SubTech Albacore - some questions about controls

[craigf]

I have ordered this kit, and don't really understand how the ballast system is controlled. Since I need to get some more surface RC gear, I'm thinking it would be good to find out in advance... How does the ballast pump reverse; do I need a servo for that? Is it an electronic switch that uses a Rx channel?

And is there any benefit to building the PBU tank inside the ballast tank? I'm told the kit says to build it outside, but inside is apparently OK too, but I'm not sure if I would want to give up any tank volume by building it inside.

Also, how about using a computer "air" radio with the sub, on a surface frequency. That's my plan. No good reason, except that I like the radio. Anybody do this with a 4 or 5 channel Rx? Is it a pain the way you have to operate things because of the way controls are assigned on the Tx for the flight modes? It looks OK with a 7 or more channel Rx for me, you can arrange things a little better.

If you reply, after laughing, bear in mind this is my first sub. Thanks!

[slats]

G'day Craig,
first of all I

G'day Craig,
first of all I don't think many of us will laugh. We all started somewhere in this hobby at some stage. On that point the Subtech Albacore is one of the finest kits a beginner or even a veteran of the hobby could buy. Its great value, you get a lot of bang for your buck.
With your specific questions I am pretty sure Skip Assay who developed the boat may either reply to this post or e-mail you.
All the best
John

[JWLaRue]

Craig,

>>> how about using a

Craig,

>>> how about using a computer "air" radio with the sub, on a surface frequency.

That's exactly what I do. I use a Futaba 8UAF with a surface frequency RF module in it. Works great!

As to the Albacore ballast system, I'm sure that others will chime in with specific detail....but in general the ballast pump is reversible and is controlled by a custom electronics module that Skip developed to run the pump motor (electronic reversing switch). It just hooks up to a channel on your r/c receiver. The ballast system also uses two one-way valves to control the flow of water and air into and out of the ballast tank.

-hope this helps!

Jeff

["horridoh"]

]http://www.subcommittee.com/forum/icon_biggrin.gif

]http://www.subcommittee.com/forum/icon_biggrin.gif[/img]

[subtech]

Hi Craig,

Don't put the PBU

Hi Craig,

Don't put the PBU tank inside the Ballast tank as there is not enough room and it would reduce the ballast tank capacity too much. The PBU is designed to be located in the wet area (just in front of the pressure hull is best) and connects to the ballast tank via a tube into the ballast tank base. (this will be clearer when you see the instructions).

As Jeff says the pump is controlled by a custom made reversing switch (RS-5) that plugs into one of your receiver channels.

If you need any help let me know or contact Mike Shubar at]www.mikessubworks.com[/url]

Regards,
Dave - SubTech UK
Email]sales@rcboats.com[/email]

[yellowdog]

Hi again, Craig. If you

Hi again, Craig. If you get your Sub Tech Albacore in time, bring it to the show. Alot of your questions can and will be answered. The Ontario Sub Club has a lot of heads up members.
Later, Dan

[craigf]

Thanks guys. I'm sure the

[color=#728FCE]Thanks guys. I'm sure the instructions will clarify things, really I'm asking now because I'm trying to sort out my radio gear and acquire what else I need while it's "on sale" locally. I noticed an electronic reversing switch on the SubTech site but didn't know if it comes with the kit or is what's normally used with the stock ballast pump.

I did not get the Deluxe kit with radio, I got the one with APC-4 and ST-10, and added the PBU. Re the PBU tank]

[craigf]

Answering myself re the Rx]

[color=#000080]Answering myself re the Rx]