blocked me out. Seems like good ideas only go so far.
If you see one come out with Bill's name brand on it you know who gave the poke. :biggrin:


I don't know why they don't just make one not like they wouldn't sell

[ray schrauwen]

That's a great idea, however the pins only go through the control board and the pins actually have a 90* bend to solder flat on the FET board.
I don't want to try to drill through the board to make that happen, not sure what other traces on the board may be effected? Actually I'd be drilling through fets. The way it's manufactured, they solder the pins on the FET board first then the control board goes on.


Ray, maybe use long 30mm Male header pins to connect the 2 power boards to the control board ? Would be more reliable and easier than with wires (if thats what you were going to use).

You can get them on amazon but ebay has big selection.

[jim82]

Well... on FB when Bill Oxidean was at the factory the other day, I sent him a picture of it ans told him to show it to them just before he blocked me out. Seems like good ideas only go so far.
If you see one come out with Bill's name brand on it you know who gave the poke. :biggrin:

That is probably what will happen to

[ray schrauwen]

We shall see. It's on on record on FB. :hornets_nest: Nothing escapes the Zuckerberg Algorithm!

[dmitry100]

Does anyone have a close up picture of the power boards of the Castle Ice 200 and Edge 200 by any chance? Or model numbers of the Mosfets of either

I want to compare and see if anything was updated in the Edge 200

[MG1234]

As far as favorite ESC just ordered a flier 16s 200 amp boat ESC with large cap bank built in ,its also for surfboards,I’ll see how it goes ,other guys have posted that they have had good luck with flier,

[dmitry100]

Those fliers weigh like 5 lbs lol

[MG1234]

If they work,they last,are cost effective, I’ve had some that were re branded to RCBB they were not heavy ,they were a little larger so those guys would stack them up for the twins which seemed to work good ,I’ll post a pic of this one for surfboards ,it has caps already in it ,don’t have it yet ,

[dmitry100]

I'm sure MGM's are GREAT and all that stuff but ... i think they are a great example of how quality is perceived through a great looking brand/sticker/packaging/price tag.