Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 1S to 10S?
S is for the word cell. 1 to 10 is the quantity of them. An RC Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery typically has 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 or 10 cells. LiPo batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.7 volts per cell. This voltage raises to 4.2 volts when fully charged. A typical 2S battery is labeled as 8.4 volts. An RC battery that is rated HV or High Voltage, is typically 4.35 volts per cell when fully charged.
A typical entry level “Basher” RC car or truck uses 2S, sometimes 3S. Most off-road RC “Race” cars and trucks use 2S or 4S. Most on-road RC “Race” cars use 1S or 2S. There are lots of big 6S and 8S “Basher” RC Trucks. 10S is typically for very experienced RC enthusiasts that are modifying or designing custom high end RC vehicles. Some RC vehicles use 2 batteries connected together in series. For example, a 6S RC truck may use two 3S batteries to give the same voltage as one 6S battery. Or an 8S may use two 4S batteries.
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How do I pick the right gauge (awg) wire?
Select wire that can carry more amps than the rest of the equipment. As the diameter of wire increases, the gauge, also called AWG, number goes down. 20 AWG is fairly thin. 10 AWG is fairly thick. Most types of electrical wire can carry hundreds of volts. It’s the amp rating that is typically important in RC. Thicker, heavier wire can carry more amps. Heavier wire also increases the overall durability or toughness of a charging lead. When in doubt, select larger size wire. It’s only a few more dollars. It’s typically $2-$5 more for something a bit bigger.
Most entry level RC battery chargers can put out around 7-10 amps maximum. Some, usually very expensive chargers, can put out 70 amps maximum. A typical, very competitive racer might have a charger capable of around 40 amps maximum. Most RC battery chargers have 4mm bullet connectors or XT60 for the main +positive and -negative output. 4mm bullets can handle 75 amps maximum. XT60 can handle 30 amps maximum.
Keep in mind a charging lead can only carry as many amps as its weakest component. (A chain is only as strong as its weakest link) Big wire can carry high amps. Small connectors cannot. Most Batteries don’t like being charged at high amperages anyways. Most of the Charging Leads that we sell are 12 AWG.
RC battery chargers typically put out 2 amps or less to the battery through the balance wires and JST balance connector. JST connectors can handle 3 amps maximum.
Here are the basic amp carrying capacities of the wire we offer:
- 22 AWG approximately 2.5 amps
- 20 AWG approximately 4 amps
- 18 AWG – 7 amps
- 16 AWG – 10 amps
- 14 AWG – 20 amps
- 12 AWG – 25 amps
- 10 AWG – 40 amps
- 8 AWG – 60 amps
- 6 AWG – 80 amps
Always charge at a safe rate for your particular battery, charger and all equipment involved. Check and follow all manufacturer warnings and recommendations for all electronics.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
How do I identify my connector?
CLICK HERE to see our selection of connectors for sale with names and pictures of every connector we offer.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
Can I order a custom length Charging Lead?
Yes. You can order any custom length.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
How long does it take to get charging leads if I order today?
From the time we receive your order, it typically takes 7-10 business days until it is shipped. It typically takes 2-4 days shipping in the continental USA. If you need faster service, call for expedited rates.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
What if I don’t see my connector listed when picking out a charging lead?
CLICK HERE to see our selection of connectors for sale with names and pictures of every connector we offer. We stock most connectors used for hobby grade RC cars. Sometimes Walmart / Tyco / Radio Shack and other toy grade RC cars use different kinds.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
How does our 1/8 Nitro Reciever Battery Balance Charging Lead Work?
The Nitro Rx charging lead connects to your chargers main +positive/-negative and balance connections just like any other charging lead or balance board. This next part is where it might be a bit different for you - It connects to ONLY the balance port on your battery. It does not connect to the servo style connector. It charges through the balance port. The MCRC Nitro Rx Charging Lead is rated at maximum 3 amps for charging and discharging. MCRC Nitro Rx Charging Leads are capable of charging, balance charging, discharging and storage charging / storage discharging.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
Can I discharge my battery with an MCRC Charging Lead?
Yes. All MCRC Charging Leads are capable of discharging. All MCRC Charging Leads are capable of charging, balance charging, discharging and storage charging / storage discharging.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
Can I balance charge my battery with an MCRC Charging Lead?
Yes. All MCRC Charging Leads are capable of balance charging. All MCRC Charging Leads are capable of charging, balance charging, discharging and storage charging / storage discharging.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.
How do I know what Charging Lead to order?
There are only a few things to know. It’s pretty easy.
Select the Charging Lead category for how many “S” your battery is. 1S-10S
Selecting the length is personal preference. Personally, I like 36” long Charging Leads.
Use pictures with names to select the connectors that match the ones on your battery charger and battery.
Selecting the colors of the outer sheathing that covers the +positive, -negative and balance wires is the fun part. Selecting the colors for the Heat Shrink at the sheathing joints is just as easy. Be creative. Pick fun and exciting colors. Show your style.
Call or text (218) 213-5838. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I answer the phone and texts during the days, evenings and weekends. Overnight contacts will be returned the next day.