Welcome to the www.remote-island.co.uk perperation guide. It is highly recommended you read this guide before using your RC boat.
Introduction
The popularity of RC boats is growing daily. This is largely due to the fact that there are a large variety of RC boats available for all levels. The quality of today’s ready to go RC boats are better than they have ever been! Our radio controlled ready to run boats include everything you need to get going. It is recommended that you read the following key do's & dont's which will allow you to enjoy the experience a little bit more!
Charging The Battery
There can often be confusion over the length of time a battery should be charged. More batteries are damaged by bad charging methods than all other causes combined. Click here for our comprehensive RC battery guide.
Initial Preparation
All of our RC boats come ready to run. This means you simply take the RC model boat out of the box, charge the batteries and you’re ready to go. However, there are a number of recommended steps you should take to preserve the life of the model. It is a known fact that water and electrics do not mix. Our electric RC speed boats arrive factory sealed but it is worth keeping in mind that water can and will penetrate the smallest areas or openings. An example of this could be a battery hatch that is not closed correctly or a tiny opening in the seal that has developed due to normal wear and tear over time. In slow moving RC boats these types of problems will not damage your model. However, in fast moving RC speed boats which throw a lot of spray this could cause damage to the model.
Your first task if you have purchased an RC speed boat after your battery has been installed will be to tape the battery hatch (and any other seals) closed. There are a number of readymade products on the market which are sold for this purpose. However, clear tape or PVC (electrical) tape will be fine. At this stage if you feel it will be beneficial you can also place an electrical components within the hull inside balloons. This will protect your RC boat in the case of accidental water intake. Once sealed, place your RC boat in the water and you are ready to move onto the pre-use checks.
Pre-use Checks
The pre-use checks are mandatory for any RC model and preserve the longevity of the model as well as product safety. Pre-use checks should be carried out each time the model is used and encompass the following:
- Floatation Check - Place the RC boat into the water with the power off. Check the model sits correctly in the water and does not list to either side. After thirty seconds remove the model from the water and check that no water has entered the hull. Seal the boat as described above and move onto the next check.
- Check Motor / Servo Operation - Check the inputs from the transmitter match the expected control movements of the model.
- Range Check - Check the inputs from the transmitter match the expected control movements of the model from range i.e. 100m away.
- Visual Inspection - Visually inspect the model for any defects which would be detrimental to its performance eg. Does the model have any cracks in the hull.
Following this guide will provide you many happy hours with your RC boat(s). Happy boating!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION - Many RC boats have a safety feature which prevents them from working outside of water. This safety features are in place to prevent the propellers spinning whilst your hands could be in close proximity. When placing an RC boat in water please make sure your hands are away from the propellers.
