New battery for an old Panther

[Maarten Schutjes]

After years of service, the 3 batteries of the old 1/6 Panther needed to be replaced. So I decided to use the opportunity to switch to LiFePO. So in stead of using 2x12v for 24 volt and 1x12 volt for 12 volt, I went for 1 x 24volt LiFePo and 1 24/12 converter. It saves a lot of weight and enhances the drive time.

While removing the batteries I found that one was starting to crack. So I consider myself very lucky to have discovered that in time.

I did not rewire everything so the layout is not as neat as it was before. The original layout was done by Mr. Wignall for a previous owner.

Old situation


New situation


Cracked battery


I also replaced the old floor mat with a new rubber mat

[Peter Silcock]

That is strange damage to the battery- never seen this before. I wonder whether the crack is a result of chemical or physical damage. Like the new set up. Can I ask what specification the 24v/12v converter is? With the new set up do you not get feedback through the speakers?

[Maarten Schutjes]

Hi Peter,

I discovered that it's a pressure crack. The battery was tightly strapped on a wooden block that was shorter than the physical size of the battery.

I do no experience any feedback through the speakers.

I used this converter (5 amp)

Between the converter and e the battery I added a power switch. Otherwise the converter very slowly drains the battery when the tanks is not used.

[Peter Silcock]

Thanks Maarten that's interesting about the battery and the converter.