Radio help

[butchg]

Was wondering if it is best to go with an FM radio or is a good AM good enough for use in my gas boat?

[Doubledog]

I'm shopping for another one myself.

The FM freq is less prone to outside interferrance (sp) where as the AM is more prone to get slammed. Hoping of course that some of the other guys will chime in on this, due to my lack of wording.

Personal experience: I've got a HiTec FM surface radio thats a joy. Though stick type, I like it. But with the FM freq, haven't had any trouble to this point.

Pick up the latest copy of Radio Control Boat Modeler or search their site here. They recently did a test on the better brands of PCM radios.

One more thing, invest in a failsafe if you haven't already.

Happy Running.

[Hydro Junkie]

Having been involved with radio problems with gas motors, I would recommend an FMPCM, if at all possible. Gas motors use a standard spark ignition system, which unfortunately creates interference. An AM radio is VERY likely to get static hits from the engine ignition system, causing glitching. An FM radio, if placed too close to the engine(less than 12 inches, per the FUTABA website) will also experience glitching. An FMPCM uses pulse codes for sending and receiving commands, making it much less likely to be interfered with by the engine "noise". If your boat is big enough to keep the radio at least 12 inches from the engine, you will PROBABLY be okay with an FM radio. If not, I recommend playing it safe with the PCM type radio. To be even safer, try to use nonconductive pushrods between the engine and throttle servo. Hope this helps :)

[water dog]

I extend the antenna wire as high as it can go to in crease the range and it helps.