Second significant mod on the Henlong Merkava

[YYCADM]

Actually, two mods. One fully completed, and the second well on it's way.

The completed mod; replacing the OEM smoke module. The original failed within a few hours. The case containing the heating element completely melted through; I was lucky to notice it before something caught fire.

I found a Henlong metal unit compatible with the 7.0 board at Twinhorse for a good price. I mounted the tank midline in the hull, between the board an battery compartment, and the air pump across the chassis beneath the on/off switch.

I wanted to try pure vegetable glycerin, since it generates more smoke than propylene glycol. It is a thicker consistency, though, so I mixed it 70% VG & 30% PG, and inserted a small foam spacer in the tank, under the batting. My thought was with better contact, the VG/PG mix would perhaps give the wick a better medium to work in.

With two output ports to work with, and only a single exhaust outlet, I had to get creative. I drilled a second hole behind the side exhaust grill, mounted a length of brass tubing, and attached the second outflow below the first, concealed behind the exterior mesh cover.

I must say, I'm pleased with the volume of smoke it produces; no more of those wispy little tendrils that were barely visible; With a bit of tinkring, I think it could even generate a convincing smoke screen. With the ability to push more airflow, and less restriction for the outflow, there is good potential.

The second, as yet only partially complete, is installing a searchlight. I had an LED self-contained light engine, in a perfect form factor. It has truly blinding output; 1100 lumen. It's a 9V system, so I'll be installing a stand-alone switch to activate it. Once complete, it will make night operations viable

[Herr Dr. Professor]

I would guess that the original HengLong smoke had unit fluid in it. Do you have any photos of these modifications? They certainly are interesting, and, indeed, if your separate, 9-volt smoke system can be maintained and fit in a tank, a smoke screen would be fun. I am eager to see what the electronics wizards here on RCTW think of the idea.