Hi all,

The rechargeable R/C batteries in my Accucraft Garratt seem to be nearing the end of their lives. I find that after an overnight charge they are good for one full run and after about half the second run, things get decidedly jerky. The R/C receiver and batteries are inside the water tank ahead of the smokebox - can anyone tell me how to get into it?

Martin 

Hi Martin,

While I can't help you with the actual battery swap, I wonder how hot it gets inside that water tank... Most rechargeable batteries have a reduced life span as their operating temperature increases. Higher temperatures also increase the batteries' self discharge.

If you are using NiMH batteries, they generate a lot of heat while charging (temperatures up to 45C/113F are "normal"): good air circulation is recomended during charge to keep the temperature under control. Most properly designed battery packs and chargers will measure the temperature and stop charging if it gets too high.

My point is once you get the battery out of the engine, try charging it and see if helps. 

Hi,

Thanks both of you, that looks just the kind of help I need, I'll have a look this weekend and let you know how I get on .

All the best,

Martin 

Hi all,

Thanks to your information I was able to find my way into the Garret on Saturday. The problem was immediately clear, one of the four batteries was dead and refused to charge. I changed all four anyway (I don't want to have to go in there too often!), reassembled the water tank and steamed her. She ran very freely with no noticeable glitches at all so many thanks for your help.

All the best,

Martin.