Delivery Included
1 Year Warranty
Overview
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.
ESC 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
- 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
Specification
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.
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
Brand, Model and Product Type
- Brand: Castle
- Model: P-CC010-0182-00
- Product Type: Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 8S marine ESC with 20A peak BEC and SmartSense™, Castle P-CC010-0182-00 waterproof ESC with water-cooled heatsink, 180A continuous rating, and 8mm motor bullets, Castle P-CC010-0182-00 marine ESC for RC boats up to 50" with CRYO-DRIVE™ and Castle Link tuning, Castle P-CC010-0182-00 with dual water fittings, 32-bit processor, and 350A burst current rating, Castle marine ESC for sensored or sensorless motors with AUX wire tuning and 200°F thermal cutoff
Dimensions
- Length: 10.12 cm – compact footprint matches Hydra XLX2 for seamless marine integration
- Width: 6.33 cm – designed to fit RC boat hulls with efficient space utilization
- Height: 3.4 cm – accommodates water-cooled heatsink and dual water fittings
- Weight (with wires): 365 g – engineered for thermal mass and durability in high-load marine setups
Electrical and Performance Specifications
- Input Voltage Range: 3S–8S LiPo (33.6V max) – supports extreme marine power configurations
- Continuous Current Rating: 180A – optimized for sustained high-load operation
- Burst Current Rating: 350A – supports short-duration peak loads in aggressive setups
- ESC Operating Modes: Sensorless, Brushed, and SmartSense™ – SmartSense™ enables smooth startup with sensored motors
- Integrated BEC: 5.0V–8.5V adjustable in 0.1V increments; 20A peak – powers high-draw marine servos and onboard systems
- Cooling System: Machined water-cooled heatsink with dual 0.17" fittings – ensures efficient thermal regulation under load
- Thermal Cutoff: 200°F – programmable via Castle Link when using sensored motors
- ESC Housing: CNC-machined aluminum case – rugged and waterproof with epoxy potting
- Heatsink Design: Water-cooled with dual anodized fittings – supports 25+ PSI seal strength with Loctite® 545
Connectivity and Control Features
- Motor Connectors: 8mm female bullets on circuit board – requires matching 8mm male bullets (not included)
- Sensor Wire: Not specified – compatible with Castle 4-Pole Sensored Motors for SmartSense™ operation
- AUX Wire Functionality: Enabled – allows “on-the-fly” adjustments via receiver auxiliary channel
- Transmitter Programming: Supports six adjustable settings including cutoff voltage and drag brake
- On/Off Switch: Waterproof – ensures reliable operation in wet marine environments
Advanced Data Logging and Software
- Logging Capability: Enhanced – double sample frequency and 8x longer recording duration
- Looping Feature: Yes – prevents interruptions during extended marine sessions
- Recorded Metrics: Motor RPM, ESC temperature, battery voltage, throttle input, motor timing, acceleration
- Software Compatibility: Castle Link 2 for Windows 10 or higher – full access to tuning parameters and firmware updates
- USB Adapter: Castle Link V4 with USB-C connector – included for seamless setup and diagnostics
Application Guidelines
- Vehicle Compatibility: Designed for RC hobby boats up to 50" – not intended for full submersion
- Prop Size Considerations: Must be tuned to avoid overheating motor, ESC, or batteries – monitor temps with infrared thermometer
- Motor Compatibility: Supports sensored and sensorless motors – SmartSense™ mode available with Castle 4-Pole Sensored Motors
- Temperature Monitoring: Motor and ESC should not exceed 200°F – use Castle Link to enable cutoff and log performance data
Mounting and Installation
- Mounting Holes: Four M3 threaded holes on bottom – spaced 4.6 cm wide and 4.02 cm long; max depth 0.5 cm
- Water Fittings: Two 0.17" OD fittings with 10-32 UNF threads – replaceable with Loctite® 545 for watertight seal
What’s in the Box
- 1 × Castle HYDRA COBRA 5 ESC
- 1 × Castle Link V4 USB Adapter
- 1 × Castle Decal Sheet
- 1 × Hydra Cobra Quick Start Guide
What You Require / What You Will Need
- High-current battery connector rated for 150+ amps – Castle 6.5mm Polarized, CC Bullet 8.0mm, QS8 or QS10 Anti Spark
- 8mm male bullets for motor connection – required but not included
- Compatible 3S–8S LiPo battery – minimum 5000mAh, 50C continuous discharge; 70C recommended for extreme setups
- Windows 10 or higher PC for Castle Link 2 software
Sold Separately
- Castle CC Bullet connectors if needed
- Dielectric grease for sensor and receiver harness moisture protection
Product Description of Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 8S marine ESC with 20A peak BEC and SmartSense™
The Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 8S marine ESC with 20A peak BEC and SmartSense™ is a purpose-built electronic speed controller engineered for high-performance RC boats up to 50 inches. Designed to handle extreme marine conditions and aggressive power demands, this ESC combines advanced thermal management, precision control, and robust construction. With a continuous current rating of 180A and a burst capacity of 350A, the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 delivers sustained performance without compromising safety or efficiency. Its water-cooled heatsink, dual anodized fittings, and CNC aluminum case make it ideal for high-load marine setups where reliability and responsiveness are non-negotiable.
Key features of the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5
- Water-cooled heatsink – maintains safe operating temperatures during extended runs
- Dual water fittings – ensures efficient coolant flow and secure installation
- SmartSense™ motor control – delivers smooth startups and adaptive sensorless transitions
- Enhanced data logging – captures real-time performance metrics for optimization
- Programmable AUX wire – enables on-the-fly tuning via receiver input
- High-current motor connectors – supports 8mm bullets for secure power delivery
- Thermal cutoff protection – prevents overheating with a 200°F shutdown threshold
Why is the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 ideal for large-scale marine applications?
The Castle P-CC010-0182-00 marine ESC for RC boats up to 50" with CRYO-DRIVE™ and Castle Link tuning is specifically designed to meet the demands of high-powered marine rigs. Its 180A continuous rating and 33.6V input capacity allow it to handle aggressive setups without thermal compromise. The water-cooled heatsink, paired with dual 0.17" anodized fittings, ensures consistent cooling even under prolonged throttle. This makes the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 a reliable choice for hobbyists pushing the limits of speed, torque, and runtime in 1/5 scale boats and marine platforms.
How does SmartSense™ improve motor control in marine environments?
The Castle marine ESC for sensored or sensorless motors with AUX wire tuning and 200°F thermal cutoff utilizes SmartSense™ to deliver smooth, cog-free startups. When paired with a compatible Castle 4-Pole Sensored Motor, the ESC uses sensor feedback to initiate motion precisely. Once underway, it transitions to sensorless operation for maximum efficiency. This hybrid control mode ensures consistent performance across all speed ranges, reducing strain on the drivetrain and improving throttle response. For sensorless motors, the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 defaults to full sensorless operation while maintaining stability and responsiveness.
What makes the water-cooled heatsink essential for thermal management?
The Castle P-CC010-0182-00 waterproof ESC with water-cooled heatsink, 180A continuous rating, and 8mm motor bullets features a machined aluminum heatsink integrated with dual water ports. These 0.17" fittings use 10-32 UNF threads and are designed to maintain a watertight seal under pressure. When connected to a marine cooling loop, the heatsink actively dissipates heat generated during partial and full throttle operation. This prevents thermal saturation and allows the ESC to maintain peak output without triggering shutdown. The water-cooled design is critical for boats operating in warm climates or under sustained load conditions.
How does the Castle Link software enhance tuning and diagnostics?
The Castle P-CC010-0182-00 with dual water fittings, 32-bit processor, and 350A burst current rating includes access to Castle Link 2 software via the included Castle Link V4 USB adapter. This platform allows users to adjust BEC voltage, throttle curves, drag brake settings, and thermal cutoff thresholds. It also enables firmware updates and real-time data analysis. Users can log motor RPM, ESC temperature, battery voltage, throttle input, and acceleration metrics. These insights help optimize prop size, gearing, and battery selection, ensuring the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 performs efficiently and safely in every run.
What role does the AUX wire play in real-time tuning?
The HYDRA COBRA 5 ESC with 8S LiPo support, 0.17" water ports, and CNC aluminum case features a programmable AUX wire that connects to an auxiliary channel on the receiver. Once activated via Castle Link, this wire allows users to adjust key parameters such as throttle limits or braking strength while the boat is in motion. This dynamic tuning capability is especially useful during test runs or competitive events, where conditions may change rapidly. The AUX wire must be disconnected before connecting to Castle Link to prevent hardware damage, and dielectric grease is recommended to protect the connection from moisture.
How does the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 protect against overheating?
The Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 8S marine ESC with 20A peak BEC and SmartSense™ includes a programmable thermal cutoff feature that shuts down the ESC if internal temperatures exceed 200°F. This safeguard is essential for protecting both the ESC and motor from damage caused by excessive heat. Users can monitor temperatures using an infrared thermometer or review logged data via Castle Link. Adjustments to prop size and throttle curves can be made to reduce thermal load, and the water-cooled heatsink further enhances heat dissipation. These combined features ensure safe operation even in high-demand scenarios.
Why is connector selection critical for the Castle P-CC010-0182-00?
The Castle waterproof ESC with 180A continuous rating, 8mm motor bullets, and Castle Link V4 requires connectors rated for 150+ amps continuous. Recommended options include Castle 6.5mm polarized, CC Bullet 8.0mm, QS8, and QS10 Anti Spark connectors. Lower-rated connectors such as XT90 or EC5 are not suitable and may result in catastrophic failure. The ESC includes 8mm female bullets on the circuit board, and matching male bullets are required for motor connection. Proper soldering techniques and wire gauge selection are also essential to ensure safe and efficient power delivery.
For marine enthusiasts seeking precision, durability, and intelligent control, the Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 8S marine ESC with 20A peak BEC and SmartSense™ offers a complete solution. With advanced cooling, real-time tuning, and robust construction, this ESC is engineered for serious RC boat applications. Buy Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 ESC for 1/5 scale RC boats and marine rigs.
Technical Specifications of Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 8S marine ESC with 20A peak BEC and SmartSense™
Brand, Model and Product Type
- Brand: Castle
- Model: P-CC010-0182-00
- Product Type: Castle P-CC010-0182-00 HYDRA COBRA 5 8S marine ESC with 20A peak BEC and SmartSense™, Castle P-CC010-0182-00 waterproof ESC with water-cooled heatsink, 180A continuous rating, and 8mm motor bullets, Castle P-CC010-0182-00 marine ESC for RC boats up to 50" with CRYO-DRIVE™ and Castle Link tuning, Castle P-CC010-0182-00 with dual water fittings, 32-bit processor, and 350A burst current rating, Castle marine ESC for sensored or sensorless motors with AUX wire tuning and 200°F thermal cutoff
Dimensions
- Length: 10.12 cm – compact footprint matches Hydra XLX2 for seamless marine integration
- Width: 6.33 cm – designed to fit RC boat hulls with efficient space utilization
- Height: 3.4 cm – accommodates water-cooled heatsink and dual water fittings
- Weight (with wires): 365 g – engineered for thermal mass and durability in high-load marine setups
Electrical and Performance Specifications
- Input Voltage Range: 3S–8S LiPo (33.6V max) – supports extreme marine power configurations
- Continuous Current Rating: 180A – optimized for sustained high-load operation
- Burst Current Rating: 350A – supports short-duration peak loads in aggressive setups
- ESC Operating Modes: Sensorless, Brushed, and SmartSense™ – SmartSense™ enables smooth startup with sensored motors
- Integrated BEC: 5.0V–8.5V adjustable in 0.1V increments; 20A peak – powers high-draw marine servos and onboard systems
- Cooling System: Machined water-cooled heatsink with dual 0.17" fittings – ensures efficient thermal regulation under load
- Thermal Cutoff: 200°F – programmable via Castle Link when using sensored motors
- ESC Housing: CNC-machined aluminum case – rugged and waterproof with epoxy potting
- Heatsink Design: Water-cooled with dual anodized fittings – supports 25+ PSI seal strength with Loctite® 545
Connectivity and Control Features
- Motor Connectors: 8mm female bullets on circuit board – requires matching 8mm male bullets (not included)
- Sensor Wire: Not specified – compatible with Castle 4-Pole Sensored Motors for SmartSense™ operation
- AUX Wire Functionality: Enabled – allows “on-the-fly” adjustments via receiver auxiliary channel
- Transmitter Programming: Supports six adjustable settings including cutoff voltage and drag brake
- On/Off Switch: Waterproof – ensures reliable operation in wet marine environments
Advanced Data Logging and Software
- Logging Capability: Enhanced – double sample frequency and 8x longer recording duration
- Looping Feature: Yes – prevents interruptions during extended marine sessions
- Recorded Metrics: Motor RPM, ESC temperature, battery voltage, throttle input, motor timing, acceleration
- Software Compatibility: Castle Link 2 for Windows 10 or higher – full access to tuning parameters and firmware updates
- USB Adapter: Castle Link V4 with USB-C connector – included for seamless setup and diagnostics
Application Guidelines
- Vehicle Compatibility: Designed for RC hobby boats up to 50" – not intended for full submersion
- Prop Size Considerations: Must be tuned to avoid overheating motor, ESC, or batteries – monitor temps with infrared thermometer
- Motor Compatibility: Supports sensored and sensorless motors – SmartSense™ mode available with Castle 4-Pole Sensored Motors
- Temperature Monitoring: Motor and ESC should not exceed 200°F – use Castle Link to enable cutoff and log performance data
Mounting and Installation
- Mounting Holes: Four M3 threaded holes on bottom – spaced 4.6 cm wide and 4.02 cm long; max depth 0.5 cm
- Water Fittings: Two 0.17" OD fittings with 10-32 UNF threads – replaceable with Loctite® 545 for watertight seal
What’s in the Box
- 1 × Castle HYDRA COBRA 5 ESC
- 1 × Castle Link V4 USB Adapter
- 1 × Castle Decal Sheet
- 1 × Hydra Cobra Quick Start Guide
What You Require / What You Will Need
- High-current battery connector rated for 150+ amps – Castle 6.5mm Polarized, CC Bullet 8.0mm, QS8 or QS10 Anti Spark
- 8mm male bullets for motor connection – required but not included
- Compatible 3S–8S LiPo battery – minimum 5000mAh, 50C continuous discharge; 70C recommended for extreme setups
- Windows 10 or higher PC for Castle Link 2 software
Sold Separately
- Castle CC Bullet connectors if needed
- Dielectric grease for sensor and receiver harness moisture protection
Finance Options
Click to see Novuna Finance Information
Novuna Personal Finance Available on this product
| DEPOSIT |
MONTHS |
APR |
MONTHLY PAYMENTS |
TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE |
| 24 Month Credit |
| £45.80 |
24 |
19.9% |
24 x £20.64 |
£541.16 |
| 36 Months Credit |
| £45.80 |
36 |
19.9% |
36 x £14.96 |
£584.36 |
| 48 Months Credit |
| £45.80 |
48 |
19.9% |
48 x £12.17 |
£629.96 |
| Buy Now Pay Later 48 months (6 months Deferred) |
| £45.80 |
48 |
24.9% |
48 x £14.36 |
£735.08 |
| Buy Now Pay Later 48 months (10 months Deferred) |
| £45.80 |
48 |
24.9% |
48 x £15.18 |
£774.44 |
| Buy Now Pay Later 48 months (12 months Deferred) |
| £45.80 |
48 |
24.9% |
48 x £16.04 |
£815.72 |
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