Coming back into combat robotics!

This 4s one (same as I have) is only 552g according to Hobbyking! http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store...Lipo_Pack.html

Are you absolutely sure that Lipos are the way to go? I've just been reading the rules and regulations, they seem quite... Risky. I don't know, I could just be being paranoid :)

I did more searching around, and I found actual cordless drill motors now! That's them checked off the list! They come with everything attached, I've even found mounts for them! Today is my lucky day.

They are heavily regulated in the rules, and there are more stable batteries, but in terms of the power for the weight, LiPos seem the way to go - most machines run them now from what I can tell! Maybe they are a bit more messing about in terms of making sure they're safe, but it's worth it for the output you get, or so I'm told!

Use LiPo's in all my feathers. Treat 'em nice and they are the way to go

Okay, so currently on the new parts list is:
2 Turnigy 5000mAh 4S 25C Lipo Packs;
2 BotBitz 85amps.
I have found a transmitter and receiver, so that should be all sorted :) what about the possibility of having pneumatics?

Li-Pos are great as long as you know what you're doing. There's a whole section on here regarding them but in short:

Don't let the voltage drop too low, otherwise you'll permanently damage the pack. Most ESCs have a built in 'Low Voltage cut out' that will turn the ESC off (so not to keep using the battery and an indicator to the operator) that each Li-Po cell has dropped to 3.0-3.2v.

Each cell also needs to be in balance with the others. You'll need a Li-Po charger that also balance charges, this is done via the extra lead on the batteries. Fully charged each cell will be 4.2v, nominal is 3.7v.

Any sign of puncture, rupture or the pack puffing up and it's time to get a new one.

I run a 2.6mah pack in Bitza (with a spinning weapon) It's near empty after a fight, but I just take that as it being 'optimal'. Put it on a fast balance charge after each fight and it's good to go again!

I made a mockup of the drive wiring setup. Have I missed anything important?

Attachment 4135

As for the Lipo charger, would that have to be bought separately, or does it come with the battery itself?
And sorry if this sounds stupid, but what would an ESC be? :S

ESC= Electronic Speed Controler. A Speedo.

The TZ85a 's have a build in BEC=Battery Eliminator Circuit= reciever Power. You'll have to "cut" 1 of BEC's out otherwise you'll get strange results.

You'll have to buy a charger seperatly of the battery. The Imax B6 AC is the basic charger that is a complete package for LiPo's up to 6S

The BEC's the red (middle) wire isn't it?

Regards the charger too, sometimes you have to get your own 12v power supply for it too - I did with my Turnigy one! They're cheap off eBay but just make sure you're aware of that!