Amps for breaker to tilt trim motor

[ssmit15]

I have a 1990 Force 150 motor(Purchased used a couple of years ago) and the tilt trim motor is a newer model ( 37-43530-1)...not sure of the manufacturer. I am replacing the manual circuit breaker because it blows after I tilt and trim the motor several times in a row. The old one is 25 amp. Any idea of the amp rating of the newer motor? Replacement breakers are available from Iboat in 20, 40, and 50 amp sizes. Can I use a 40 or 50 amp?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Amps for breaker to tilt trim motor

You have to be careful here. If wiring leading to the motor is too small for the new motor, a breaker larger than the amp capacity of the wire will cause the wires to overheat, melt the insulation and possibly cause a fire. A bigger breaker does no good if the wires will fry before the breaker trips. Circuit breakers de-rate slightly each time they trip. If the existing breaker has tripped many times, it may no longer be capable of holding 25 amps and instead may be tripping at say 20 amps. Borrow or buy a cheap auto amp meter and put it in series with the UP lead to the motor. Cycle the trim and measure the current. If its much higher than 25A, I'd look for binding in the tilt system or tilt tube.

 

[grandx]

Re: Amps for breaker to tilt trim motor

ss,<br />take a look here:<br /><br /> http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/amps-wire-gauge-33_730.html <br /><br />breakers/fuses should be sized to protect the wire, the wire should be properly sized for the application. fit the breaker to the wire size you have to avoid a fire. Follow the chart and you should be fine.