Electric Trolling Motor Diagnose and Repair

[@hardset-vi3ze]

There's a time to go fast and a time to go slow....knowing the difference makes you a pro!! I learned that myself over a 45 year career and see you've learned that too. Nice straightforward, easy to follow work. Kudos to you!!

[@dennisedwards8954]

In high school drafting class decades ago I learned from Mr Schultz that in life there seems to be never enough time to do something right but always enough time to do it over. And all these years since then I have also learned that many people have not been exposed to that. philosophy.

[@chadwiggins4633]

If Bob Ross were a mechanic....Great video!

[@tomasweber307]

Ha ha. I was just about to wright “”and we’ll just clean up this little brush right over here”. Lol.

[@nyabingirasta]

Wow can I send my trolling motor to fix

[@grantdevries8648]

Thank you Dan Aykroyd for the tutorial. Da bears

[@jp040759]

Minn Kota's are really great. I repaired mine once and the customer service was great. When I found out where to get parts list I was actually able to get replacement decals and side plate to make my motor look brand new. They definitely designed their products for repair ability. It was cool to see how got into the motor head itself. I thought it was going to be more difficult. Easy peasy.

[@joshbest-green27]

I got mine working thanks to you! Saved me $500 or so

[@mdwdirect]

You make everything look so obvious and simple.

[@bobkrohn3700]

love your straight forward teaching methodology! Great use of the camera so your viewers can see what's going on. Also enjoyed learning how to check the power supply. Thanks Jeff!

[@irench]

Love the loaded custom testers. I am a 32yr Master ASE and specialize in exercising poltergeists. I use many a tool I developed especially when you find a common testing situation. I have 3 different bulbs, I use an old halogen high low with a switch wired in to make it single or dual load, I use 3157 also with a switch and a 921 for low current loads. cooling fans to pwm fuel modules, works wonders.

[@musicaslaw]

I was not looking forward to tearing my motor apart, but now I am, armed with this friendly, common sense approach.

[@markh9675]

I'm here 4 years later. I purchased a used minn kota c2 55 transom mount trolling motor for $50 from a nice older gentleman that got it for free on the curbside. It ran slowly, so I knew something wasn't right. Sure enough, I opened her up and water came out. I cleaned all the rust, ordered up most of the parts for the lower end plus a new prop ($100). The armature at $50 was the most expensive. But, given the fact that there was water in it, and I live in MN, I figured the armature had seen some freezing temps with water in it. I wasn't too interested in testing it on the water when it got hot and created an open circuit. With your video, I will have a like-new trolling motor for much less! Clearly, I could've saved even more w/o the armature replacement...but, when you live in MN, $50 is cheap given our short summers! That, and I like wrenching - it's free labor when it's a hobby!

[@ncm55449]

Nice to see a guy who can use his hands and head to solve problems like the old days.... Love your videos...keep it up....

[@sethvance1289]

I wanted to do some major modifications to a couple of trolling motors and wasn’t sure how they was built before buying them and taking them apart, I just wanted to thank you I know how they work now so I can put together a plan well before I buy them. Thank you man great video.

[@2jeffs1]

Thank you for stopping by Seth. So appreciate the feed back!

[@chuckhere]

My 54# thrust electric motor just quit working, after 5 outings. Not afraid to tackle 'tearing-it-apart', because of your Video. Thank You Very Much.

[@rossbaiza9369]

Thank you for making this video! My motor was just as dead, verified the head was good and moved to the motor. Lots of building up on the brushes and armature? Cleaned it all up and assembled, thank you so much!

[@stevewright2653]

Great video. Got to see what was wrong and how you fixed it as well as how you took everything apart. Just one thought. The pin in the propeller you made out of a drill bit. I thought those pins were a much softer metal and were meant to break when the propeller is stressed to keep the shaft or propeller from being damaged. Love the video. Thank you for taking the time to make it so worth watching.

[@donricki1]

Two years later this motor is going strong kzbin.infoUgkxBZWgzfpS2Jj7JqIHyaSZjyVHNUgCKCBf Just uploaded a video of it after 2 years. We use it probably a dozen days each year on our small raft.-original review- We got this motor the other day and tested it out. I don't have anything to compare it to, but it seems good to me. It has all the features advertised - the motor housing is metal. We will see how it performs longer term and I will revise this review if needed. Some initial observations:- Good thrust, moves our boat around really well- It comes with a circuit breaker but no switch - so there's no way to kill the motor other than yanking the connection off the battery. I installed an inline switch.- The mount bracket is plastic and I worry it might break- There are a number of plastic parts that I worry about, but the most important ones are metal or some kind of composite

[@wildncrazyguytv]

Who’s the man? Your the man! Thank you for explaining this is such great detail. I wish I was one half as organized as you!🤙

[@edwardjohnson6748]

Well done! Best break down and repair explanation I've been able to find. I'm a DIY novice when it comes to this kind of thing. Thanks for the help.

[@2jeffs1]

Your welcome Edward. Much appreciated too on my end when people take time to leave a comment.

[@achilles1373]

Tha ks for the video man. I'm a industrial maintenance millwright guy who's had a lifetime of turning wrenches on cars as well, but this video gave me the proper insight to be able to confidently rip mine apart and find loose magnets. It had a rattle before. 👍👍

[@DocD0C-ps2ik]

Just fixed my Newport Vessels trolling motor (46 lbs.) using the video as a guide. The spring mechanism was slightly different but otherwise this guide was very helpful. Thanks Jeff.

[@MrWhiltetail]

It's nice to see someone that actually FIXES something instead of simply replacing entire assemblies. Fixing things seems to be a lost art form. Wish I had a friend like you around here to fix my 20 year old Min Kota Power Drive that hasn't been used in 15 years and the foot pedal has been laying in the boat for at least 12 years. Might be a little more challenging for you but I bet you could fix it no problem.

[@StingerSecSol]

Glad I found this video. My wife picked up 5 of these that don't work. Now I know how to troubleshoot them. Thank you!

[@KennyDicman]

Bought a Minn Kota from a guy and took his word that it worked and guess what... But thanks to you and your awesome video I got her going like new! Thank you Sir

[@2jeffs1]

Your welcome! Cool write - up Kenny. One likes to trust people, I have that too and on several more recent purchases.... Glad to help you out!

[@bassinbillRC5300]

Quickly grabbing the front of the motor shaft while slipping in the steel manet casing allowed me to be successful. I just hooked up a deep cycle battery to the motor and all speeds work and prop is spinning in the correct direction. Cost of 1995 AT 36 foot-operated trolling motor (that was not working) $40. Rebuild kit cost:$32.50 Effort at 2 hours of working on and off AND finding a 6.5mm socket to open up the thing: priceless!

[@slick9349]

Thank you for your outstanding video. It helped me diagnose the same exact problem and because of your help I was able to restore and rebuild my lower unit. My lower unit now runs like new. Thanks for teaching.

[@frankdi5151]

Great video, detailed, informative, simple and good lighting. Can’t ask for anymore! Keep up the good work👍

[@kirbylane9451]

I'm so glad I found this vid. I'm going fishing in the morning and in cleaning up the boat, charging the battery ect. I found my trolling motor not working. Kind of sucks as I just bought it last year and only used it four times, and the store told me there's no warranty. But this'll get me fixed up so I can get out on the lake in the morning.

[@gfoxer]

Well done sir. I truly enjoyed that presentation. I only wish it was still daylight...I'd go pull mine off the boat right now because I know I'm gonna fix it!

[@AugustPowell-hz2vo]

This is the first trolling motor I have owned. It’s been great! Lots of thrust. Would recommend.

[@kevincontos8282]

Great video. I love your attention to detail. I picked up a non-working Minn Kota for free. After watching your video I was able to take it apart, diagnose it, and fix it in about 30 minutes It turns out it was the same exact problem as the one in your video. A little cleaning and sanding of the brushes was all it took.

[@2jeffs1]

Thank you Kevin! Enjoyed reading your comment. Having the same issue and that the video helped you out. The best part was you got it for free!

[@CarlosPerez-ju8rt]

Wish I had a friend like you around! Great video!!

[@RobertKingofMaine]

Great job on that trolling motor! I have one that is dying now. Need someone like you around Portland, Maine. Thanks for the show

[@fishinjunkee1701]

Thanks for the info , my trolling motor is up and running now!

[@pauladams3789]

Love your trouble shooting skills. Throwing parts at something and hopefully it fixed it can be expensive and timely. (I have been guilty of doing) Great repair at little cost. Well Done!

[@Deqster]

This is exactly what I needed for the old troller I picked up on craigslist. Thank you!

[@fishinfool3795]

Very helpful and informative. I have an older one that has very little wear, just has sat for a long time. This gives me a bit more confidence to get it going. Thanks.

[@MichaelMerchantII]

That was exactly what I needed to see. I have that exact troller motor and ive started doing some of the things you did. However, I didnt know about the brushes, or those 2 pieces that have the wore attached to it. Ill sand it just like you did and see what happens. Thanks a lot showing your video.

[@keirhcamardelle128]

Thanks so much for the info I feel much better of doing a rebuild on my trolling motor I have 245.00 in parts Shaft broken and lost my prop So I decided to replace brush assy O rings. Shaft assy etc It’s a Rip tided 110lb thrust 36v Thanks again

[@sixtyfiveford]

Diagnosing is half the fun. Nicely done.

[@2jeffs1]

Thank You! Sure is. Was surprised on how nice it was designed for working on.

[@tiretrx4785]

Excellent, step by step video! Easy to follow and no fluff.......just information. Well done.

[@AndrewD50297045]

What a Champion. Tore mine apart, and had the exact same issue. Works like a charm now

[@mattynn8080]

Bruh my dude buddy friend I cannot tell you how much I appreciate this video. I have the exact same trolling motor and repaired it exactly like you did thank you my friend.

[@Northernstar9370]

Great informative video! I'm a little out of my element working on an electric motor but this gave me a great understanding of what I'll be looking for when I dig into my Endura tomorrow. Thanks!

[@2jeffs1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@pernelle1]

Great video. A friend gave me an older 27 lb thrust minn kota that sat up for a few years, and he didn't think it worked. It worked fine but I'm saving your video for future references. Thanks

[@Stickyhookfiles]

Saved my motor today. Had the exact same issue. I’m so glad I came across this video

[@ronghoward]

great video. need to replace the brush end housing on mine after breaking off the skeg on an obstruction. tripping the brush springs after inserting the armature was an insight. after reading many stories of guys using their fingers to hold them back (most unsuccessful) i knew there had to be a better way. thanks again

[@2jeffs1]

Your welcome. Enjoyed reading your write up!

[@johnsnow6022]

Really good video. I'll try my best to explain my situation. I have a 70 pound in Kota foot operated trolling motor, It's getting power everywhere I took the blade off, So I could get to the motor. I noticed just below the little pin that holds the blade on the shaft but just below it is what looks like a fixed washer surrounded by a piece of rubber it looked like it was sticking out so I tapped it back down so it was flush and level and my trolling motor started working fine. It's pretty new not even 2 years old

[@mustie1]

great repair, love that shop too,

[@2jeffs1]

Thank you. We do enjoy challenge of keeping things from those recyclers! ;>)

[@icantthinkofaname4682]

Look who I found while trying to fix a free trolling motor lol. Love both your guys' videos

[@RobertKingofMaine]

You are remarkable! At 3:39 I think I heard "brush holder". I believe I heard you say that the brush holder is wearing out. Then you did say "That's your problem right there". I have a Traxxis 55 pounder and it has been difficult to get it to even spin on the first outing. I had to repeatedly tap it with something massive and then it would start and stop. This morning I made a decision to try to fix it, BASED ON YOUR VIDEO.. I consider myself smart and highly skilled with fine woodworking. But I have zero aptitude with anything electrical and not motivated toward mechanical stuff. I am now. LOL. After. taking that motor apart and doing what you said, I noticed that one of the spring loaded brush holders would not pop out freely. After using 400 grit to smooth a boogger (as you say) and lubing things (especially the one brush holder (?)) I reassembled it and when to the garage to test it. I made up my mind that if it did not work on the first attempt, I would make that 800 call and order a new Traxxis 55. IT WORKED!!! And it works smoothly in forward and reverse (one other problem was the shear pin had snapped and a piece was stuck in the shaft hole) It works like it was new. Of course, it is probably 3 years old now and I use it a lot for my loon work (please see my website below my name). This winter I am going to take it down cellar and service it completely. The plate, underneath those two brush holders is broken (separated) on one side, causing one brush holder to press unevenly. I will see if I can order it right after typing this reply. I love my electric motors (a Traxxis 40 too) and have been on the water my entire life. Now, because your teachings, I am going to actually enjoy servicing the motors myself. Thank you www.itsaboutnature.net

[@tonybaggett1984]

I wish my mind worked like yours. You just break it down so simply you make it look easy (which it's not). Can't wait for the shop tour!

[@2jeffs1]

Thankx Tony. I integrated many things into the building that will be shown/explained on that video. Should be a few ideas for others to grab.

[@josephschury7861]

I would like to see how the brushes are held in by the springs then released, thanks, Kyle. I liked your video.

[@jimchambersed.d.4663]

Nice work on the trolling motor. No nonsense and totally appreciated.

[@jimwilliams8229]

I just saved one from the dumpster. Thought I'd check your video out. Excellent information here so I'm ready to proceed.

[@PetClipdog]

Grade project very instructive for me. Thank you

[@skyaaronwarcraftvids]

The most informational video on KZbin.thank you. I'm am electronics engineer and this gave me the confidence i needed to address both of my motors giving me trouble

[@bassinbillRC5300]

Did U repair them after all?

[@herbertwilborn1792]

Outstanding video !! Thanks for the helpful hint for holding the bushes re-tracked with re-assembling then releasing the tension springs ! Professional repair.....

[@scottt3491]

Great vid! I came across this while looking for a video on removing a stuck sheer pin. I think I might pull mine apart and give it a full service now. Thank you!

[@rustyfletcher8276]

Very informative. I am trying to figure out what’s wrong with mine. Head will turn fine but propellor doesn’t work when pushing throttle button on foot pedal. This video didn’t cover that issue but I still watched it. Lots of good tips. Thanks

[@d.coleman828]

Just watched your video and a bunch of others covering the same thing and have come to the conclusion that you may send your version to all others trying to explain the same thing so they can learn what they are doing. Great work, wished I'd came across yours first. The others were entertaining though

[@jakewaslaski2832]

About to try this on mine. Explained so well I bet I can do it. Please make videos of everything.

[@jasonyannuccelli2499]

Well that was great ! I really like the way you explain what you’re doing, why you’re doing that way and explaining other methods to fault find and your process of elimination. Great video. Many thanks I’m Subscribed !

[@roberta.6295]

Very nice video. It has given me a nice view of the inside thanks! I just bought a used one today. It runs smooth but its always nice to know whats inside should I have to service mine in the future. Most all parts are available online. Good job!

[@MrHarryson1985]

From 1 Jeff to another thank you you saved me $500 when my own traxxas stopped working

[@jasonwar859]

Great video.....Unfortunately I might have "fixed" something that was not broken. I took everything apart just as you did. Sanded and cleaned everything only to have it still not work. I then sanded down the battery clamps there were rusty and it started working great. At least I know everything is clean and lubed....plus no more fishing line.

[@MobsterNine]

You make it look easy. Looking forward to the upcoming vids!

[@2jeffs1]

Have lots that I wish to cover on the shop one.

[@jasonjungmann6264]

I want to thank you for posting this video I had found 1 that was on the end of someone's driveway and it didn't work and fixed it thanks again 😊.

[@stratoman5504]

Another great video.......I love the shots of the turkeys, rainbows, crows, etc. mixed in with the mechanical stuff. I got a piece of adhesive backed sand paper stuck on my bench, for doing that kind of stuff. Works great.

[@2jeffs1]

Lots of cridders out here. Thanks for the tip Dave, actually have some 6" discs for the da with the sticky on the back, multiple grit. Never thought of using those!

[@davidmohammed8768]

Will be working on mine tomorrow. Thanks for an informative and simple approach

[@davidmeade6283]

Love it! Appreciate the easy pace and full but not-too-much explanation. Good shop habits! - I'd love to have my sons watch you.

[@buzmey9]

Attention to detail. Anyone that has you service their equipment or autos is quite lucky.

[@BehindTheEyesofTony]

Thank you i almost thru out an endura 55 trolling motor saw your video it helped me out alot great video

[@WilliamPozo]

Great Video. Took the opportunity to show my 10 year old how an electric motor works. Great video. Thanks for sharing. William in Miami.

[@2jeffs1]

Thank you William. It's nice to get the younger interested in things. Years down the road knowing how things work can be so beneficial and the pride of being able to repair instead of hiring out.

[@poolmotorrepairguyFL]

The Florida pool pump motor repair guy approved ! that was good info

[@thenault20]

What a handy fella lol I envy this guy tho cuz he gets to do what he enjoys doing and he's obviously quite stress free in his element 🙌👏👏 Great video btw! Liked n subscribed😉

[@Kal-El_000]

Best tutorial on trolling repair. I just fixed my motor following this. You legend!

[@2jeffs1]

So appreciate your comment, glad to help!

[@robertmartin153]

Great video and instructions are easy to follow. Awaiting parts to come in and then I'll reassemble and see how it goes. Will let you know.

[@robertmartin153]

Back together and working like a charm. Thank you very much.

[@charleswarnol2236]

I have a couple old trolling motors and this gives me some ideas about testing them. Thanks!!

[@2jeffs1]

Your welcome Charles. I was hoping to get some responses as yours!

[@gregbowles6654]

Thank you so much. Clear,concise, well shot! I'm sure this will help me fix mine which didn't work after 3 years in dry storage.

[@davidhoneycutt1965]

Exactly my issue. Thank you for the splendid tutorial!

[@laurienixon7872]

This vide was awsome! Our motor is now purring like a charm! Thanks!

[@junebug5644]

Great video! Thanks for taking the time to make it and share.

[@markawesome439]

Fun to watch somebody that knows what they're doing

[@RobertKingofMaine]

Folks, it starts with his dog coming out to meet us. That is so cute. I subscribed and am going to follow any and all of his videos

[@matthewduncan5419]

Dude that was a great video I was just wish more people did ones like that not just a subject matter but some people are horrible ,great job

[@gearheadgraphics]

great video. ive got a motor I need to fix, you got me set on the path

[@waynespicer89]

So well done - both the video and commentary !!

[@johnwomack8762]

Most excellent video. Thank you so much! This is getting me out of a jam right now. Thanks again.

[@mauriciogonzalez1689]

Ahoy mate thks a million for your video, I did same thing to my trolling motor and got it running again 👍 thks again

[@dusktropic]

Awesome tutorial. Thank you for a helpful video. Now lets see if I can repair my trolling motor aswell =)

[@bassackward6217]

exactly what I needed for my Endura! back on the water again!! Thanks

[@whitebread1011]

Bob Ross working on a trolling motor.. fucking awesome... thank u for the lesson

[@budman1181]

That was nice thanks Boss I was looking to purchase an older 17 lb thrust model but thought I'd look up videos and you were the first to click on - appreciate your time - nice breakdown sir

[@2jeffs1]

Thank you. Appreciate you taking the time to leave such a nice comment. This is what gives me the incentive to do more of these type video's!

[@budman1181]

2jeffs1 Hey boss i have question ,you may be able to answer if possible please. On the Minn Kota Motors is it possible , to rotate the handle control head unit on the shaft ,the same way the propeller is ( so rotate the handle head unit 180 degrees ,mount it in front of me and use it that way on a kayak , is what I was thinking , what do you think. I still haven't bought one or messed with one yet ,that's why I'm asking the yellow perch off the Magothy River - off of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland are starting to run. I am Getting older paddling is starting to suck long distances , LOL Thanks man appreciate your time and opinion !

[@bigTA20]

Excellent teaching video. Second to none. Whoever give a thumbs down on this is...................nevermind. Definitely subscribing.

[@peterdaly6560]

A nice presentation and a super shop. Thank you.

[@FatherDaughterGamers]

Thank you for sharing the knowledge.

[@paulybrittenden]

Thanks Mate. That was really easy to follow along to. Really appreciate it. Great Video.

[@Woefman911]

Well done, i might need this some day, own three of them

[@ubob38]

Well done! Should be on TV.

[@AtimatikArmy]

Perfectly executed, of course!

[@sgtz113ang]

lov your shop helper ! great step by step diy. thanks Zeke

[@matmccann]

Fun watch, and great demonstration of the details. Thanks