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8. Charging the vehicle battery pack
A rechargeable battery pack is not included in delivery. It has to be ordered separately. You require a rechargeable
battery pack of 6 SUB-C cells (NiMH or NiCd batteries) with an output voltage of 7.2 V. This type of battery pack is also
called "racing pack".
The rechargeable battery pack is usually empty upon delivery and must be charged.
Before the rechargeable battery pack reaches maximum capacity, several complete discharge and charge cycles are
necessary.
Always use up a NiCd battery pack completely as recharging a "half-full" battery pack repeatedly can cause the so-
called memory effect. This means that the rechargeable battery pack loses its capacity and no longer provides maximum
energy. This reduces operating time.
With NiMH technology this effect is far weaker and recharging partially discharged rechargeable batteries is less
problematic.
High-quality rechargeable batteries have higher capacity, which allows you to drive your model vehicle much longer,
and they provide a higher output voltage under load. This provides the motor with more power and results in better
acceleration and a higher speed.
If you use several rechargeable batteries or battery packs, purchasing a high-quality charger may be worthwhile. Such
chargers usually offer a chick-charging feature and in some cases a discharging feature as well.
Rechargeable batteries heat up when charged or discharged (driving the vehicle). Wait until the rechargeable batteries
have reached room temperature before charging them. The same applies after the charging procedure. Do not use
the rechargeable batteries in the vehicle until they have cooled down sufficiently after the charging process.
