Water Ingress into Electronics BoxUpdated 2 hours ago
This article explains how to prevent water ingress, what to do if water enters your Electronics Box, and how to correctly use dielectric grease to protect your electrical connectors from corrosion.
Water Entered My Electronics Box
If water enters the battery compartment, don't panic.
The Gen 2 and Fusion electronics are fully sealed.
The only components that require attention are the electrical connectors and the battery.
If Salt Water Entered the Unit
- Remove the battery.
- Drain all water from the unit.
- Rinse the battery compartment thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt residue.
- Allow the unit to drain and dry.
- Dry the battery connector.
- If the battery terminal is free of corrosion, reapply dielectric grease to the battery terminals.
- Reinstall the battery once dry.
Removing salt is the most important step, as salt accelerates corrosion.
Important: If there is damage to the battery heat shrink or outer shell - do not use the battery or attempt to charge it. Reach out to [email protected] with clear, detailed photos so we can assess the battery.
If Fresh Water Entered the Unit
Fresh water is much less of a concern.
Simply:
- Drain the water.
- Dry the compartment.
- Reapply dielectric grease to the connectors.
- Reinstall the battery.
Preventing Water Ingress
If you repeatedly find water inside your Gen2 or Fusion unit, check the following:
- The nose cone O-ring is correctly installed.
- The O-ring is clean and free from sand or debris.
- The battery latches are undamaged and fully closed.
- Your board is sufficiently rigid.
Some boards flex significantly under load. Excessive board flex can momentarily reduce sealing pressure around the nose cone during pumping or hard landings, allowing small amounts of water to enter.
If this occurs, inspect your setup and ensure all sealing surfaces are clean and correctly assembled.
Using Dielectric Grease
Applying dielectric grease correctly is one of the best ways to protect your system.
The grease protects:
- Battery terminals
- Motor connectors
- Internal power contacts if water enters the unit
Only use Foil Drive dielectric grease. Other products may affect electrical performance or connector reliability.
How Much Grease Should I Use?
You do not need excessive amounts.
Apply:
- A light coating around the circumference of the plug on your battery and motor cables
- A light coating on the O-ring
Avoid applying grease across the terminals, as excessive grease can affect electrical contact.