Brushed RC Boat Speed Controller: The Ultimate Guide

By -Kyle Hilson
Posted on November 14, 2023November 15, 2023
Posted in RC Boats

RC boats are exciting and exhilarating, but they require the right components to function properly. One such component is the speed controller, which regulates the motor’s speed. For RC boats with brushed motors, it’s important to choose the right speed controller to optimize performance. A brushed motor uses a metallic brush to transfer power to the motor’s rotating armature. These motors are less expensive and simpler than brushless motors, making them a popular option for those just starting with RC boats. Brushed motor speed controllers work by controlling the flow of electricity to the motor, which in turn controls the boat’s speed. Choosing the right brushed RC boat speed controller can make a significant difference in the boat’s performance, so understanding their features and how to choose the right one is essential. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of brushed RC boat speed controllers, their features, how to choose the right speed controller for a specific boat and motor, and their benefits and installation.

Brushed RC boat speed controllers are electronic devices that regulate the flow of electricity to the brushed motor in an RC boat. They come with multiple features that control the boat’s movement and improve its performance. Here are some essential features of a brushed RC boat speed controller:

Forward and reverse direction control: Allows the operator to drive the boat both forward and backward, making it easier to manage the vessel.
Brake systems: Apply brakes to the motor when the boat slows down or stops. This feature can prevent damage to the motor or boat when the vessel stops abruptly.
Programmable settings: Many brushed speed controllers come with feature settings that can be programmed, such as acceleration and deceleration rates.

There are different types of brushed RC boat speed controllers available in the market from various manufacturers. Hobbyking.com is a popular website where you can purchase brushed RC boat speed controllers from leading brands such as Turnigy and ZTW.

How does a brushed speed controller work?

A brushed speed controller works by varying the voltage on the armature of a brushed motor. This allows for control of the motor’s speed. Some industrial motors can also have their speed controlled by adjusting the strength of the motor field current. For more information on brushed speed controllers and other motor control solutions, check out websites like Digilent or Pololu.

Brushed RC boat speed controllers come with various features that make them ideal for specific applications. Here are some important features that you should look for in a brushed RC boat speed controller:

– Amperage Rating: Determines how much current the controller can handle without overheating or burning out. Choose a controller with a high amperage rating to get the best performance.
– BEC Output: Some brushed RC boat speed controllers come with a built-in battery eliminator circuit (BEC) that provides power to the receiver, making it unnecessary to have a separate battery to power receiver – that means fewer components are needed in the boat.
– Waterproofing: Another essential feature, especially if you plan to use your RC boat in water. Waterproofing protects the controller and other electrical components from water damage.
– Thermal Protection: This feature protects the controller from overheating and burning out the motor.

The above features can contribute to improving the performance and lifespan of your RC boat and speed controller. It is essential to consider your boat’s motor size and battery pack, as well as the size and type of the boat when selecting the right brushless RC boat speed controller. If you’re interested in purchasing a brushed RC boat speed controller, you can check products available on Amazon and eBay websites that offer a broad range of products to choose from.

Are all speed controllers the same?

No, not all speed controllers are the same. There are two styles of Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) – Brushed and Brushless – that operate on the same principle of regulating the power of an electric motor from 0% to 100%. It is important to choose the correct ESC for your motor to ensure optimal performance.

Choosing the right brushed RC boat speed controller is essential to ensure the boat runs smoothly. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a speed controller for your RC boat:

Motor Type and Size: Ensure that the controller you choose is compatible with your motor type and size.
Battery Pack: Choose a controller that can support the number of cells in your battery pack.
Boat Size: Determine the size of your boat and choose a controller that can provide enough power to handle it.
ESC Brakes: Consider choosing an ESC with brake features that can slow down your RC boat.
Waterproofing: If you plan on using your RC boat in water, choose a controller that is waterproofed or comes with a waterproofing case to protect your controller.
Brand Reputation: Some brands are considered more reliable than others. Consider feedback from forums, online reviews, and other users before making a purchase.

When purchasing a brushed RC boat speed controller, consider major online shopping websites such as Amazon, eBay, and Horizon Hobby. These websites offer excellent deals and provide delivery services worldwide. Additionally, some brands such as Traxxas, Spektrum, and Castle Creations offer some of the best-brushed RC boat speed controllers in the market. Do your research before making a purchase to ensure you get the best product and value for your money.

How to choose a brushless motor for RC boat?

When choosing a brushless motor for your RC boat, it’s essential to consider the can size. A 28-29mm can size is suitable for powering most hulls up to 600mm, while a 36mm can size is ideal for boats up to 800mm. If you have a light brushless dedicated or ABS hull up to 1200mm, a 40mm can size motor should suffice. Anything over that, you’ll need a 56-58mm motor. Check out websites like Hobbywing or Castle Creations for high-quality brushless motors for your RC boat.

Benefits of Using a Brushed RC Boat Speed Controller

Using a brushed RC boat speed controller can provide many benefits that make it an essential accessory for every RC boat enthusiast. Here are some of the benefits of using a brushed RC boat speed controller:

Improved Performance: A brushed RC boat speed controller helps provide accurate speed control for better performance and handling, resulting in an improved overall experience while operating the boat.
Longer Motor Lifespan: By controlling the speed and managing the power delivery, you can ensure your motor’s longevity, meaning that it will last much longer than it would without a speed controller.
Prevents Motor Burnout: The speed controller prevents motor burnout by managing the power delivery to the motor, ensuring safe operation and avoiding overheating.
Customization: Many brushed RC boat speed controllers come with programmable settings that allow the user to customize the boat’s performance based on their preferences.

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, using a brushed RC boat speed controller reduces the risk of accidents caused by wayward boats. It also makes it easier for beginners to operate and control their RC boats.

Look for brushed RC boat speed controllers on popular online shopping sites such as Amazon, eBay, and Banggood, where you can find a wide variety of quality controllers at competitive prices. Some of the most popular brands in the market, such as Traxxas, Spektrum, and Castle Creations, offer many options to choose from, depending on your RC boat’s unique requirements.

What are the advantages of using brushed motor?

Brushed motors have a simple configuration and can function without an electronic drive circuit. They are ideal for applications where speed control is not necessary. However, their brushes and commutator are consumable components that need to be replaced on a regular basis.

Installation and Maintenance of a Brushed RC Boat Speed Controller

Installing and maintaining a brushed RC boat speed controller is a straightforward process that should be done with care to avoid damage or accidents. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Installation:

Read the instruction manual carefully to ensure that the controller is properly installed.
Ensure that the battery pack is disconnected before installation.
Connect the positive and negative wires of the ESC to the positive and negative motor terminals.
Connect the throttle control wire to the receiver’s throttle channel.
Ensure all wires are correctly connected before reconnecting the battery pack.

Maintenance:

Keep the speed controller clean and free of dust and debris by using an air blower to remove any buildup on it.
Avoid using the controller in dusty or wet environments to prevent damage or short circuits.
Perform regular checks on controller wiring and connections to prevent loose connections that can cause problems during operation.
Replace any worn-out wires or connectors immediately to avoid damage or accidents.

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully during installation and always use recommended wiring. Avoid high current flow through the controller by selecting an ESC that can handle the current flow of your motor as inadequate amperage can damage the controller. Most companies, including Amazon, offer detailed how-to video instructions and RC forums for help.

In conclusion, taking care of a brushed RC boat speed controller is essential to ensure the performance and longevity of an RC boat. With proper installation and maintenance, an RC boat speed controller will keep your RC boat operating smoothly and safely for an extended period of time.

How do you maintain a brushed RC motor?

To maintain a brushed RC motor, it is important to regularly clean it with a small brush and remove any debris such as dirt or dust. It is also recommended to periodically lubricate the motor with a small amount of silicone oil. For a more comprehensive guide on maintaining brushed RC motors, check out the video tutorial on YouTube by RC Driver featuring tips and tricks on motor maintenance (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZa55-WFkSo).

Conclusion

In conclusion, a brushed RC boat speed controller is an essential component of any RC boat with a brushed motor. It helps regulate the motor speed and control the boat with features like forward and reverse direction control and brake systems. Choosing the right speed controller is critical for the boat’s performance, longevity, and safety. It is also important to maintain the controller with proper installation and regular checks to prevent accidents or damage.

When shopping for a brushed RC boat speed controller, always check the controller’s amp rating, compatibility with the motor, and battery pack size to choose one that matches the boat’s specifications. Several options are available, with many product review blogs, e-commerce sites, and YouTube videos to help with the decision-making process, making it easy for you to find a reliable RC boat speed controller that matches your needs.

Regular maintenance of the controller is also important for its continued performance and safety. Always take care when installing the controller, use recommended wiring, and check for loose connections. Routine checks ensure that your RC boat speed controller lasts for a long time, helping you get more enjoyment out of your RC boat.

In conclusion, a proper brushed RC boat speed controller is essential for smooth running, longer life, and optimal performance of your RC boat. Always remember to take care of your controller, and it will take care of your RC boat.