High HP Dual DC Motor Controller Suggestions?

Hi - I’m wanting to build a heavy duty tracked remote control vehicle. Heavy duty as in, I expect the finished unit to weigh in around 400lbs+ and be able to carry a person.

For a rough idea of the finished concept search for “Safari-880T”.

I’ll utilize two motors to be able to provide caterpillar style steering. I’ve purchased a couple Manta DC motors that generate 10HP each at 48V, although I’m thinking I can get by with considerably less - I’ll likely run it at 12V or 24V - even 3HP each should be plenty I think. I also have 3:1 ratio gearboxes to step down the motor speed / increase torque. (If it’s underpowered / not fast enough at 12V, then I’ll add a battery and increase the voltage.)
My motor specs: https://www.hydrogenappliances.com/mantaold.html

As such, I want a 12-48V motor controller with reverse that can handle 2 x 150A. And then ultimately that will support control hardware that I can setup with a remote control, with two variable speed joysticks - one stick for each motor. Press both forward, goes forward. Press both backwards, goes backwards. (at variable speeds) Press one forwards and one backwards, and it turns around, etc.

I found this unit, which seems to fit my requirements… but perhaps it’s overkill or not sufficient?

Any thoughts / suggestions on control hardware?

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Hi @Ben_in_CA and welcome to our forum!

You really have a great project :slight_smile:

Going through our DC motor controllers comparison sheet (https://www.robotshop.com/en/comparison-dc-motor-controllers.html), it seems that you made a good choice. MCP2166 will suit your needs.

Only other brushed DC motor controller that could take those voltages and amperages is this one: https://www.robotshop.com/en/roboteq-gdc3660-60v-3x180a-brushed-dc-motor-controller.html

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@Ben_in_CA
I know a guy who used one of these Etek motors to drive his Piaggio APE 50.
…and it was a rocket :smiley:

Don’t get cheap on batteries! Lead-Acid starter batteries won’t survive long.
Have fun
o_lampe

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Thanks for the replies!

I’ll probably start with deep cycle lead acid Marine / RV batteries (or golf cart batteries in series) - unless you’re aware of somewhere to obtain large 12V lithium ion batteries fairly affordably.

If I were go with the MCP2166, any suggestions (or relevant articles you’re aware of) that would outline what I would need to add an RC receiver?

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Hi @Ben_in_CA!

Please refer to page 33 of this manual: https://downloads.basicmicro.com/docs/mcp_user_manual.pdf

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Thanks @igor_X - that was quick!

Any recommendations for RC hardware? I admit I’m a total Newbie when it comes to a project like this.

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You are welcome!

Have a look at these for example:



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I’d look for an RC with failsafe receiver. At signal loss it sets the servos to predefined positions.

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Sounds good!
Lithium battery only makes sense when used regularly.

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