Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

[rscottdds]

The whole problem started when I went to use the boat for the first time this year (it had been sitting for 3 months). When I went to uncover it, I noticed that the trolling motor had a "burnt electrical" smell. As it turns out it had been left in the "on" position the whole time. The motor didn't work. After replacing the lower unit the motor now works but not correctly. I wired it the exact same way the other one was wired (Blue to Blue, Yellow to Yellow, Red to Red, and Black to Green)

It turns on immediately when the switch is turned from off to either 12v or 24v even though no one is pushing the "on" tab on the foot petal.

The motor runs at the same speed (I think full speed but not sure) no matter what position the 5 speed knob is set to (Off through 5).

I'm pretty sure the boat is set up to only work on the 24v setting. I have two trolling motor batteries that are jumpered with a lead coming from the positive of battery #1 and a lead coming from the negative of Batt #2. I only used the motor in the 24v setting so I don't remember if it ever worked in the 12v setting but it does now (and maybe it always did but it sure doesn't look like its set up that way).

Anyway, hopefully this is enough for someone to troubleshoot.

Thanks for your help,
-Robert

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

The motor cannot operate correctly in the 12 volt mode if the batteries are connected in series AT THE BATTERIES. Normally there are three or four wires running from the batteries to the motor (or switch panel) on a 12/24 motor. It is the 12/24 switch that makes the series to parallel or 12 to 24 connection.

 

[rscottdds]

Re: Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

It is an older Brute Motorguide bowmount 5 speed with foot control. I think it is a 760. Anyway, I didn't change anything at the batteries, I just replaced the lower unit. I'm sure its wired the same way as before. There must be a problem in the foot control unit. I'm not familiar with the speed control switch or other switches in the foot control but can any of those going bad cause this type of behavior?
-Robert

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

If the motor starts immediately when turned from OFF to ON, check the foot pedal to see if it has a MOM/CONT switch. I'll let you contemplate why I ask. (I always try to make life a "learning" experience!)

 

[rscottdds]

Re: Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

It doesn't have a constant on switch. It sure acts like it does now though . There are basically three switches on the foot petal. A 12v, 24v, off toggle switch. A foot activated on/off button. And a rotary speed control knob that goes from Off to 5. None of the switches does anything except the 12v, 24v, Off toggle. In the off possition the motor is off. The moment you switch it to either 12 or 24 the motor instantly turns on. Any thoughts? I'm guessing some/all of the switches fried when the motor did.
-Robert

 

[rscottdds]

Re: Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

As it turns out two wires had melted together under the foot petal. Got those fixed and the speed control started working. The momentary on/off switch was also bad. After I replace that I should be good.
-Robert

 

[Botzman]

Re: Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

Hey silvertip looks like you may be an expert on trolling motors can I get you to contact me directly by email EDIT

 

[NYBo]

Re: Motorguide Trolling Motor problem

Hey silvertip looks like you may be an expert on trolling motors can I get you to contact me directly by email

Welcome to iboats!

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