BATTERIES & MAINTENANCE

Prepare reliable power, reduce drivetrain loss and keep the car race-safe.

SECTION 01

Battery rules and handling

→Use matched AA alkaline or NiMH cells with intact original labels and wrapping.
→Do not mix battery types, capacities, ages or charge states in one car.
→Charge NiMH cells with a charger designed for NiMH chemistry and follow the cell manufacturer’s limits.
→Lithium cells and rewrapped or damaged batteries are prohibited.

SECTION 02

→Remove hair, dust and rubber debris from axles, gears and rollers.
→Clean battery terminals gently and replace distorted terminals rather than over-bending them.
→Inspect pinion, crown and counter gears for cracks and uneven wear.
→Use very small amounts of appropriate lubricant at manual-specified points only.
→Check screw tightness, locknuts, wheel security and body catches before every race.

SECTION 03

→Test with a known matched battery pair.
→Spin each wheel and roller separately to find binding.
→Check shaft straightness, wheel rub, gear mesh and terminal contact.
→Compare motor temperature after a short run. Excess heat often indicates load or friction.

BEFORE RACE DAY

Setup advice does not override the rulebook. Check the detailed class page and present uncertain configurations before official inspection.