DIY Kayak Trolling Motor PWM Power Voltage Amp Output Meter Box

[@krisbeasley6649]

That is crazy how low the current draw is. Thanks for the video.

[@Aksmaniyak]

You are welcome Kris.

[@lowellknapp6073]

Thank you for your videos. They have been very helpful in setting up my trolling motor.

[@Aksmaniyak]

You are welcome Lowell.

[@johnodell2074]

Aksman, I was thinking what if you put another set of o-rings under the cutting board also , to raise it off the box and drill small holes all over in the cutting board below the controller to help even more with air flow, your thoughts.

[@Aksmaniyak]

As long as there is a good gap under the board the extra holes won't really make a difference.

[@scattrr]

Would you still use 10 awg wire for a 55lb thrust motor? I see 8 awg being common & some people say to use 6 awg for 55lb thrust motors. Is the distance so short that 10 awg is fine? I've got a Newport 55 that has only 10 awg going to the motor - this seems small to me? Thanks AKS! Great videos man I really love how you lay everything out!

[@Aksmaniyak]

You are welcome! I have always used 10G Marine Grade in my builds. That wire can handle more amps than the less expensive ones. There is a point where the length does become a factor where a larger wire diameter is needed.

[@jimwoodmansee]

Great video! I like yours better than others; could you install a kill switch? Would it be difficult?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks James. I have other videos using kill switches/boxes.

[@jimkeeling]

Which one is better than 15 khm?

[@rikkiboy7]

Thanks so much for your answer! Yes that is exactly what I was asking. And frying the motor is exactly what I want to avoid. Love your videos! Cheers!

[@Aksmaniyak]

Glad to help!

[@thebear1974]

Hi Aks, Me again, I like the clear plastic lid but somepeople say that causes a greenhouse effect which raises the internal box temperature. Do you find that to be so?

[@Aksmaniyak]

It didn't matter on this build because it will be used for testing only. All my other boxes are either gray or black.

[@thebear1974]

Thanks for replying.. I was think of using a clear lid so I won't have to cut into it and I could see the halo amp Meter. What do you think? I'm going to run a separate smaller 8 wire control, to my seat.

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@thebear1974 It should be ok.

[@TiggsTailsFishing]

Is there anyway to rig the voltage meter reader so that it turns off when you turn off the power? Because when I rigged it the way you did it stays on

[@Aksmaniyak]

You could but it doesn't draw much amps. You could also just get a volt meter with an on/off switch already on it. Amazon sells them.

[@TiggsTailsFishing]

@@Aksmaniyak Thank you brother I’m all rigged up and ready to go

[@Aksmaniyak]

Great!

[@helicopterjohns]

Very nice setup!!!!!! I have seen the 60 AMP with reversing relays but have never tried one. Let me know how it performs for you with an on water test. I really like the volt/amp meter. Also the power meter included with the PWM gives you a more accurate reading that just turning the pot and guessing where you are at with the power. I recently saw a similar PWM that was rated for 100 amps. Not needed in that particular application but nice to know one is available. John

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks John. I have used this PWM before on a kayak water test and it worked just fine. You are right that this should make the current draw vs % power much more accurate.

[@MrVulcan1500]

I have a minnkota 55 and even though its rated at 60 amps i,ve burnt up two of those pwm modules

[@stephenbusey1295]

If using a PWM, do you still need to add a fuse or circuit breaker for the trolling motor?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Yes, circuit breaker is better.

[@jimbryant84]

Thank you for all the helpful videos. I have one question. While using a PMW, what do i do with the white and yellow wires coming out of the trolling motor? Are they eliminated?

[@Aksmaniyak]

You are welcome Jim. Just cap off the yel/wht/ wires. I started a new FB page which makes it easier to share info. Here is the link if you are interested. facebook.com/groups/3521517597860461

[@colinmills3295]

Nicely Done....Putting an order together to build same. List OK and Marine 10awg OK / Waterproof Cable Gland nut size? I made a best estimate Size M50 x 1.5"length.

[@colinmills3295]

Correction: uxcell M16 Cable Gland 4 Holes Waterproof IP68 Nylon Joint Adjustable Locknut for 2.4-3.4mm Dia Wire

[@Aksmaniyak]

Yes 10G is what I used. I'm not sure of the gland nut size because I bought an assortment. Just measure the diameter of the four 10G wires touching each other.

[@joatmofa0405]

Thanks for a nice video. Appreciated! Just a quick question : If you were to add an ammeter on the motor +pos (red) wire - would it read the same as the ammeter from the battery?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks! Yes, it should be pretty close.

[@rikkiboy7]

I'm hoping you will help me. I have your exact set up on my kayak project---exactly as you have yours with same PWM but not the 2 meters. My Question is: I want to feed it with 18 Volt battery packs and want to know if that will end up changing the voltage that arrives at my 12 volt motor and damage something? My PWM is rated 12/24/36/48V (in?) but I cannot find any documents as to what comes out. Any help in this matter would be greatly appreciated.

[@Aksmaniyak]

I have only used a 12V source with that PWM and it puts out 12V for the trolling motor. The PWM will handle 18V but it will put out 18V. So, if your motor and related electronics are set up for 12V they will probably fry. Is that what you are asking?

[@JonathanStrait]

Very cool! How did you mount the smaller LED display? (For the PWM output) Is it under the clear case or did you cut a hole? I think I've got the same PWM and can't figure how to install this LED output gauge since it seems to have no protective cover. Thanks!

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks. I used a thin layer of marine goop on the display face and attached it inside the clear lid.

[@oscarsifuentes6427]

Hello I am right in the middle of making my own PWM speed controller and I want to make one just like yours , where do I get the clear box or do you have a part number for it? It looks so nice and I would rather use that than a grey outlet box. Now remember I am a rookie at this but I want to make it work will the electrical connections to the PWM be identified as to where to connect it too? I guess I could purchase this at a radio shack ? I think they closed them out here. Thank you so much for your help Im 66 years old, a vet, had cancer, right hip replacement, I need all the help I can get! Thank you

[@Aksmaniyak]

Hi Oscar. First thank you for your service. I have a lot of respect for our Vets. The parts are listed in the narrative. You can get the PWM from Amazon and ebay. When you choose your PWM, there should be a close up picture showing the connections.

[@rortoli]

Cool project. Can you share your parts list?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks Rob. The parts are listed in the narrative.

[@michaelflores369]

Did you cut shaft down and only run blk/red wires to control box, or leave head unit on?

[@Aksmaniyak]

I cut down the shaft and only used the black and red wires. I used a PVC 90 on top of shaft.

[@jimmynicolasvandenbe]

Great video! Just tested my pwm controller, the same you have. But.. The trolling motor just spins slowly at just one speed. Can't adjust the speed. And the motor won't work in the reverse mode. Then I switched the positive and the negative motor wires on the pwm. Now the reverse mode works, but still motor runs very slowly and I still can't adjust the speed. I have a fully charged 3 s li ion 12v 100ah accu.. Earlier I used a 60a pwm controller, everything worked perfect.. Do I have a bad pwm or something else... Hope you have some kind of an answer😬 Regards from the Netherlands.

[@Aksmaniyak]

Hi Jimmy, I have never had that problem. It could be a bad PWM or switch.

[@ronscala8953]

Can you enclose pwm in a small box air tight or do you need to vent to prevent overheating

[@Aksmaniyak]

I use a larger size waterproof box and raise the PWM on rubber grommets. That allows for better air flow.

[@nathanieleasonbign81970]

What did you use to drill the holes on the clear top plate?

[@WaynJul]

Nice control center build. I helped my friend install a digital speed control and he likes it.

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks Wayn. It will make field testing more accurate.

[@reefcrazy32]

Hi love this video, I know that this setup is with the 60A but would the 100A work with the 30lb thrus minn KotaC2?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Yes it would but be careful because most of the PWMs that list them as 100A are for sudden peak amps. They are usually 60A continuous amp draw.

[@reefcrazy32]

Hi again having issues with my pwm, Have the 10-55w 100AH and finally got done installed it with my minn Kota c2 30lb thrus powered by a 55ah lithium battery, tested at home works perfect then went out on the water today worked great for 3 hrs then the pwm started smoking... still have power to the trolling motor but speed variable doesn’t work one runs on 100%... would like to know if youv or hear anything about this issue before? I would love any feed backs thank you...

[@Aksmaniyak]

It is possible you got a bad PWM. I did talk to one person before who said that his PWM got stuck at full speed. I have never had a problem with my builds. Maybe I just got lucky or my box designs have better airflow.

[@reefcrazy32]

@@Aksmaniyak thanks yes mines did get stuck on full speed . But yes I think I got a bad unit from eBay, but I don’t think it’s the air flow due to I had it sit in the open due to it was my first time taking it out. Might just try the 60a an see if that’ll work better. Thanks again!! Have a great night.

[@Aksmaniyak]

Good luck!

[@andreweddy86]

I went through several pwm chips over 2 seasons. They would over heat or constantly trip the 50amp breaker. I had to go back to the stock switch. Any ideas on why it wouldnt last? I use a 45lb motor on a Jackson Big Tuna with the 60amp red pwm chips on ebay.

[@Aksmaniyak]

The 50A breaker might not be large enough. Also, are you using the 60A constant current with 100A surge PWM?

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@andreweddy86 What size wiring are you using on the +,- ?

[@stuartcarrico870]

How is longevity and reliability? I’ve read that these PWM fail pretty quickly....

[@Aksmaniyak]

That is true some do fail quickly. I have been lucky and not had that problem. I think my build design helps with air flow and heat transfer which makes a difference.

[@dcfarouk]

Does it heat up considering the box is sealed with no air circulating around ? hope you update after actual use on water.

[@Aksmaniyak]

This is a third version using the same brand PWM and enclosure. I have already had the previous versions on the water for testing and each worked as designed.

[@dcfarouk]

@@Aksmaniyak Thank you for the reply, it is great that it does not heat up. I have found some PWM come with a fan so that I thought these unit might be heating up excessively.

[@jeffschwartz8538]

What brand specifically is this one? Do you have a link? Thanks!

[@Aksmaniyak]

The units are basically all the same. This model has good specs. www.ebay.com/itm/10-55V-100A-5000W-Reversible-DC-Motor-Speed-Controller-PWM-Control-Soft-Start-US/202576542955?hash=item2f2a80bceb:g:HrkAAOSwydZcTBLF

[@Aksmaniyak]

@@dcfarouk You are welcome. The way I have it mounted and the size of the box help with heat transfer.

[@kpkkids]

What size gland nut did you use for the 4 10ga. wires. JoeB

[@Aksmaniyak]

I don't remember. I bought an assortment of the gland nuts from Amazon.

[@racerxny1380]

Hey Askman, wondering if my wiring is correct.

[@Aksmaniyak]

Is there a problem with it?

[@racerxny1380]

Aksman thanks for responding. Enjoy all your videos and I’m building a box based on them for my trolling motor. I have the basic wiring down pat, but I’m stuck in the accessories like USB and the fuse box. I couldn’t attach a pic to show.

[@GrantOLoyd]

Where did you buy the v/amp meter with the magntic ring? Does it come with wiring instructions for the red and black wires?

[@GrantOLoyd]

Found the volt/amp meter with magnetic coil that you used. I ordered the pwm and meter to duplicate what you did....very nice...thank you www.amazon.com/bayite-Digital-Current-Voltage-Transducer/dp/B01DDQM5PK

[@Aksmaniyak]

You are welcome Grant.

[@danielmiles3276]

I am hoping to replicate what you have done. I'll be using a 55lb Minn Kota. Has your unit had any heat issues? Would you recommend adding a fan in the box if it's being used for long periods of time? Thank you for your response.

[@Aksmaniyak]

Hi Daniel. The unit I used should handle a 55lber. I have never had a heat issue with these boxes. I mount the circuit boards above the base to allow for air flow and the box is oversized to allow for heat transfer.

[@danielmiles3276]

Thank you for the help!

[@ronscala8953]

On the pwm what does the indicator that comes with it tell you?

[@Aksmaniyak]

It is a power output meter.

[@ronscala8953]

As batter runs down will the numbers also get lower, does it reflect batter life?

[@Aksmaniyak]

Yes, as the battery loses power the numbers will go down.

[@ronscala8953]

Thank you for the info .i am going to use your separate switch set up 👍

[@ronscala8953]

Thank you sir, I am going to use your separate switch system 👍

[@johnlafargue8281]

which pwm did you use? i went through a few before I found a good one. yours looks more compact.

[@Aksmaniyak]

That one was a 60A continuous. Amazon and AliExpress sell them. The latest one I am using is a 60A continuous with a built in fan. I have videos on those builds too.

[@MrBumbles2]

what size gland nut you use?

[@buns52557]

Have you went out and tested PMA yet am curious if it might be overheating or not

[@Aksmaniyak]

Hi Dave. Yes I have tested different versions of PWMs with no heat issues.

[@buns52557]

Aksman question about your shunt resistor / Do know if you have to used a shunt resistor on Watt meter logger they used them for solar that will show amps /volts / watts? Thanks

[@Aksmaniyak]

Hi Dave. This design does not use a shunt resistor.

[@buns52557]

Nice Job. l made one similar boxes like yours l using a watt meter instead volt meter it gives Amps & Volt as well watts . My battery is a 30 amp hour Lithium battery the battery's holding up well but am having trouble PMA speed controller it been over heating Especially on a hot days ! and it shut down on me it gets to hot . Have you went out and tested yours yet under load ? Let me know how it's working out . My PWM speed controller it's supposed be rated 60 Amps / l found out one thing the PMA does not like to be enclosed it need air to Cool it down . Thanks Once again you did a nice clean job on your box

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks Dave.

[@byunique2]

This was my concern too, and was thinking if you got a metal waterproof box, at least it can dissipate heat externally

[@MrRoqblok]

Hmmm. 2.x amps eith no load, or resistance of being on water. @50%..

[@jimkeeling]

Where did you order your your box and mod from?

[@Aksmaniyak]

I got it off Amazon.

[@kpkkids]

Where did you get the box for your PWM? Joe B

[@Aksmaniyak]

Hi Joe, I bought it from Amazon.

[@johnrugani9832]

Hey Aksman, another great tutorial!! I have a question maybe you can answer I have a V-max lithium battery. The description reads 12 volt but looking further in the spec. sheet it says nominal Voltage 12.8 could this be an issue For my PWM and my 40lb. Thrust minnkota??

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks John. That voltage should not be a problem. My AGM battery reads about 12.6V when fully charged.

[@johnrugani9832]

Aksman I gave you wrong info. Although they call this a 12 volts the nominal is 14.8 volt. What do you think?

[@Aksmaniyak]

What PWM are you using? Many of them can be used at higher voltages.

[@johnrugani9832]

Aksman They same one you are using in this video also purchased another one which is actually the same without the Percentage meter. Its the one that comes in the aluminum cover.

[@Aksmaniyak]

Go back and check the listing for that one. It is probably rated for 10-60V.

[@jimkeeling]

Do you sell these?

[@Aksmaniyak]

No, I have been asked before but I couldn't warranty the parts.

[@jimkeeling]

What is box size?

[@Aksmaniyak]

The parts are listed in the narrative.

[@jamesfox3784]

Hey Aksman, When you say the volt/ah meter has 3 modes, how are they selected? Is there a switch on the meter itself? Awesome vid with some great info 👌

[@Aksmaniyak]

Thanks James. Yes, there are directions with the unit.

[@jamesfox3784]

@@Aksmaniyak Thanks

[@colinmills3295]

Gland Nut.. 10 awg (2.5882 mm dia.) ...Search: uxcell M16 Cable Gland 4 Holes Waterproof IP68 Nylon Joint Adjustable Locknut for 2.4-3.4mm Dia Wire