Need Switch Help From You Electrical Gurus

[gavinhickson]

Hey Guys,

I live on a lake out here in AZ where we can have electric only on our pontoon boats. I recently picked up this 70lb thrust, bow mount MinnKota to use as a stern drive. I have the mounting figured out to work with the steering wheel on the pontoon but my problem is there is no reverse on bow mount motors.

I need your help in wiring a forward/reverse switch. This is a 24 volt motor. I have the motor apart now and when I reverse the positive and negative the motor does spin backwards. I'm guessing the switch will go in line between the control box and the motor itself (see pics).

Here's what I need:
1) What type of switch to purchase? I would like it to be weatherproof and able to handle the high current of the motor.
2) How to wire the switch?

I appreciate the help.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Need Switch Help From You Electrical Gurus

Here is a diagram on how to wire the switch. (Ignore the TRIM SWITCH label -- the diagram applies for your troller as well). It will need to be a three position (ON-OFF-ON) to provide forward (UP), OFF (center) and reverse (down) functions. A two position (but still with six terminals) could be used as well if a center off position is not needed or desired. The issue will be finding a switch to carry the 42 amp maximum load for that motor. Two high current relays used in conjunction with the switch would work. You would likely need to package the extra parts in a separate box as there would not be room in the foot control unit.

 

[gavinhickson]

Re: Need Switch Help From You Electrical Gurus

Sounds perfect Silvertip, but I don't see a diagram? By the way I won't be using the foot pedal. I will mount the switches in the dash and use the steering wheel on the boat. I'm guessing the two relays will be the way to go.

 

[kahuna123]

Re: Need Switch Help From You Electrical Gurus

You can buy those relays for around 5 bucks a piece or less if you do a search. But I am not sure how the variable speed control board will react with reverse voltage. It may not be a great idea. Maybe it will.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Need Switch Help From You Electrical Gurus

This has all been worked out off-line with the OP and he has things working fine. Nothing changes with the control board as FWD/REV switching occurs after the board sends power down the shaft to the motor.