DHL131

I have a fiberglass hydro hull about 1/6 scale that I'm going to run on a lake I live on. It's not ever going to compete in any sanctioned events. It is strictly for fun. I want to run an electric set up and need advise on what engine and ESC to use. Looking for fast but nothing insane. Also need battery ideas. Not looking to break the bank. Want something reliable and reasonably priced

Hydro Junkie

Here's what we use in competition 1/8th scale hydroplanes that we race in R/C Unlimiteds:
1) MOTORS

• NEU 1527 1.5Y 850KV
• HET Typhoon 700-98 840KV
• Turnigy SK3-3994 850KV
• TP 4040 10Y 830KV v. TP 4060 6Y 860KV

2) ESCs

• Any ESC may be used as long as it is rated to a minimum 130 Amps and rated to handle a minimum of 8s battery configuration.
• Anti-spark resistors are advised on all speed controllers.

3) BATTERIES

• A maximum capacity of 8S Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries are approved. Only LiPo batteries with a cell rating of 4.20 or less volts per cell are approved. Maximum charged voltage is 33.84 volts. L
• LiHV batteries with per cell capacities to 4.35 volts or higher are not approved

Now, with all of that said, it will leave your boat slightly underpowered when compared to our 1/8 scale boats. Since you're not looking at racing, I don't see where that would be an issue. Just out of curiosity, which lake are you on? The reason I ask is some lakes have rules against running any powered boat on it and it might be something to look at before throwing your boat on the water

ABX131

Lake Sawyer...we allow gas boats but have set speed limit hours. I would have to run during slow time but withbit being " a toy" and not something I'm actually in I can get away with it. That is also why I'm going electric to not draw attention to myself.

Hydro Junkie

Trust me, a hydroplane running at speed will always attract attention.
As far as running on Lake Sawyer, I KNOW you are good to go since I've spent many hours on the shore of that lake

DHL131

Can you recommend any good sites for parts and pieces like skid fins, props and related hardware, radios etc?

Hydro Junkie

That I can do. Some of these I've dealt with while others have good reputations. I use Futaba so I gave the website. You can also go to Tower Hobbies online or Hobby Town USA's local stores if you would rather use Spectrum
Speedmaster speedmaster hardware
Zippkits Welcome to Zippkits!, Model Boat Kits and Accessories!
Accu-Tech Accu-Tech RC Hardware
Offshore Electrics RC Boats by Offshore Electrics
Futaba USA Front Page - FutabaUSA
Props-4-U Props 4 U

DHL131

I looked up those motors, Cant find anything on the Turnigy with that part number anywhere, it appears to be out of production. The NEU is crazy expensive. The HET is available and reasonably priced. The TP's, I cant find the exact 10y or 6y in the 4040/4060 series. ...

Hydro Junkie

I would contact Offshore Electrics and see if they have anything they could recommend as replacements/alternatives to the motors I linked. I, personally, don't do electrics but I'd bet they could come up with something that would work in both the boat and the budget

ABX131

Thank you, will do.