Only after purchasing the Futaba 5000 did I
realize all the info that can be attained with this charger. I
initially purchased it for its charging and discharging of high cell
count packs, up to 40 cells. After playing with it I found its great
for testing individual cells in a side by side configured packs.
Since most of my packs are now configured as stick packs, it makes
it difficult to get the testing leads in-between the cells to test
them. So I figured I needed a charge tray to test loose cells before
I made packs.
I started by buying a Team Cobra Battery Discharge
tray. I removed all the ceramic resistors that normally discharge
the individual cells at a low rate.
As an option futaba sells a thermal tray to test the
heat in the pack and the charge displays the info on the charge
graphs. This isn't really needed to test cell voltage, but I thought
it would be a cool addition to my project.
I took the thermal tray apart and used a dremel tool
with a roto bit to carefully cut out the thermal senor. Futaba hides
the screws for to take the cover off under the rubber feet of the
tray.
I than removed the circuit board and sensor from the
try.
To charge the cells they need to be charged in
series. But the charger has the test leads to monitor the individual
cells(more on this later). So I soldered deans bars to the charge
tray as if i was making a side by side 6 cell battery pack.
Flipping over the tray the resistors are now removed
and its time to install the senor. I cut a small square hole in the
center of tray than used ca to temporary glue it in place.
Next was to install the CDR-5000 test leads. I cut
off the alligator clips and ran the wires under the charge tray.
Drilling holes where I needed the test leads to come threw to the
top of the tray. Following the Futaba wiring directions I soldered
the individual lead to the deans bar, where it would normally go on
a premade 6 cell pack.
This is the completed unit. So far after about 2
weeks testing, its working great.
