Re: Untethered Action! [TANKS]

[Frank Pittelli <frank-at-rctankcombat.com>]

adt22-at-drexel.edu wrote:
> My ~16 gauge wire got warm after a couple minutes of running. 

16 gauge wire is basically a "fuse" for our motors :-(

We use doubled-up 10 gauge runs from the battery, through the cut-off 
switch and fuses, to the speed controller, with single 10 gauge runs 
from the speed controller to each motor.  You could use a single 6 gauge 
cable instead of the doubled-up 10 gauge without a problem.

Also, keep in mind that the connectors need to be just as robust because 
they will overheat as well.  We recently switched from doubled-up Molex 
power connectors (20 amp max) to a single 50 amp connector for added 
safety and longer reliability.

As for barrier strips, either use the larger size with #10 screws or 
create your own out of 1/4" bolts attached to a piece of wood or 
masonite, with connectors made out of brass or aluminium between posts 
to gang together circuits. It doesn't hurt to put some pieces of wood or 
masonite between the various circuits to keep them from shorting (ie. 
welding).

        Frank P.