EdMan,

breaking the motor in by drowning it in water does a few things. First it gets the carbon dust away from the armature and out of the mica. Second it provides a small load to keep the amp draw up enough to help the brushes seat in quickly. It also keeps the motor cool and keeps brush arcing to a minimum during seating.

When the water no longer gets carbon particulate, the brushes are seated in to the commutator. After a few runs in the plane you should see the armature get a medium brown (like caramel). This film is very desirable and this is the point maximum efficiency is developed.

I paid less than $30.00 for my Zagi speed controller. That is why I picked it. It just happens to be a pretty decent ESC.

Best of luck!

Scott H.