piper
New Member
Posts: 727 
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Post by piper on Jan 14, 2014 9:19:58 GMT -5
Greetings guys. I just had a random question. I'm looking at upgrading my basic foOt controlled trolling motor to a wireless unit. Several of the one that Ilooked at recommend a 50 amp breaker. When I installed my basic foot control I don't remember installing a breaker. I just have a hardwired to the battery. Am I risking anything here would love your feedback.
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Post by mwardncsu on Jan 14, 2014 9:39:46 GMT -5
EVERY wire in you boat needs to be protected by either a fuse or a breaker. Otherwise you risk the potential of the wire catching on fire and burning down your boat and who knows what else.
The Trolling motor is likely the 2nd largest current-sink of anything on your boat outside the outboard. Trolling motor plugs are notorious for crapping out with lose connections, with create resistance and then heat.
ABSOLUTELY put a breaker on your trolling motor wire.
Per ABYC "code", any wire should be protected within 7" of the voltage source (battery in this case), or as absolutely close as practical to do so. Also make sure the wire you are using (for both the positive voltage size as well as the ground return) is sized for the current draw. Larger trolling motors pull lots of current - the 80 lb thrust TM draws around 56 amps - 40-50 lb thrust motors still draw around 40 amps. Make sure you use the right tables to size the wire accordingly for the load as well as the distance (which results in voltage drop). And then size the breaker to protect the WIRE.
I'd expect the manual for your TM would tell you what size wire to use and what size breaker - but if in question, give Ben over at Smith Mountain Marine Electronics a call - or I can probably help you out here if you have all the details on the motor, the distance of the wire run from the battery to the TM, etc.
This is one of those areas were you don't want to skimp for $30 or $40....
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Post by mwardncsu on Jan 14, 2014 9:42:11 GMT -5
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piper
New Member
Posts: 727
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Post by piper on Jan 14, 2014 10:35:00 GMT -5
Wow...thanks a bunch
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Post by grasscutter on Jan 14, 2014 11:05:01 GMT -5
I agree...mine are located at the battery....fairly easy install
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Post by Pete D. on Jan 14, 2014 15:13:33 GMT -5
Pipes, I get my 50amp breakers from the local Walmart. They are only around $7, and are in the marine section.
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piper
New Member
Posts: 727
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Post by piper on Jan 15, 2014 13:46:19 GMT -5
Great Sutor..that'll be my next purchase then..appreciate all the feedback guys!
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