Solar Controller Battery Terminal

[CenturiKid]

I'm trying to restore an Estes Solar Controller that had some very bad corrosion in it. When I tried to remove one of the forward battery clips, it snapped in half, and there was so much corrosion/rust it's not repairable. Does anyone know if these types of clips are available? Has anyone run into this before...and if so; how did your repair? Thanks!

 

[CenturiKid]

The part that was damaged is "Steel Contact BC-3" in the manual. I can't get my camera to focus to snap a picture.

 

[BEC]

If I were trying to do this I think I'd be making a replacement part from sheet brass from the K&S rack at the hobby shop.....

My Solar controller had a similar problem, but fortunately not to that degree....

 

[CenturiKid]

Thanks BEC. I might try that- i wonder how well the brass will hold the shape? I was hoping to salvage the contact but it was just too rusted. The plastics are in great shape; but this one must have been in a damp place because all the steel was very rusted. The rest I was able to save- this contact was by far in the worst condition.

 

[CenturiKid]

Turns out that the plastic where the contacts mounted was cracked as well. There is no way that it could support the pressure of the AAs. I was about to put this controller into the parts bin, but then I had an idea. A 9v battery fit in the battery space; and I had some spare 9v snap connectors. I wired this up and swapped out the light bulb for an LED. I know the 9v isn't ideal for ignitors, but now the controller is usable and will live on to launch again. I'm really happy it was able to be salvaged!

 

[BEC]

Sounds good. The 9V battery will work - that's what the little Quest launch controller uses - just don't expect too many launches per battery.