[gtewu]

I have Minn Kota PowerDrive 40PD 12V. When I put it in the water, it will run for about 30 seconds and then stop for about 5 seconds and then start running for about 5 seconds and this continues (on for 5s, off for 5s). It does this whether I have the foot pedal on momentary or constant. Apparently, this only happens under load because when I pull it out of the water it does not exhibit this behavior. Any suggestions on how to troubleshoot would be appreciated.

[Silvertip]

That would be the circuit breaker cycling. It is either too small, or the motor is drawing excess current due to fish line around the prop shaft or tight bearings.

[Splat]

agreed. Pull prop and check it out. How big of a teolling motor and how big of a circuit breaker are we talking here?

Bill

[gtewu]

Thanks for the advice. It turns out to be faulty circuit breaker (which is at least 17 years old left over from a previous motor). I hooked up a multimeter along the battery cables and noticed the voltage dropped to 0V whenever the motor cut out.

The breaker is rated for 40A/12V and is one of those terminal inline versions that connect to the battery terminal. I've attached a jpeg.

I have a 40 lbs thrust motor. I felt it after running the motor and it was hot. I need to replace it. I would think 40A would be enough but I know minn kota sells one that is 60A. Do I really need 60A?

[Silvertip]

You don't need a 60A breaker but you do need bigger than 40. A 50A would work just fine. They are available at any farm store, home center, or department store that sells boating supplies.