minn kota trolling motor problem

[gbatts2]

I have a 55lb thrust minn kota bow mount hand contol trolling motor which suddenly decided it doesn't want to really work. When I turn it on either forward or reverse (5 speeds) it will spin (out of the water). When it is in the water it spins super slowly no matter what speed it is on. I can pull the prop about an 1/8 of an inch away from the main housing on the lower unit. It seems to have water in the lower unit which I assume is supposed to be sealed. I know this because air bubbles come out between the prop and the lower unit when it goes back into the water. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: minn kota trolling motor problem

There is enough air space between the back of the prop and the motor itself that the air bubbles you see is water filling that space. That would not be a problem. How old is the battery, what type is it, and ave you had it load tested? Any auto store will do that for you. If you are using an regular auto battery, they will not last long if continually deeply discharged. If the motor runs on all five speeds I'm betting you need a new battery. Trolling motor batteries also need to be charged immediately after each use.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: minn kota trolling motor problem

Also pull the prop and check for fishing line wrapped around it.

 

[gbatts2]

Re: minn kota trolling motor problem

The battery is charged. It went from working fine to barely turning from one use to the next while fishing. Is it possible the prop is stripped around the shaft?

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: minn kota trolling motor problem

The prop connects to the shaft with a shear pin. Yes it can be bad. Its very simple to pull the prop and check. Just remove that one nut in the center of the prop and pull it off.