Castle Creations Hydra Cobra 5 8S Brushless Marine ESC
About this part
Marine-Ready Performance and Design
The Castle Creations Hydra Cobra 5 8S is a next-generation brushless ESC specifically engineered for high-performance RC boats up to 50 inch in length and powered by up to 8S LiPo batteries. Built on the reliable Cobra 5 platform, it features a custom water-cooled heatsink with dual anodized fittings and a robust CNC aluminum housing filled with waterproof epoxy. This marine-specific design ensures efficient thermal management and full protection from harsh aquatic environments, while an upgraded current-sensing and thermal protection system reduces the risk of failure under high-load conditions.
About the HYDRA COBRA 5 ESC
Advanced Control and Data Logging
At the heart of the Hydra Cobra 5 is a 32-bit processor that delivers smoother motor control and faster response times. The ESC also boasts significantly enhanced data logging capabilities, including double the sampling frequency and eight times the logging duration of earlier models. With onboard acceleration data and motor timing information, users can analyze performance in detail. A looping feature ensures continuous data capture, even during prolonged runs, making it easier to tune and troubleshoot high-demand setups.
Tuning Flexibility and Smart Features
Castle includes its Castle Link V4 USB programmer with the Hydra Cobra 5, giving users free access to tuning options, firmware updates, and diagnostic tools via the Castle Link 2 software. Fine-tune your system with separate brake and reverse curves, and adjust the powerful integrated BEC from 5.0V to 8.5V in 0.1V increments. Additional smart features include CRYO-DRIVE™ thermal efficiency, audible alerts for common issues like overheating and low voltage, and transmitter programming for six essential ESC settings—all enhancing customization and user control on the water.
Durability and Installation Requirements
This ESC retains the compact footprint of the Hydra XLX2, allowing easy upgrades while maintaining compatibility. Designed for serious marine setups, it’s housed in a rugged, waterproof enclosure with bottom-mounted installation holes for secure placement. Because of its extreme power handling, Castle requires connectors rated for at least 150 amps continuous, such as EC8, QS8, or Castle’s 6.5mm polarized connectors, while warning against the use of lower-rated connectors like XT90 or EC5.
Features:
- 32-Bit Processing Power
- Enhanced Data Logging
- Water-Cooled Heatsink
- CRYO-DRIVE™ Technology
- Waterproof CNC Aluminum Housing
- Integrated Adjustable BEC.
- Advanced Thermal and Current Protection
- Free Castle Link V4 Programmer Included
- Transmitter Programming Support
- Audible Alerts and Diagnostics
Includes:
- (1) Hydra Cobra 5 ESC
- (1) Cobra decals
- (1) Castle Link V4 USB Adapter
- (1) Hydra Cobra Quick Start Guide
Specifications:
| Suggested Application | Boats up to 50" |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Brushless - Sensored |
| Input Voltage | 3-8S LiPo (11.1-33.6V) |
| Continuous Current | 180A |
| Burst Current | 350A |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 43.98x2.49x1.34in (101.2x63.3x34mm) |
| Weight | 2.9oz (365g) |
| Motor Limits | - |
| BEC Voltage | 5.5-8.5V (Adjustable) |
| BEC Continuous Current | - |
| BEC Peak Current | 20A |
| Motor Connector | 8.0mm Bullet |
| Battery Connector | Bare Wire |
| Motor Wire | - |
| Battery Wire | - |
| Programmable | Yes with Castle Link V4 USB adapter |
*Tech 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.