How To Discharge Your R/C LiPo Batteries - Fast!

For optimal LiPo health, it's best to never let a fully charged LiPo sit idle. Let's discuss how to remedy that.
Got Watts?
Check out dischargers here:
iSDT FD100: www.amainhobbi...
iSDT FD200: www.amainhobbi...
Motiv Pro (iCharger only): www.amainhobbi...
SkyRC BD250: www.amainhobbi...
All R/C'ers should have a Cell Checker of some kind; this is my go-to:
Spektrum XBC100: www.amainhobbi...
Did you miss our 10 LiPo Mistakes video?
• 10 RC LiPo Mistakes & ...
For all of your RC needs visit AMain Hobbies: bit.ly/XcAuJr
Follow us on Instagram: / amainhobbies
Like AMain Hobbies on Facebook: / amainhobbies
Follow @AMainHobbies on Twitter: / amain_com
MUSIC BY: @DCUTTERMUSIC / HTTP://WWW.DAVIDCUTTER...

[@NitroStarGT]

I've had mine for a while. Helps a LOT. I've got to make me a chart for each cell lipo and state what amps and what volts to set it at. You have to set the volts lower than storage (but not much) so they will be at or near storage when they rest after discharging at a high amp load. This can be a safety issue so be VERY careful and pay close attention when discharging each battery on this device. And this all depends on the resistance in the discharge lead that you use for each different connector.

[@charlesbonkley]

"Back in my day..." we called that "dumping" the battery, and it was also thought to help break the "hairs" and "memory" of the older NiCd packs.

[@rcflo7300]

I always discharge them to storage mode with a lipo checker and a 12 V light bulb, works perfect for me.

[@fabioralvarez]

thanks

[@wizard7mm]

I actually use an old Harley headlight and a lipo checker

[@robbryan3044]

While a charger's discharge ability is "decent", I'm in complete agreement on using a dedicated discharger. A lot of people will probably recommend the iSDT FD100, or even the FD200. After reading several reviews on iSDT products, I decided to avoid their entire product line. Searching around, something led me to checking out the Maylibet a12. Even though it has a maximum discharge rate of 120W, it discharges at approximately 8A (I've seen it discharging at 8.2A). Some of its benefits are as follows: 1) It has its own built-in balance board - It accepts 2S-6S, with balancing plug plugged directly into the a12. 2) It doesn't require a power supply - The battery being discharged "IS" the power supply. 3) One-button operation - Press once to turn unit on, press again to start the discharging. If you need to stop discharging, just press the button again. 4) Auto shut-off - This is a "smart discharger", programmed to automatically stop when cells are at 3.80-3.85V, and then it shuts off after cooling (approx another 20 seconds). 5) Informative backlit LCD display - Display shows total voltage, voltage/cell, discharge amperage, elapsed time, mAh discharged, and cell count. The only down side (if you choose to count this as a "down side") is the price - $70. Compared to the iSDT FD100's $35-40 price, the Maylibet is expensive...but, compared to the iSDT FD200, it's somewhat more affordable. Of course, when you compare the Maylibet a12 against either iSDT discharger, and consider the five benefits mentioned above, the Maqylibet a12 starts looking like a "smart investment". Now, all we need is for AMain to start carrying it (hint, hint).

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Do you have a link to it? -Brett

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Appreciate it. We'll check that out. -Brett

[@sangamonriverrats6769]

great video as always ... i used to use a light bar and battery checker to discharge my lipos, but i lost a few getting side tracked. sooo i bought a bd200 .... i love it, i use it to cycle my race batteries before race day ... best 100 bucks ever!

[@SebastianLong]

You forgot to mention for the low budget people in mind, if they have a small lipo charger and a cell checker, some cell checkers also have a discharger built in. While it may be a lot slower than a charger with a discharge feature, it will still get the lipo to the storage capacity.

[@drummerdad80]

Wierd i just put a battery on discharge and this video shows up. Is my phone creeping on me🤔

[@noschill7595]

Always does

[@MetalArms16212]

Yup

[@RICKY420z]

Yh it's used to personalize advertising

[@theirishaxe9405]

Yes

[@nickb5091]

Not weird.

[@ericmdk]

Usually most chargers on storage mode will automatically discharge. Also cheaper chargers the discharge mode takes the battery below storage voltage. So just try using the storage mode for discharging to storage voltage. It will take a while but it's also quite safe because the amp rate is low. ALWAYS CONNECT THE BALANCE LEAD TO THE CHARGER FOR DOING ANYTHING. Simple insurance against many things that can go wrong with the cells.

[@TheYoungerSemiOldMan]

OK, you have yo explain what that means for people who have been out of the game for 25yrs. What is the balance lead? I mean, wouldn't it be obvious you have to connect the battery wires to the machine in order to charge or discharge? Why did you out it in caps? What will happen if peoole miss your step? Will it explode in your fave blinding your and burning skin? I mean, we don't understand your urgency so you have to explain what and why.

[@JaceN3D]

@@TheYoungerSemiOldManalance lead is usually only on lithium batteries with more than one cell. It has one positive connecting to all the cells, and a negative wire for each cell. It is so each cell can reach a voltage of what i think is 4.25 volts (might be lower) and stop. If a cell goes above thE maximum cell voltage (what happens when you charge lithium battery withour balance cable), it will puff up and probably explode For most other batteries, like ni-mh/cd, those black batteries you can find in kids cars, and a single cell lipo, you dont need a balance cable(they only come with a single cable. It is the same uou will use to charge it and plug into your RC). You just need to not overcharge the batteries, and especially not the lipo (it will have yhe same effect as charging without balance charger on a multi cell battery, it will explode).

[@tlfbshti364]

"DISCHARGE LASAGNA" IS NOT SOMETHING THAT SHOULD EVER, EVER BE SAID OUT LOUD LMAO!!!!!1!

[@markamd1]

LOL!!!

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Haha, ok. It made me hungry too. -Brett

[@MrNams]

@@AMain_Hobbies Can you please tell me, why we need to discharge lipo? any link to read

[@AMain_Hobbies]

@@MrNams If for some reason the voltage is higher than the storage voltage, you would want to discharge the battery down. Sometimes, we charge packs but can't use them, that's a good reason to discharge them. When the batteries sit idle unused, they should be at the storage voltage. -Brett

[@josierudd4459]

Sounds cheesy

[@drjavogel]

Excellent information but I got lost with the math -- as usual. I'm sure the manual that comes with the device will help or I'll just watch this video again. Thanks, Brett.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Awh shoot. Dang math. -Brett

[@LargeeeScaleLife]

I didn’t even know these existed I’m definitely going to be ordering one I have a lot of crawlers and trail trucks also some large monster trucks sometimes I end up not using all the batteries are charged and my desktop charger takes for ever to discharge because it will only discharge at one amp

[@deanopud69]

Oof one amp 😬

[@FringeMinority]

Confused but informed 🤪

[@FarmerFpv]

According to your math, I need that Skyrc BD200! Going to use my amain points before they expire. :)

[@RCsRCCars]

I know every Amain video is trying to sell me something. Good thing I like buying RC gadgets!

[@RMJ1984]

0:17 seriously can't stop laughing. Comedy gold, putting on the sunglasses.

[@MrRockzilla86]

AmainHobbies is the best and most informative hobbyshop you will ever find!..Bought lots of stuff from you guys online on eBay and you have great KZbin informational videos..My question is how do you properly discharge a Traxxas 2s or 3s lipo ID connector style battery, after you only use about half of its power running your RC..WITHOUT having to fully run it down through your RC model?.. meaning I just want to run a crawler for 20 or 30 minutes and be done..How do you discharge LiPo battery pack to a safe level (3.4-3.2 volts per cell I believe) WITHOUT running it down in your RC?...Thanks

[@hondofourfivetwo9347]

I remember the most high tech thing was that relay that was used with a voltage cut off for NICAD’s no more having to watch for the bulbs to dim on the homemade dischargers.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Yeah! I remember those but never had one. Fancy stuff. -Brett

[@RazorRC]

Funny and informative video, well done Brett!

[@npntube6847]

I was interested in discharging lipos, but immediately after starting the video I had to check out David Cutter, amazing!

[@jwilson086]

I remember dumping the batteries using those homemade strings of lights 😂

[@aerodynamicist4]

I use Traxxas batteries, charger, and the voltage checker. After every run, I always storage charge the batteries. However sometimes I will leave the battery in the vehicle, set the throttle trim to max, and leave it upside down to discharge the battery by running the car. If I have a LiPo at 4.2V it takes about 3 hours to get down to 3.8V using a 2 cell 5800 mah battery. That seems to be more effective than using the discharge feature on the Traxxas EZ-Peak charger. I can only do this on my non-Traxxas vehicles, since (for whatever reason) Traxxas vehicles don't have throttle trim

[@jake4194]

Running your car at max throttle with no load on the wheels is asking to break something. I would run it at like quarter throttle max.

[@GreatLakesRC]

It's all about the math! I love it!!! great video, I can't tell you how man times I have had to bust out ohm's law with people on social media, and inevitably they don't get it or don't believe me, lol!

[@ExcelCannabisLimited]

Thanks... this video just saved my butt from screwing up my new 6s lipos (ya I’m new to the whole lipo battery thing lol)

[@stevejackson3564]

You make good videos all the time. When discharging with the light bulb method & that many bulbs the sunglasses are a must but next time don't forget the hotdogs and a stick. I just use the junsi 106 for my needs.

[@birminghamgtrc]

Very well explain my friend thank you for the breakdown 💯👌🏾 very useful info 👊🏾👑

[@TFWS6]

Hahah that cracked me up when he made the old school reference. I once was caught in a drive by shooting while walking to a hobby shop for a pinion gear lol.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Holy Smokes! Hope you weren't hurt. -Brett

[@jessie38supercharged]

even when the charger says 3 or 4 amp discharge rate, they usually only do like .3 or .4

[@ng-iq4kx]

First, I'll let you use my welding helmet so you don't go blind. What I did years ago was made a lead, one end plugs into the battery other end alligator clips. 1 electrical outlet, 1 toaster. You can figure out the hook-up. Needless to say I ate lots of toast but it worked.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Ha! Pretty clever. -Brett

[@markamd1]

Another great video! Thanks mate for the awesome information!

[@TheYoungerSemiOldMan]

I think what isn't known as I have been out of RCs for 25yrs are the small details. I just bought my little son and I brand new trucks. A lot has changed since then. The questions no one is saying is 1) why do I need to discharge it 2) do I have to do this every single day we go out and recharge every single day we want to go as this seems ridiculous 3) what are these explosions everyone is having every week from their batteries? I spoke to some and theyve never had an issue. Others make it seem like its a love grenade ready to explode at any moment.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

There are tons of great in-depth articles on some of these topics with a google search, but the quick and dirty of it is: 1) Rechargeable batteries have an optimal resting point or voltage they like to sit at. This was present with the old NiCd cells, and then with NiMH cells, and now with LiPo's. 2) For optimal performance and lifespan of the LiPo, you should storage charge the battery after every use to return the battery to it's optimal voltage level. 3) I have never of any LiPo exploding. There have been a cases of fires, usually from misuse when charging, but it's rare. The most important thing with LiPo's is making sure the cells stay balanced, because if they start to run away from each other, it's a really dangerous situation. But as long as you're using a LiPo Balance Charger, and using those functions, the battery should never get imbalanced. -Brett

[@TheYoungerSemiOldMan]

@@AMain_Hobbies thanks a lot bro. So after each run, I have to put all 4 batteries (2me, 2 sons), on storage mode which should drain the battery on its own? So each time we want to go out, you literally have to plan it and charge all the batteries back up again? Seems like a pain in the rear my man.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

​@@TheYoungerSemiOldMan The Storage Charge mode will either add energy or remove it, depending on where the battery voltage is when starting the process. LiPo cells degrade the least when at 3.7V - 3.8V per cell. LiPo cells degrade the most when they are 100% full, or 4.20V per cell. This often happens when you want to drive, charge a pack, but then can't drive for some reason and the battery sits on the shelf for days, weeks, etc. I recommend just try your best to only charge the batteries when you'll be immediately using them, and try not to let the batteries sit unused with 100% power in them. Congrats on picking up two cars for you and your son by the way! R/C has changed a lot, but the cars, electronics and technology is so good these days; it's a good time to be in the hobby. What cars did you get, and what batteries are you using? -Brett

[@galvestonco.rcenthusiast1890]

I'm trying to discharge my lipos for trash. Is there technology for that? Thanks,Good video!

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Discharge the battery like normal on your charger if possible. Then prepare a plastic container (do not use metal) of cold water, and mix in ½ cup of salt per gallon of water, and drop in the battery. Allow the battery to remain in the tub of salt water for at least 2 weeks. This salt bath will neutralize any remaining power in the battery. -Brett

[@roynorthcutt830]

Great video. Always helpful videos. Wish I lived in chico

[@tomandrews5392]

Great as usual Brett .....

[@addamwright704]

So I am getting back into the hobby and have a few lipos that I have learned i am not treating as well as I should be from your videos. In this and the mistakes video you mention *storage voltage but never say what that recommended voltage is (or I completely missed it both times!). I assume it is around the 3.7 volts per cell but wanted to make sure. Thanks for these videos as I learned a lot. I was charging them to full and leaving them sit for weeks so I will not be doing this any more :)

[@AMain_Hobbies]

The exact storage voltage varies a little from one lipo manufacturer to the next, so we recommend you follow their guidance to not void your warranty, if there is one. But 3.8 volts a cell is a good storage voltage. Really happy our videos have helped your understanding of lipos! They're great batteries, with a few rules to follow for best long term health. Thanks for the comment and happy we could help. Thanks. -Brett

[@rcbarbados7217]

skyrc really good product. using it very often. good video

[@Ozzy3333333]

For $20 use the AOKoda 150W 6s discharger/balancer and voltage checker, win win.

[@justinchiu2010]

Hello, I have another suggest to you! That is LiPO battery power recycling. You have to ready: 1. A large LiFE battery 14.4v/20A or 14.4v/40A. Because LiFE Battery can store full power for a long time. 2. Your charger can charge LiPO and LiFE, the charge power need push about 600w or higher power. For example, When you want to play RC car you can use LIFE to charge LiPO battery. If your RC car crashed or suddenly rain ...... etc, these situation let you can not counitnue to play. You can use your LiPO to charge LiFE, that is power recycling. I had tried to do this 2x2S/5000ma LiPO (series connection) use 20A to charge the large LiFE, let LiPO become 3.8v per cell only spent 14 minutes.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Great idea. We have not discussed this before. Thank you. -Brett

[@friggerx3150]

Never had to bust out the calculator with my nitro or gasser. Turn it upside down open the fill cap discharged done.

[@Angrykat420]

What Billy maze was to oxy clean infomercials and what joe rogan is to MMA brett is the ambassador to the RC world.

[@KTHKUHNKK]

GREAT STUFF BUDDY KEITH

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Thanks Keith! -Brett

[@KTHKUHNKK]

@@AMain_Hobbies I have the HTRC t240 When it completes charging will it really buzz or beep ? Also if you know on that charger.

[@KTHKUHNKK]

One more thing. When fully charge my batteries say 16.7 The charger only reads 16.3. Will charge over and beyond that ?

[@travispratt6327]

Oh I know what my discharge is… it’s 5w, extremely frustrating and why I’m watching this lol.

[@GrumpyOldManRC]

You forgot, "Up hill, both ways." I've used the light bulbs on my nicads back in the day and look at you, acting all grown up. What did you do with my Brett?😊😮😁

[@AMain_Hobbies]

HA! I never left the shop though. -Brett

[@GrumpyOldManRC]

I've seen you nut out at that table.😁

[@667Gurba]

I use bulbs connected to a cell meter. That way the batteries are also balanced. These dischargers don't do that. I wonder why they don't have that feature. If they did I would buy one.

[@c957327]

Great info, helpful and interesting but (sorry to be negative) Do you think showing an rc car on a busy street is something you want your viewers to emulate?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

May not be the best idea we've had but we inhale a lot of nitro fumes. Thanks for the feedback. -Brett

[@uan588]

My wife tells me not to race in road. Then I was chasing little truckie And I was run over by 18 wheeler wiff 50 weelz. Honest. I’m nut lying 🤥

[@sadmancho]

I always just use my rc car to discharge my LiPo to then charge it on storage mode after.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Great method Sadman! -Brett

[@Chimi1993]

Why on storage mode im new to electric help!

[@sadmancho]

Antonio Eufracio you put the battery in storage (charge) mode to preserve the battery if your not going to be using them for multiple months. Like I do it during the winter when I’m not using my rc car. It helps preserve the life of the Lipo battery.

[@adrian7008]

Sadman Chowdhury you discharge after it reaches the volts you put the storage to right?

[@sadmancho]

@@adrian7008 If the battery is fully charged play with it in your car to discharge the battery until it's empty or near empty then charge it in storage mode on your charger. Having the battery in storage mode will keep the battery at a good level for 6 - 10 months.

[@ponesm5124]

Those were the good old days!

[@christiancooper478]

I have the traxxas id ez peak plus charger, im not sure if i can trust the storage charge, when it comes to these batteries, i get extremely paranoid that its not being storage charged. The owner’s manual doesnt really explain how to discharge the battery before recharging the battery for storage either. I cant really find any video or how-to guides that can explain that. I just bought the bundle because i just dropped about 480 dollars on a the traxxas gt4 supra, wheels and drift tires. This is my second 3rd rc car ive owned, second traxxas car, first lip id battery I’ve owned and i pretty much want to keep the battery in tip top shape because i cant afford another battery if this one goes, at the moment.

[@RC-ScalerandBuilder]

Thanks for the info. I didn’t know this was a problem that I had, I just assumed it’s supposed to take forever to discharge in my chargers....wait, is this some kind of sneaky marketing? 😉 Cause it’s working...😋

[@AMain_Hobbies]

It does take forever, but it doesn't have to be... -Brett

[@Chimi1993]

Is he the guy from the losi ads when i was little

[@PickleJelly98]

Im confused. Whats that 8.4v? Isnt 2s 7.4v? 3.7v per cell😅

[@samuelstacey2309]

Great Jimmy Stewart hahaha😂

[@roger45ify]

I use the Traxxas EZ peak live charger and batteries with my X Maxx and worry about none of that.

[@robertmonty6544]

I have an I charger 406duo with a 40 Amp discharge and it seems to work great. I'm new to the whole lipo thing. Is a 40 Amp discharge to much for mudboss racing and what are good batteries for 12t mudboss racing that will deliver good power. Also ,how many times can I use the same pck in a race day and how long should it rest between charges.

[@geejayrc9401]

Wot wot? i thought my light bulb theory was fool proof :)

[@Macnificent78_]

Omggg what r c car was that doing that mile long wheelie that was some Impressive throttling control 🔥🔥🔥🔥💯💯💯💯🤝🏿🤝🏿🤝🏿

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Yeah! One of the coolest, most stunt worthy trucks available, the Outcast 4S BLX: www.amainhobbies.com/arrma-outcast-4s-blx-brushless-rtr-1-10-stunt-truck-bronze-ara102692/p-qqzztqtqtzzxactz Sadly, they're always out of stock. I have the feeling Arrma may be discontinuing it. -Brett

[@Macnificent78_]

@@AMain_Hobbies yea they are back order what do you Recommend for the next best due to that one is back ordered I need those wheelies in my life 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@AMain_Hobbies]

@@Macnificent78_ I'd go with the 3S BLX Big Rock or Vorteks, or, go for 6S BLX Outcast. -Brett

[@charlescorente9751]

Can you make a video on how you made the battery discharge light 😆😆

[@beng.6417]

If I have a fully charged battery and decided I'm not going to use it, can I utilize the STORAGE feature on my charger to automatically set it to the appropriate STORAGE charge?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

If you're using a LiPo battery and you have a LiPo Balance Charger with storage mode function, then you should be able to discharge your LiPo using this storage mode function. Will it happen automatically? Probably not. To know how to do it, please read and consult your LiPo Balance Charger instruction manual. -Brett

[@tobydyes]

All battery discharges do not discharge to 3.8

[@chrisjames5823]

👌 so I can't mess up my lipo by discharging through my charger? I don't mind if its slow.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

No, your LiPo should not be harmed. As long as your using a LiPo specific charger, the Discharge and Storage Charge functions are great features to use! -Brett

[@MikeValletti]

I thought you could not over-discharge beyond the batts safe capability or dangerous conditions result. Just b/c you can doesn't mean you should ?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Sorry, I don't understand your question. LiPo's can be safely discharged until around 3.0V a cell; discharging lower than that is unsafe and not recommended. -Brett

[@notrcmaskedmaster4374]

✌🏻😎🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿I use the charger to discharge my batteries. When I actually remember that is. I believe we shouldn’t have to plug in the charger when discharging. Why can’t it use the power from the batteries? It a shame we need to use energy to discharge energy. & a little crazy 🤪

[@AMain_Hobbies]

I don't know exactly, but they probably don't have the necessary parts to achieve this. Look how big that SkyRC BD100 is, it requires many electronic parts to drain a battery quickly. Great question. -Brett

[@troyflanagan4237]

I take it out the balance wire and it works i need a pro to show me or tell me

[@charlesmurray5386]

I didn’t do this and now my battery’s are bubbling up

[@thispointintime]

So I’m genuinely confused on all this.. my regular process is whip around the xmaxx truck til I’m done.. take the batteries out. Charge to full. Wait til next time. But am I suppose to store charge after use instead of fully charge ? Then fully charge later right before I’m ready to go mess around with the truck ?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

But am I suppose to store charge after use instead of fully charge ? >Yes Then fully charge later right before I’m ready to go mess around with the truck? >Yes LiPo batteries are not designed to sit fully charged while not in use. Instead, only fully charge the battery before use. After using them, put them on the charger on the "STORE" mode, which will prepare the battery to be stored away. When you're ready to use the car again at a later time, charge the battery. -Brett

[@thispointintime]

@@AMain_Hobbies thanks brett !! appreciate the response.

[@nardo2354]

Dose the Sky RC BD200 have a function that automatically puts your battery in storage mode ?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

No unfortunately. You manually set the end voltage and it gets to work. If you set the end voltage too low for the battery, the BD200 will discharge the battery below a safe level, so it is important the user sets the voltage correctly. -Brett

[@nardo2354]

AMain Hobbies thanks Brett👍✌️

[@herroldj]

So if I can set the end voltage below safe levels will it discharge damaged lipos to near enough 0 at very low amps. I’ve cooked a few brushie cans running them at full lipo voltage for hours and I’ve been too lazy to pick up 24v friendly bulbs to power

[@KS-wt9gj]

*MATH SCHMATH* Dual element 12 V auto taillight bulb, add alarm set for 3.7. *TA DA* perfect discharge and *ZERO MATH*

[@Jut77]

I new to LiPo Batteries, I have 2s 7.4 5000mAh 100c. After each use are u meant to discharge it then put it into storage charge. Or can u just put it into storage charge. What would the amps be for storage and discharge for this LiPo. Ur videos are 👍 great job.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

After you use the battery, you don't need to discharge it. Just put the battery on the charger and Storage Charge it. You vehicle will do a great job at discharging your battery. -Brett

[@Jut77]

@@AMain_Hobbies Thanks what would the storage amps be for 2s 5000mAh 7.4v 100C

[@rcpatapouf]

My method is : BASH BASH CRASH BASH YET

[@DavidFaxon]

Is this what I would need to fully discharge a 4s battery? I have a d6 duo pro, but how much faster will this be able to retire a battery over a d6 duo pro? Thanks!

[@AMain_Hobbies]

It depends on the discharge capability of your charger, and then what discharger your comparing it to; we talked about more than one discharger in the video. To figure out the discharge capabilities, please follow the instructions outlined in the video. -Brett

[@NiekkieNick]

What if you want to really fully discharge a lipo battery when you want to dispose it? A discharger will always stop at 3,2V p/cell and cuts off. Is this discharger capable of 100% discharging a lipo?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

No, the liability risk to the manufacturer is so great, they would never allow it. We recommend putting the LiPo in a salt bath, as outlined in our ProTek R/C LiPo Manual, under Disposal Procedure at the bottom; check it out: images.amain.com/images/manuals/Li-Poly%20Battery%20Manual.pdf -Brett

[@Crewchief227]

I need one, the other day I needed to discharge batteries, so I put the vehicle on a stand, and cranked my throttle trim until the wheels started moving. Not fast enough to damage hub carriers or bearings, snd it was taking forever. So I just had to keep doing short speed runs till the lipos were at 3.8VDC

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Awh man, that would take forever. Glad to hear you tried to discharge the battery though. -Brett

[@jamesmorton8511]

Okay so we know we should discharge our lipo's for storage but why is this important ?? Why not leave them charged? I know from my limited experience with these batteries that they slowly discharge themselves anyway.

[@junedolim]

Because the materials inside the battery will degrade over time when held at a full charge. This results in a swollen and unsafe lipo. The same thing happens when you over-discharge a lipo.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Joshua Dolim nailed it; the LiPo degrades sitting charged. -Brett

[@cadd9511]

Does this apply to Li-ion batteries as well? If not, what's the proper storage voltage for Li-ion batteries?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Li-ion cells are similar, with a storage voltage about 3.8V/cell. -Brett

[@megadeth1952]

I have the skyrc 200w discharger, but the voltage reading is way off when you set your end voltage

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Our is a little off too but it's not bad. I just compensate for that when setting the end voltage. You like it other than that? -Brett

[@MrZimeir]

great video

[@Just4FunRC]

just got the ISDT FD100 . theres a jack connector on it. do we connect it to pro q6 or do we need the battery check by ISDT, please advice

[@AMain_Hobbies]

You can update the firmware and change some programming features using this: www.amainhobbies.com/isdt-sclinker-charger-firmware-upgrade-usb-interface-cable-isd-usb/p543612 -Brett

[@LuisLPRCs]

Great Info 😎😎😎😎😎😎😎

[@vladimirlopez7840]

You said you set your end voltage to 7.4? I mean isn’t that the fully charged voltage? Should have been 3.8 I think.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

7.4V is the nominal voltage of a 2S LiPo; fully charged would be 8.4V. Setting the discharge to 7.4V would discharge each cell to 3.8V, which is right where they should be for storage. -Brett

[@brandoncleavenger611]

I'm new to the hobby and confused...if anyone could help me it would be awesome...i have a hitech x2 ac plus black edition could anyone help me find out how to discharge a 3 cell on this...according to my calculations it at 0.9 amps...is that bad and how long will it take?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

It is not bad or harmful to the battery at all. That is a perfectly fine, but slow, discharge rate. Just imagine, if your battery probably takes ~45 minutes to charge for example, and that is at a 5 amp charge rate, discharging at 0.9 amp could take hours. That's the meaning behind the message in this video, chargers discharge slowly. Are you using the Storage Mode to discharge? That will bring your cells to the proper and healthy voltage for sitting around idle, regardless if the cells need to be charged or discharged to achieve it. -Brett

[@brandoncleavenger611]

@@AMain_Hobbies is .9 the limit for it tho if it has a limit of 2 amps overall...it has a discharge circuit power rating of 10 watts

[@AMain_Hobbies]

@@brandoncleavenger611 0.9A is probably the limit for that particular battery. It all depends on how big or small the battery is. Your charger will do, "up to" 10 Watts, or 2 Amps, whichever ceiling is hit first. -Brett

[@megadeth1952]

Say you set you discharger to end at 3.85v per cell on a 6s lipo. I have to set the voltage down 22.2v instead of 23.00v for it shut down. Then let the cells rest for a minute to climb up to resting voltage. Other then that it is powerful and fast. Can this be calibrated?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

I don't think it can be calibrated no, but we would have to ask SkyRC to be sure. -Brett

[@bradbozarth1822]

And how long CAN a fully charged lipo sit, is it ok for overnight? I like to charge my batteries at night unplug them and I usually run it the next morning, I don’t have a discharger or even a digital charger.. I should probably just go to the R/c shop

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Yes, sitting overnight is probably ok, unless your battery manufacturer recommends against it, but it should be fine. Try to do it with low frequency. -Brett

[@cobra4439]

By w/v does he mean max out of both or max bolts and total watt hours

[@troyflanagan173]

Yes BRETT I CHARGE MY BATTERY AND THE VOLTAGE IS ALWAYS BALANCED TO 4.20 TO 4.18 IT STARTS OFF AT ORANGE THEN GREEN SLOWS DOWN AND THEN TURNS TO BLUE BEEPS TWICE THEN CHARGER IS CHARGED AFTER 2 BEEPS I WAS DOING EVERYTHING RIGHT SO I THOUGHT MAYBE I DIDN'T LET THE BATTERY COOL DOWN ENOUGH ON THE TRUCK RUN 3 DAYS AGO WILL THE ENGINE OVERHEAT REALLY FAST DRIVING ON GRASS IN THE PARKS OR SHOULD I FIND A BIG PARKING LOT OR SCHOOL YARD WITH LOTS OF CEMENT OR A SKATE BOARD PARKS??

[@troyflanagan173]

JUST DON'T KNOW Enough ABOUT THIS TRUCK BLEW THE ENGINE ON MY RUCKUS. AND IT WAS A BRUSHED MOTOR UNTIL I PUT A BRUSHLESS IN AND 1 COOLING FAN THEN NEVER HAD A PROBLEM AFTER THAT EXCEPT FOR OTHER PROBLEMS ON THE TRUCK AND I CLEANED IT SPOTLESS AFTER EVERY RUN CHEAPLY MADE IN MY OPINION PARTS KEPT ON BREAKING ON THE TRUCK SO I SOLD IT FOR $50 DOLLARS AFTER A WHILE COULD NOT GET WHEELS OFF TO CLEANED THEM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE IT WAS A MONEY PIT AND $400 DOLLARS LESS. THEN THE 1 I HAVE NOW THE 4S KRATON WITH BLX HOT MOTOR AND 5000MAH 14.8 BATTERY STX SPECTRUM RADIO SYSTEM ALL SPECTRUM COMPONENTS.

[@soundwavs1961c]

I read you put the lipo batteries in a bucket with salt water.. ????? This sound crazy to me

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Only when the LiPo is on it's way out. The salt water bath neutralizes any remaining power inside the LiPo, making it safe to be donated to the electronics recycler. -Brett

[@ranadeepmahendra8507]

i have a 3 cell 3300 mah 35c 11.1 v lipo battery.. my second is totally discharged and shows 0v so can i charge that single cell with a B3 imax rc charger? or how should i recover the dead battery cell , i only have the B3 imax rc charger with me.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Unfortunately, if you have a bad cell you need to properly dispose of and recycle the battery. -Brett

[@troyflanagan4237]

WHAT about a 4s Battery plug into a smart charger is it 14.8 volts and 5amps how do i properly charge a smart charger hit the 1 or 2 BUTTON. First or hit the middle button first And spin it to.properly get the Right amps. And volts with the Smart charger Brett cause when i plug it in the 1or 2 holes then plug the prong in beside THE orange plug cause it Error something then i have to start all over Again then i take THE prong that that the orange cord plugs in mext to

[@AMain_Hobbies]

With the Smart battery on the Smart charger, once you plug in both battery connectors, the charger should automatically start the balance charge process. -Brett

[@solidghostz6683]

So once you discharge the lipo you can store it away? Or is there another process

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Correct. If the battery is fully charged, you'll want to bring it's voltage down to "storage charge" values. If you put a charged battery away for the night, or week or months, it's bad for the lipo battery. -Brett

[@deiselgas]

Good if you care about the MAX discharge rate, but didn’t talk about the OPTIMUM discharge rate.

[@mariesvandefliert8533]

Maybe a stupid question. But i am new in this world. Does this do the same thing as using storage mode on my charger?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Yes and No. Storage Mode will restore cell voltage to a safe level for storage. So, Storage Mode will either discharge, or charge the battery, depending on if your battery voltage is too high, or too low. A discharger will only discharge. Hope that makes sense. The dischargers shown in this video discharge must faster than most chargers can do it, so that is their advantage. -Brett

[@MortuMoturi]

I never discharge my lipo batteries, I keep them fully charged and have a few from 2013 and they still work perfect! Some may need to be topped off after a couple of years but I had no problems ever. Running them until there’s no power I think shortens the lifespan. Another gadget to buy?

[@butchmeister80]

My charger is a basic one with no discharge how do I know what’s a safe storage voltage

[@AMain_Hobbies]

The battery manufacturer probably has a recommended storage value, but with LiPo cells, 3.7V - 3.8V a cell, is a good place for them to sit idle and unused. -Brett

[@butchmeister80]

@@AMain_Hobbies yes but the charger just has lights for charging or fully charged I’m just gonna half charge for storage

[@steelgtr]

Storage vs discharge for cycling/ rejuvenating older batteries?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

LiPo's don't need cycling like older battery chemistries did. But leaving them 100% full will harm them which is why we always recommend storage charging them before putting them away for the day. -Brett

[@steelgtr]

They have been properly stored for 8 years and thought they might need a few cycles to wake up better :)@@AMain_Hobbies

[@thomaswalton9089]

Is discharge and storage charge the same thing? I dont understand lipos lol. If i fully charged my battery and dont use it should i discharge it or storage charge

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Good question. The discharge mode will discharge your battery down, draining the power until the desired voltage has been reached. With the storage mode, the charger will either charge or discharge the battery (which ever is needed) until the battery has reached the desired voltage. So with the storage mode, you can put on a fully charged battery or a drained battery, and the charger will know what it needs to do to return the battery to it's optimal state for inactivity, when you store it away. LiPo batteries like to have about 50% power when they're sitting around unused, and the storage mode makes it happen. I can't remember the last time I used the discharge feature on the charger instead of just using the storage mode for the same job. The discharge feature is more useful with other battery chemistries (non-lipo) but it's still there as an option. Hope this makes sense. -Brett

[@thomaswalton9089]

@@AMain_Hobbies thanks bro I really appreciate you taking the time to explain things I have a better understanding of this hobby because of you and you actually respond to your comments much respect to you man I know it's not easy and u r a busy rc superstar lol

[@gottiesteele8006]

Is it a bad thing to take a fully charged lipo Battery and discharge it by running it in storage mode

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Nah. That's what Storage Mode is for. It is slow to discharge a LiPo that way, but it is effective. To make discharging faster, some of the products in this video are ideal. -Brett

[@troyflanagan173]

IS THERE ANYTHING SPECIFIC I HAVE TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHARGING THE BATTERY LIKE I'M TALKING ABOUT THE READINGS ON THE CHARGER AND ALSO THE OWNER OF THE STORE HOBBY SAID I WAS DOING EVERYTHING RIGHT SO I DON'T GET IT UNLESS THE 2 COOLING FANS WERE NOT WORKING PROPERLY OR WORKING AT ALL JUST REALLY BAFFLING TECHNOLOGY I KNOW I HAVE TO SPIN THE WHEEL ON THE CHARGER MAYBE I WAS NOT DOING THAT ENOUGH WHEN CHARGING THE CHARGER LIKE I SAID BEFORE VERY CONFUSING BRETT FAST AND TOUGH. I LOVE IT JUST HAVE TO. HANDS DOWN USED TO THE SYSTEM.

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Troy, I recommend you thoroughly read your Battery Charger Instruction Manual. It provides all the information you need on how to use the charger, how to read the interface, what to be looking out for, and how to properly operate it. -Brett

[@scottmcgrath5547]

so can you discharge at any Rate you want and it wont affect the lipo or do you need to keep it under a certain current depending on the C Rating of the Battery

[@AMain_Hobbies]

Any rate Scott. Few discharge devices will ever draw the same power out of your LiPo like a Brushless R/C car pulling 100A, 160A and up, at peak draw. With the C rating, again, all dischargers will be way lower than the real capabilities of the battery, so I wouldn't worry about it. The exception are the tiny receiver/transmitter LiPo batteries, they shouldn't be discharged at high amps. -Brett

[@bonifaciomagdiwang1697]

I have a brand new battery iits in cell balance storage charge. could i use it now to my 1/10 TRX 4 land rover Difender or should i have to wait fully charged?

[@AMain_Hobbies]

You should fully charge the battery before using it. You technically could use the battery at it's storage charge value, but you'd have very little runtime before it dies because it's not charged. -Brett

[@bonifaciomagdiwang1697]

@@AMain_Hobbies thank you so much

[@troyflanagan173]

SPECTRUM SMART CHARGER IS CONFUSING MY CHARGER FINISHED CHARGING IN 25 MINUTES 4.20 VOLTAGE CAN'T REMEMBER THE AMPS BUTS ITS ON FAST CHARGE IS THAT SAFE BRETT THE TRUCK SEEMS TO RUN OKAY AFTER ITS CHARGED UP AND READY TO RUN JUST REALLY CONFUSING EVEN WATCHING THE VIDEO'S SO I HOPEFULLY I'M NOT DOING ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE VOLTAGE READINGS AND AMPS READINGS THE. BATTERY IS SUPPOSED TO KNOW RIGHT AWAY WHAT VOLTAGE AND AMP READINGS WHERE TO GO TO RIGHT AWAY TO RECHARGE BATTERY FROM BATTERY CHARGER RIGHT BRETT??

[@AMain_Hobbies]

4.20V is the correct voltage for a charged LiPo cell. When I charge, I like to double check that each cell is 4.20V when the battery finishes so I know the battery is being balanced charged properly. -Brett

[@troyflanagan173]

@@AMain_Hobbies Thank you BRETT And WHAT'S A SAFE AMPS LEVEL WHEN FULLY CHARGED BRETT??

[@AMain_Hobbies]

​@@troyflanagan173 Batteries display a voltage not an amperage. The amperage is your charge rate you set in the charger. As your battery gets closer to being fully charged, the charger will slowly lower the amperage. So the amperage may start high, maybe 5A for example, but by the end, it could get down to 0.1A. -Brett

[@ianmaglasang1887]

and why do we need to discharge our battery for??....im a newbie in rc world

[@AMain_Hobbies]

When a fully charged LiPo sits unused it is damaging to the LiPo. A LiPo should rest at about 50% power when unused. -Brett

[@jstins]

Ian Maglasang In my case I’m trying to cycle a brand new 6s 5000mah lipo for an airplane a couple times before putting it in the air. Mainly because it arrived at 17.54v which is too low and I’m trying to make sure the battery is ok. Plus I’m waiting for an adapter so I can’t connect it to my esc yet.

[@leoross8088]

Hey, since my charger indicates the approximate % of charge of my 3s lipo, is it fine if I just stop charging when it’s at about 50%? Then when i want to go out with my RC again I just fully charge it. thanks!

[@AMain_Hobbies]

You should be using the storage charge mode in your charger to properly store the battery so the cell's reach the optimal storage voltage. Doing it any other way is just a guessing game. -Brett

[@leoross8088]

@@AMain_Hobbies oh yeah right, thanks for the quick answer. I just forgot to mention that my charger (spektrum s150) doesn’t have a discharge function so that’s why i was asking. But thanks again, ill see what i can do 👍