Just starting Battery/RC

[Anonymous]

I have visited various web sites for companies that provide these systems.
Is this some thing the average modeler can do on his own or does it require someone else to install. I didn't realize there are so many battery choices.

Any basic info to help guide would be helpful. The tone I get from Aristo is that they are plug and play. But-----

[Anonymous]

Any average ability modeller can install batteries and radio control but if you have a rather expensive locomotive it does take a certain amount of courage to pull it apart to do this. Perhaps it would be a good idea to start with a second hand engine that has seen better days so as to gain some confidence in the surgery that may be necessary. I use conventional rc in electrical driven locos substituting a speed and direction controller in place of the conventional servo motor, these are very compact and in the smallest of engines you should be able to find space for them. Batteries are an emotive issue personally I use NiMh which for their capacity are very compact and do not suffer quite so badly from the memory problems that plague NiCds, they are a little more sensitive in their charging requirements. You can now obtain AA size batteries with a capacity of 3AHs which will give you 3hrs running with a 1amp motor, if your loco has a motor that takes 1amp it should be ample large enough to hold a receiver, speed controller and say ten AA NiMh batteries. New boys on the block are lithium batteries for their size these are truly awsome in power output but on the downside are rather sensitive in how they are charged. R.C.S do a very nice rc set up a little pricey but very compact and a doddle to install. I hope this helps a little but with a little common sense and a few $ there is no reason why you should not install your own rc and battery system. If I can help any further you only have to ask, best wishes Brian Goring

[dsweet]

The reply from Brian is perfect. I have been installing and offering RCS systems for a long time. Aristo Craft is actually suggesting using a battery car for their gear. We offer both types of installs. What do you want? A true onboard installation or one carried in a trailer car. If you can contact me off line we can get into more details.

Don Sweet
www.remotecontrolthrottles.com

[jnichols]

Don't be afraid to tackle one of these installations by yourself. There is a wealth of knowledge out there and many people willing to help if you run into problems. Since I have completely converted all my large scale equipment over to R/C and battery power, I have really enjoyed my outdoor trains a great deal.

In case you're wondering, I use the new Airwire system from CVP for control, several Soundtraxx Tsunami and a couple of ESU Loksound decoders for sound, and Li-Ion battery packs from Batteryspace.com for power. This combination of products has yielded a very reliable, flexible and enjoyable outdoor experience, and I highly recommend the use for any of them separately or used together.... [:D]

Good luck and don't be afraid to try at least one!

Jeff