Dual Batteries in 1/16 Models
Article #86613
Using Dual Batteries in Your Traxxas 1/16-Scale Model If
your model is equipped with an XL-2.5 Speed Control and Titan 550 or
380 motor, DO NOT use dual batteries with the #3063 Series Connector.
Dual Batteries may be used ONLY with the #3064 Parallel Connector. 
If
your model is equipped with a VXL-3m Speed Control and Velineon 380
motor, you may use dual batteries with the #3063 Series Connector or the
#3064 Parallel Connector. 
Traxxas
1/16–scale models only require one battery for operation, but the
chassis features two battery compartments, allowing a second battery to
be installed. Dual batteries may be connected in series for additional voltage and speed (using the #3063 Series Connector), or in parallel for increased capacity and run-time
(using the #3064 Parallel Connector). In this article, we'll explain
what "series" and "parallel" mean, and detail the benefits and effects
of connecting batteries in series and in parallel. Capacity and Voltage
The
two essential characteristics of a battery are its voltage and its
capacity. Capacity is measured in milliamp hours, and it's usually
displayed as a big number on the battery's label: 1200mAh, 2400mAh,
5000mAh, etc. The higher the capacity, the more run time you'll get from
the pack. Think of capacity as your vehicle's "gas tank." You can run
longer with a 10-gallon tank than with a 5-gallon tank, and you can run
longer with a 10,000mAh battery than you can with a 5000mAh battery. Voltage
is determined by the number of cells in the pack. For NiMh packs, 6 and
7 cell packs are the most common. Each cell produces 1.2 volts. A
6-cell pack is 7.2 volts (1.2 x 6 = 7.2), and a 7-cell pack is 8.4 volts
(7 x 1.2 = 8.4). Traxxas Power Cell LiPo packs are either 2-cell or
3-cell. Each LiPo cell is rated for 3.7 volts, so a 2-Cell pack delivers
7.4 volts (2 X 3.7 = 7.4) and a 3-Cell pack provides 11.1 volts (3 X
3.7 = 11.1). The more voltage your pack has, the faster your motor will
turn, and the faster your vehicle will go. Now that you
understand capacity and voltage, it's time to learn how we can increase
each by using a Series Connector or Parallel Connector. 
Parallel Connection = Increased Capacity = Longer Run-Time
The illustration above left shows two Traxxas 1200mAh Power Cell 7.2
volt batteries connected in parallel. Note that both positive battery
leads (in red)attach to the positive terminal on the connector that
leads to the speed control, and both negative battery leads (in black)
attach to the connector's negative terminal. When assembled in parallel,
the combined packs will still have an output of 7.2 volts, but their
total capacity will be 2400mAh (1200mAh X 2 = 2400mAh). Your vehicle
will not be any faster, but its run-time will nearly double. All Traxxas 1/16 models can be operated with dual batteries and the #3064 Parallel Connector. Series Connection = Increased Voltage = Higher Speeds
The
illustration above right shows two Traxxas 1200mAh Power Cell 7.2 volt
batteries connected in series. Note that the negative (black) lead of
the pack on the right is connected to the positive (red) lead of the
pack on the right. When assembled in series, the voltage of the
batteries is combined, but capacity is unchanged. In the example
illustration, the combined packs will still have 1200mAh capacity, but
their total voltage will be 14.4 volts (7.2 volts X 2 = 14.4 volts).
Your run time will not increase, but your vehicle's speed will nearly
double (as long as its speed control is rated to handle the extra
voltage). Dual batteries connected in series using the #3063 Series Connector may ONLY be used in Traxxas' VXL brushless 1/16 models. If your model is equipped with an XL-2.5 Speed Control and Titan 550 or 380 motor, DO NOT use dual batteries with the #3063 Series Connector. Dual Batteries may be used ONLY with the #3064 Parallel Connector.
If your model is equipped with a VXL-3m Speed Control and Velineon 380 motor, you may use dual batteries with the #3063 Series Connector or the #3064 Parallel Connector. Using Packs Connected in Series and Parallel in Your Traxxas 1/16 Model
Traxxas
offers the #3063 Series Connector for use in our 1/16 VXL models ONLY.
The series connector is NOT for use in brushed 1/16 models because those
models use the XL-2.5 speed control, which is rated for a maximum
voltage of 8 cells (9.6 volts). Operating your 1/16 brushed model with
two packs connected in series will overload the speed control and void
its warranty. The VXL-3m speed control included in our 1/16 VXL models
is rated for up to 14.4 volts (12 NiMH cells or 3S LiPo) and can be
operated with two Power Cell 1200mAh NiMH packs connected in series. The
#3064 Parallel Connector may be used in any of our 1/16 models, both
brushed and brushless. Whether you choose to use a Parallel Connector
for more run time, or a Series Connector for more speed, make sure you
follow these guidelines: • Install appropriate gearing.
Consult your vehicle's manual and follow the gearing recommendations
for dual-battery operation. Your manual may include information about
installing a larger pinion for high-speed operation. Use this gearing
ONLY for high-speed running on hard, smooth surfaces. Avoid repetitive
hard acceleration to prevent overstressing the motor, speed control, and
batteries. • Monitor temperature.
When operating your model with two batteries, be careful to monitor the
temperature of the speed control and motor to prevent overheating. Stop
running your model and allow it to cool if the speed control's thermal
overload protection activates or if the motor temperature exceeds 200°
F. The Traxxas #4091 Temperature Gauge is a helpful accessory for monitoring motor temperature. • Additional weight affects handling.
The extra weight of the second battery pack and connector will alter
your vehicle's handling. On-road models actually handle better with dual
batteries, as the extra weight improves traction and balance. Off-road
models driven in rough conditions will benefit from stiffer springs, as
the additional battery weight may cause the suspension to bottom out
over harsh bumps and jump landings. Optional stiffer springs are shown
in bold in the parts list included with your vehicle. Parts lists can
also be found by visiting your model's page at Traxxas.com and clicking
"Downloads." Using Dual LiPo Batteries in Your Traxxas 1/16 Model
Traxxas 1/16 VXL models equipped with the VXL-3m speed control can be
used with the #2820 2-Cell and #2823 3-Cell Power Cell Lipo batteries.
You must activate Low Voltage Detection before
installing LiPo batteries in your model. LiPo batteries may be
installed in a dual-battery configuration with the #3064 Parallel
Connector ONLY. DO NOT use the series
connector with LiPo batteries. Installing LiPo packs in series in your
model will overload the speed control and cause permanent damage. If you
choose to install dual LiPo batteries in your model, it is suggested
that you install a pinion that is two teeth smaller than stock to help
prevent excessive heating due to the extended run time you will
experience with dual LiPo batteries. Traxxas 1/16 models equipped with the XL-2.5 speed control do not feature Low Voltage Detection and should not be operated with LiPo batteries. If you have further questions about operating your model with dual batteries, call 888-TRAXXAS or email support@traxxas.com.
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