trolling motor plug

[tilem]

I have a Minnkota v-2 and it is 24 volt. I have a problem with the male plug shorting out then i must replace the plug at $20 a shot. Have went thru 4 in a year. It doesn't really seem to be a problem with running at any particular speed or length of time just from time to time I will go to start it up and it is dead. Wish there was some constant that would help identify the problem. My question is does has anyone else experienced this or is it a function of the plug to protect the motor?

[5 BASS LIMIT]

You need to check the amperage rating on the plug you are using. You might be pulling more power than the plug is rated for.

[groundloop]

IMHO (I'm an electrical engineer so I've dealt with a few troublesome electrons before ) trolling motor plugs are a pain in the rear and are a major weak link in the system. I don't have a plug on my boat anymore, just spliced the wires with split bolts from Home Depot and wrapped each with a generous amount of electrical tape. The wires are secured with a clamp where the plug used to be, it actually looks quite good.

I don't really see any useful purpose for that plug anyway - my trolling motor is pretty much there to stay so why worry about being able to unplug it. I've got a breaker next to the battery, when I'm done fishing the breaker gets turned off. If I ever do need to remove the trolling motor it won't be too difficult to remove the splices.

Also, make sure your wire to the trolling motor is large enough. My boat's previous owner had wired it using #12 wire, with about 5 butt splices between the battery and trolling motor. I replaced that mess with #6 wire and at top speed it definitely pulls the boat better now.

[tilem]

Thanks for the input. I have started removing the blade and getting rid of the mono wrapped around the shaft weekly and that has helped some. Next project direct with an inline fuse. thanks