The new IB 3800 cells have extremely high voltage and current flow characteristics so special care should be used when using these cells in extreme applications. We have seen instances where very low wind modified motors are having the plastic end-bells literally melt! In brushless systems you may see faster thremalling of the speed control.

PLEASE USE A HIGH QUALITY CHARGER SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO CHARGE NI-MH CELLS AND THAT HAS ADJUSTABLE PEAK DETECTION OR THERMAL CHARGING CAPABILITIES.

How do I take care of the New IB 3800s? These cells require a bit more attention than the GP cells due to their extreme performance characteristics. Charge these cells at 5-6 amps and start by setting the peak detection value to the lowest setting on your charger. Higher charge rates/peak detection settings may cause the cells to vent, which may damage them and shorten the life expectancy of the pack. YOU MUST MONITOR THE BATTER PACK CLOSELY ON THE FIRST CHARGE CYCLE as it may false peak. Should it false peak restart the charger. As the pack nears completion of charge it will start to get warm. Here is where it is critical to monitor the temperature of the pack. Check the temperature (preferably with an infrared temperature sensor) every minute or so and note the temperature that the battery reaches immediately upon completion of the charge cycle. If your charger shuts off at between 125-135 degrees Fahrenheit then you have selected the proper peak detection value. If the temperature is below this range then increase the peak detection to the next higher value. If your charger does not shut off before the temperature reaches 135 degrees Fahrenheit then you should unplug the pack and consult the manufacturer of the charger for a solution. Once you have established the proper peak detection setting for your charger you should use these settings all the time.

For short-term storage (less than a week). After racing (if you charge the packs more than once a night do not discharge between races), discharge the packs to 0.9 volts per cell (5.4 volts for a 6 cell pack) and put them away. The next use and just before charging, we recommend the use of an equalization tray (diode built-in) for these cells. Leave the cells on the tray only long enough for the LEDs to go out. You should charge the cells up immediately after equalization. For longer periods of inactivity some charge must be left in these cells. Expect a temporary decrease in performance after long periods of inactivity. After the packs are run a few times performance should be restored.

Written by the fine folks at Promatch Racing!

This editorial was brought to you by the fine folks at SublimeRC.com. Please check out our eBay Sale Auctions and our website.