Remote Speed control switch for Trolling motor

[captkenroy]

I have a WaterSnake ASP on my kayak. This is a little 7# 18# thrust motor.

I installed an on/off switch where I can reach it without having to use the switch at the motor. (I cannot reach the switch at the motor without getting out of the kayak) Now I realize I need to be able to change speed on the motor.

The motor draws 15 Amps in the test tank--probably less when on the yak. I installed a celing fan switch and immediately burned it up. What kind of switch do I need? Where can I get it? Can I install it right in the hot lead?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Remote Speed control switch for Trolling motor

The motor is probably drawing well over 10 amps at anything over 1/2 speed so whatever you would use in the hot lead would need to dissipate lots of heat and that approach is not recommended. Depending on the age of this motor and the technology used to control speed, it may use a series of "speed coils" which are wire wound resistors. The speed selector switch in that case would be a multi-position switch that selects a specific speed coil or combination of coils for that speed. If the speed control is fully variable then speed control is electronic. In either case you could disassemble the head of the motor and remove the control and extend it to where you can reach it. No new parts would be necessary -- just a bit of wire and perhaps a small plastic box that would house the control. Pay attention to connections and wire colors as you disassemble things. Better yet, take pictures.

 

[captkenroy]

Re: Remote Speed control switch for Trolling motor

This motor is only about 2 weeks old. I took the top works off the motor with the intention of doing just what you suggested but when I found so dang many wires, I threw up my hands. If I take photos and notes (and have my wife help because she is more organized than I am) I shouldn't screw it up. I probably hae enough wire around here to do it and do it right. It really would be nice to have the reverse feature too.

Thank you for the response.