1. Q - How does water cooling work in an R/C model boat and what is the proper place to mount or plumb the water intake and exit?
A - As for "plumbing" the water pick up (intake), mount the "pick up" in the rear of the hull near the center (if possible, depends on hull type) there is a tremendous amount of pressure created by just driving the boat forward through the water. Enough pressure to drive water up and thru the engine or motors cooling coil. Cool hua? Note: some drive systems have a small pick up tube mounted in the water stream (see picture) from the prop. This is great if it is incorporated into the drive strut, otherwise don’t bother trying to “rig” something similar, it’s not necessary. Just buy and mount the Octura water pick up & exit kit.
As for plumbing the water's exit I just put the exit as close to the motor’s cooling outlet to keep the silicon tubing short (as possible) and plumb it out the side of the boat near the hulls seam (mid point in the hull). This way you can see the water streaming out as you drive to confirm water is flowing thru the system. View an installation on a Traxxas Villain boat
2. Q - Of the boats you sell, could you list the boats fastest to slowest?
A - All the boats we sell are fairly fast and will provide the average modeler a ton of FUN. However, your question is a good one.
The order is as follows: NOTE - each boat listed is only slightly faster than the next, the kit you choose should be done with consideration to best suit the type of model boating you intend to do and run time desired. Read more about hull types here.Electric (the order is for un-modified "out of the box" stock model boats)
Nitro (the order is for un-modified "out of the box" stock boats)
3. Q - What do I need to get started?
A - An Electric boat is your best choice for a first time model boater. They are both easy to build and maintain. For instance to build and run an Electric boat the main items needed are:
You can expect an entry level Electric R/C model boat with everything you need to run will cost about $270. More details
4. Q - Which boat is a better boat for a first timer?
A - The Triton Cat and the Electro Vee are both good boat kits for the 1st time R/C modeler. They both have almost identical drive trains (i.e. steering strut style). The only exception is the Triton Cat has dual motors and the Electro Vee is a high quality single motor driving the same style driveline to the prop. Both single & dual motor designs have their pros and cons. For instance the Triton requires 2 batteries, one to power each motor. But this greater power and torque can also drive a bigger prop. Please try to understand the “art” of model boating is the careful balance of the biggest prop possible at super high RPM. This is a tough balance because, typically big props will get the boat going fast “off the line” but don’t want to spin fast (requires a lot of power). I hope that makes sense… Technically speaking the Cat has less drag in the water than the Deep Vee and ultimately will be the faster more efficient boat. I also like how stable the Catamarans are on the water, very predictable! However, in stock form the boats both have about the same top speed, which is enough to have a lot of fun!
5. Q - Can I custom paint any boat kit?
A - Yes, regardless if the boats hull is ABS plastic or fiberglass. It will require special primer, paint & clear to really do it right. Graphics and other stickers can be put on in vinyl and then cleared over. Doing this will also properly seal the ABS hull and make it last MUCH longer. Doing this will also "fuel proof" the hull, leaving you the option to later put in a Nitro engine if you ever decide you want to go that route…
6. Q - I want to upgrade from the stock mechanical speed control, what do you recommend?
A - We recommend the Jeti 600N water cooled Electronic Speed Control (ESC).
7. Q - Can you make any recommendations on a prop for the Traxxas Nitro Vee?
A - Yes, you need the Octura OCGCSS Conversion shaft 2-3/4" with a X440 or Y536 prop. This will cost about $30 total.
8. Q - Do you know of a way to install a tuned pipe on a Traxxas Nitro Vee?
A - Yes, CVEC now makes a compact pipe that works great on boats. It requires a header or manifold to complete the installation. You can order this pipe from us here at FunRCBoats.
9. Q - Can you run most R/C boats in Marine or Salt water, and are there specific types of R/C boats for salt water ?
A - Yes, you can run R/C boats in Salt water provided a few things:
1) You completely rinse the boat hull and cooling system with fresh water immediately after running.
2) Salt water running conditions usually involve rougher running conditions. For the most "fun" choose Catamaran or Deep Vee type hulls for cutting through those swells or waves.
3) Stay away from natural growth. Weeds or sea weed can stall or stop a prop dead. If your boat becomes impaired in the wrong spot it could be trouble.
4) Fill all empty space with spray in foam. Increase the boats flotation for best chances of recovery after a crash or being swallowed by a wave.
10. Q - Why does my nitro engine die after I launch my boat in the water ?
A - Check for the following conditions:
1) Water splashing up and covering the exhaust exit momentarily (move higher and cut at a 45 degree angle).
2) Too much drag in the drive line (lube or replace shaft, bearings, joints or prop is to big).
3) Low engine compression (due to a scored piston or cylinder, replace).
4) Old fuel (in tank or lines, replace with fresh fuel).
5) Pin hole in one of the fuel lines (sucking air or improperly pressurizing the tank and system).
11. Q - I have an O.S. Max .65 and it only has one needle adjustment. I can see a bit of smoke out the tuned pipe and it has good throttle response. When I drop it in and jam the throttle, it accelerates revving a little high, and then catches and takes off. Is this O.K.? It makes a smooth sound when running but I want to know how to tell if I can lean it out more?
A - No it's not O.K. The prop is cavitating and the engine is gaining RPM without a load. This can damage the engine due to over-revving. My suggestion is to put in a heavier flywheel or grab the throttle more slowly, so the prop doesn't cavitate. The smoke (white) means the engine is already running lean. Remember the low end air screw on the side of the carburetor. This can be adjusted to be a little more "rich" to help compensate for the over-revving condition of the motor.
12. Q - Do the boat kits on this site come assembled or do I have to put the boat together myself?
A - All the boats we sell are available both ways, in a kit or fully assembled. Please contact us for custom quote for the boat configuration you would like.
13. Q - Who makes the reusable clamps tuned pipe clamps shown on this site?
A - Those are made by Prather and can be purchased directly from us.
Got a question of your own? Contact us at tp@funrcboats.com