Trolling Motor Problem

[dave potts]

I am having a problem with my Motor Guide trolling motor so thought I would seek some thoughts here before I "tear into it".

It will run fine on the three higher forward speeds but will not run on the low forward speed or any of the reverse speeds. It is a nine year old transom mount motor that I changed so I could mount it to the bow. I did that when I bought it nine years ago and it has always run fine.

It appears to be a switch problem. On the low forward speed I can twitch the handle and get it run for a second or two but then stop. On the faster forward speeds it will run fine.

Anybody have any thoughts as to the problem or how to fix it?

Is there any place in the central Missouri area that works on them?

Thanks,

Dave

[fishinwrench]

Dave, it sounds like a wire has come unsoldered from the speed switch (rheostat ) or the switch has gotten corroded. You could probably tear into it and repair it yourself, they are pretty simple in design. Parts are pretty reasonable online if you need any.

www.trollingmotorparts.com

[dave potts]

Wrench,

You were spot on. I took the top off and one of the slide-on connectors was off. I slid it back on and it works fine. It took more time to find the screw I dropped than it did to fix it.

I owe you a cold one.

Thanks,

Dave

[kirbydog]

Wrench,

I've got an issue with my minn kota All Terrain 55 lb TM. Over the years it has seemed to lose some power. Wheras

I used to be in #2 or 3 speed alot, now I'm in #4 and 5 just about all the time.

I have heard that TM's will lose power over time, motor is 12 yrs old and its been used alot.

Is there an easy fix for this. Right now my thinking is I'll just treat myself to a Maxxum 55 lb for my

birthday.

Other than the lose in power I've not had a single problem with it over the years. Part of me wants to open the bottom unit up as I've heard if its leaked the water will rust the armature and stuff and this will cause you to lose power.

[fishinwrench]

If you have ever worked on an armature electric motor and have an understanding of how they work you can probably restore the motor back to like new as far as "power" goes.

The usual culprit is carbon glazing or corrosion on the brushes and contacts, and worn (over-heated) brush springs that have lost their tension. Shine the contacts up nice and bright, put a fresh face on the brushes and back them up with new springs.

If there are signs of moisture in the motor you'll have to reseal it.

The first one you do will be pretty tricky......after that it's a piece of cake.

[kirbydog]

Wrench,

Tried to send you a PM but I'm new to the site and don't know if I'm set up to receive messages.