Minn Kota motor cuts in/out

[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]

Re: Minn Kota motor cuts in/out

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]

Re: Minn Kota motor cuts in/out

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]

Re: Minn Kota motor cuts in/out

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]

Re: Minn Kota motor cuts in/out

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.