Running solenoids wet

[Rogue Sub]

We run motors wet.
Batterys wet.
I figure why not solenoids.

Any coments on this one guys. I am going to try it out and hope that it doesnt fail and sink my ship!!!

[tmsmalley]

Be prepared to replace them

Be prepared to replace them each season.

In my first homebrew Propel system I had in my Hunley, the tank vent solenoid started to arc after about a year.

It made for an exiting couple of minutes at the SubVets convention in Duluth, MN when smoke started to pour out of the hull!

Tim

[Rogue Sub]

LOL thats funny my last

LOL thats funny my last solenoid just did the same thing and it was essesialy water proofed. Perhaps I will order a few extra or consider an new setup.

[subdude]

yep

Been running solenoids in the wet for many years. Works great. May I respectfully suggest that you consider using WATERPROOF solenoids?

Jim

[Rogue Sub]

By all means make any

By all means make any suggestions that you like.

I only ask that you help direct me tword your suggestion, as I have no idea where to find them!

Kevin

[subdude]

Hi Kevin,

Like many good submarine

Hi Kevin,

Like many good submarine supplies, they can be found at http://www.mcmaster.com/

Search for solenoid, you'll have lots of choices. I like the 69905K2 12v one.

Good luck!

Jim

[Rogue Sub]

appreciate it
any idea where you

appreciate it
any idea where you can get a 6vdc one
all of my boats run on 7.2vdc

[KevinMC]

For what it's worth, I

For what it's worth, I have an app where I need to run some solenoids in the wet. Is there anything in particular that's been found to work to extend the life of a non-waterproof solenoid? (Waterproofing techniques?)

[Guest]

This fella in Germany sells

This fella in Germany sells surplus solenoids designed for venting tanks etc. from time to time-

http://www.respotec.de/shop/start.htm?m ... ventil.htm

They look like they're well suited to be waterproofed with a bit of RTV silicone.

Sells lots of other goodies for model subamriners too.

Andy

[Rogue Sub]

I have tried taking solenoids

I have tried taking solenoids and covering them with rtv and a flexible boot to waterproof. It did well for about a year then it set on fire. It eventually formed a leak and began taking in water which could not then also drain out. I have also noticed a problem that they act like the pitson in a car. Once you seal it up, one end has no where for the air to go once retacted and it drops the strength of the solenoid considerably.