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- HYDRA COBRA 5, 8S, 33.6V ESC, 20A PEAK BEC
HYDRA COBRA 5, 8S, 33.6V ESC, 20A PEAK BEC
Product #: 010-0182-00
32-bit precision for the waves.
Building on the success of the Hydra XLX2, we are excited to announce the release of the all-new HYDRA COBRA 5, engineered for marine applications up to 50" and up to 8s LiPo!
Based on our proven Cobra 5 architecture, this marine-focused ESC features a custom water-cooled heatsink for efficient thermal management and an aluminum top plate with dual anodized water fittings (.17" OD, 10-32 UNF threads). The ESC is housed in a rugged CNC aluminum case and potted in waterproof epoxy to protect the electronics and includes an upgraded current-sensing and thermal protection system actively mitigates the risk of failure in aggressive or high-load setups.
Access to tuning options, data logs, and firmware updates for the COBRA SERIES ESCs is available at no charge using the Castle Link V4 USB adapter included in the box and Castle Link 2 software, available for download on the Castle Creations website.
The HYDRA COBRA 5 is packed with a potent combination of hardware and software advancements,making it an indispensable ally in high-performance power systems. Users will benefit from the same footprint as its predecessor, the HydraXLX2, while an upgraded current-sensing and thermal protection system actively mitigates the risk of failure in aggressive or high-load setups.
NOTE: Due to the high power nature of the Hydra Cobra 5, you must use appropriately sized batteries and connectors. We recommend a minimum 150 amp connector for the Hydra Cobra 5;examples include Castle 6.5mm polarized, EC8 and QS8. DO NOT USE XT90,Traxxas,EC5/IC5 or any other connectors rated below 150 amps continuous.
HYDRA COBRA 5 NEW FEATURES:
- 32-Bit processing power for smoother motor control and improved response time.
- Enhanced Data Logging includes:
- Double the maximum sample frequency of older generations.
- 8x increased logging time of older generations.
- ESC electrical motor timing data.
- Acceleration data via onboard accelerometer.
- Looping feature prevents interruptions in data log recording.
- Additional tuning features include:
- Improved braking adjustability
- Separate brake and reverse curves
- Highly adjustable internal BEC (5.0V - 8.5V adjustable in 0.1V increments)
- Access to tuning options and firmware updates for free with Castle Link V4 USB programmer included with purchase.
- Upgraded current-sensing and thermal protection system actively mitigates the risk of failure in aggressive or high-load setups.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES:
- CRYO-DRIVE™ Technology minimizes the amount of time the ESC’s electrical components spend generating heat, resulting in improved thermal performance during partial throttle operation where the majority of driving occurs
- ESC is housed in a rugged CNC aluminum case and potted in waterproof epoxy to protect the electronics and promote efficient heat transfer
- Powerful Integrated 20A Peak Adjustable BEC (5.25V-8.0V)
- Machined water-cooled heatsink with 0.17" water fittings.
- Waterproof design for all weather conditions
- Auxiliary wire functionality for "on-the-fly" adjustments using your transmitter
- Mounting holes located in bottom of aluminum case for affixing to your vehicle
- Audible alerts for easy diagnosis of common issues such as motor-over-temperature and low-voltage cutoff
- Convenient transmitter programming for six common adjustable settings including cutoff voltage and drag brake
- Proudly designed and manufactured in Olathe, KS USA and backed by Castle Creations' 1-year warranty
PURCHASE INCLUDES:
Hydra Cobra 5 ESC, Cobra decals, Castle Link V4 USB Adapter, Hydra Cobra Quick Start Guide
Resources | ||
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Cobra Series Drivers Ed Guide | Hydra Cobra 5 Quick Start Guide | Product Use Statements |
ESC Calibration | Cobra 5 Mounting Template | Audible Alert Reference Chart |
- Waterproof : Yes
- Telemetry Capable : No
- Data Logging : Yes
- Auxiliary Wire : Yes
- Minimum Input Voltage : 3S
- Maximum Input Voltage : 8S
- Sensored Capable : Yes
- Recon G6 Certified ESC : No
- ROAR Certified ESC : No
- CRYO-DRIVE : Yes
- B-Link Compatible : No
Product Use Statements | |
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Calibration: |
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Input Voltage: |
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Battery Capacity Minimum: |
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Wiring and Soldering: |
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.Connector Ratings Minimum: |
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Motors: |
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Prop size: |
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Castle Link Settings: |
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AUX Wire: |
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Operating Environment Considerations: |
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Technical Specs | |
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Application Guidelines: | RC Hobby boats up to 50" |
Input Voltage Range: | MIN: 3S LiPo, MAX: 8S LiPo 33.6V |
Running Modes: | Sensorless, Brushed and SmartSense™ when paired with a Castle 4-Pole Sensored Motor. |
Brake: | Available, but disabled by default. |
Reversible: | Available, but disabled by default. |
On/Off Switch: | Yes, waterproof |
Water cooling fittings | Two .17" fittings included. Uses 10-32 UNF threads. |
Size: | Length: 3.98” (101.2mm), Width: 2.49” (63.3mm), Height: 1.34” (34mm) |
Weight (with wires): | 12.9 oz (365g) |
Continuous current rating*: (SEE NOTE BELOW) | 180A |
Burst current rating*: (SEE NOTE BELOW) | 350A |
Motor Connectors: | 8mm female bullets on circuit board, matching 8mm male bullets for motor required (not included). |
Items Needed for Operation: | The Hydra Cobra 5 requires the use of connectors designed for 150+ amps continuous, such as Castle 6.5mm polarized or CC BULLET 8.0MM, QS8 8mm Anti Spark or QS10 10mm Anti Spark. You will also need 8mm male bullets for the motor connections. |
Operating environment: | Waterproof design for all weather conditions (See Operating Environment Considerations) |
Programmability: | Access to tuning options and firmware updates for free with Castle Link V4 USB adapter included with purchase. Now with USB-C connector! (Requires Windows 10 or higher) |
Tech Tips: | The Hydra Cobra 5 has threaded mounting holes on the bottom of the ESC. There are four M3 mounting holes with a maximum depth of 5mm; they are spaced 46mm wide and 40.2mm long. Use this template for assistance in alignment and screw hole positioning. If replacing the water cooling fittings, it is recommended to use Loctite® 545 (or similar) on the threads. This will ensure a watertight, 25+ PSI strong seal. |

This is a high power product with the potential to be very dangerous. Please read the safety information before use. This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and or birth defects or other reproductive harm.
The burst rating is for short, momentary periods lasting no more than 2 seconds. The time between bursts, how long the burst lasts, and water temperature will affect temperatures. Make sure all components in the system (battery, connectors, motor) are capable of handling said current. Closely monitor ESC, motor and battery temperatures and review ESC's data logs.
Controller designed and circuit boards manufactured, in Olathe, Kansas USA.
Controller assembled in Olathe, Kansas USA.

Optional Accessories | |
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010-0079-00 | Castle Link Quick Connect (or Quick Connect Duo) |
011-0068-00 | 6.5mm Polarized Connectors-Male Multi-Pack |
011-0069-00 | Polarized Castle Connectors - 6.5mm Female Multi-Pack |
CC BULLET 6.5MM | 6.5mm Male/Female Connector Set (3ea) |
CC BULLET 8.0MM | 8.0mm Male/Female Connector Set (3ea) |
011-0148-00 | Castle Capacitor Pack, 8S MAX (35V) |
011-0147-00 | DIRECT CONNECT SENSOR WIRE 300MM |
Service Parts | |
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011-0027-00 | WIRE, 36", 08 AWG, BLACK |
011-0028-00 | WIRE, 36", 08 AWG, RED |
011-0029-00 | WIRE, 36", 08 AWG, WHITE |
011-0157-00 | RECEIVER HARNESS REPLACEMENT - MAMBA XLX2 |