Humpty Dumpty problems with Minn Kota

[dipfortuna]

I took the prop off my 24lb thrust MK to remove weeds and fishing line. The motor hasn't been pushing the boat as well lately so I decided to pull the lower unit apart to see what was in there and possibly lubricate it. Well, the whole thing pulled out and i can see 2 springs perpendicular to the shaft and two chunky little blocks attached to wires down at the bottom (nose) of the unit.

My questions are: what do the springs do? What are the little chunky things? And how do I get this thing back together?

I can get it back together but the shaft won't turn now.

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. If I could afford a new one, I wouldn't be asking! Thanks!

 

[stu07hd]

Re: Humpty Dumpty problems with Minn Kota

I can answer two of your questions. The chunky little things are called brushes. They carry current to the armature (shaft with wire windings) . The springs hold tension on the brushes so they always make contact.

I am not sure why it would not turn after you get it back together. Do you mean the shaft is in a bind and wont move even if you grab the prop and spin it, or do you mean when you try to turn it on it wont spin?

anyone else?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Humpty Dumpty problems with Minn Kota

You learned a lesson that goes "if it ain't broke -- don't fix it". The parts you mentioned are indeed the brushes and tension springs. To help you get it back together you need to be a little more specific about what doesn't turn and pictures are worth a thousand words.

 

[dipfortuna]

Re: Humpty Dumpty problems with Minn Kota

Yeah, I definitely learned a lesson about "if it ain't broke"! I think the shaft isn't turning because I didn't know how the brushes and springs were supposed to be situated. I think its going to be difficult to get this put together right, but at least now I know how its supposed to be. Thanks!