RE: Battery maintainance?
Don,
for two years now I use this one: [link=http://www.multiplexusa.com/RC-comp/Chargers/LN-5014.htm]Multiplex 5014[/link]
perfect, read the specs,
Charge/ Discharge Nicad and NiMH, auto stop when battery is full, no timers needed etc. , simple to handle (four small buttons)
With this one you don't have to know about battery's: connect, switch on and walk away fully charged the next day!!
Can not do without it, it is small and not that expensive,
Frank