
Have you ever felt like your trolling motor is just not working as it should be? Like, it is lacking that punch which it used to have. Its performance is deteriorating and sluggish. With all this, you are more focused and invested in improving the function of the mother rather than focusing on your fishing. Well, you are not alone because most of us have been in the same boat (no pun intended!)
Trolling motors are one of the essential tools for anglers and fishing enthusiasts. These motors help the boat to propel with ease by fighting the currents smoothly. They provide very precise control in those uneven water currents. But like any other gadget, they, too, need regular maintenance. With some proper TLC, you can bring your old girl back to life and maybe even pull some more seasons out.
Don’t be alarmed thinking about maintenance. This may sound like a lot of work, but it is so simple that you can do it on your own without breaking out the toolbox to dissect the motor. So moving further in this article, we will talk about several ways how you can maintain the peak performance of your trolling motor. Let’s get started:
Table of Contents
ToggleChoose the Right Manufacturer
The first and foremost thing one should do is get your trolling motor from the right and reputable manufacturer. That would make most of the difference. Because there are companies that sell products with low quality and eventually cause distress and frustration to the customers. A minn kota ulterra trolling motor is a great example of a quality product with innovative features and advanced options. Buying from a reputable company will make you less worried about the maintenance, too because these companies also provide instant support for any issues that you face.
Clean Regularly
Since it is mostly operated in water, the trolling accumulates freshwater minerals or can even have saltwater corrosion. This can really impact the performance of the motor. So, it’s important to make sure that you regularly clean the motor after each use. There is not so much to do, though. All you have to do is rinse the motor thoroughly with fresh water while paying attention to its shaft, prop, and other parts. You can also think about getting a freshwater rinse tank to help you with more efficient cleaning.
Inspect Propeller
The propeller is mainly responsible for the boat moving forward with ease. If it is damaged, it can severely impact the movement and speed of the boat while also compromising the efficiency of the motor. Make sure to check the propeller on a regular basis. Replace or repair the propeller if there is any noticeable damage found.
Maintain the Battery
Batteries provide continuous power to the propeller, so it’s important that you maintain the batteries of your trolling motor so that they can provide a constant power supply. Battery terminals, too, get dirty and corroded, so make sure those terminals are clean and free from corrosion. If the batteries use water, check the water level regularly and top off as required. During off-season times, securely store the batteries in a proper manner to prevent any damage during future use.
Check for any Leaks
There are chances that your motor can have leaks due to any damage. Make sure after every expedition, you check for any signs of leaks in the motor housing and seals. These leaks can cause the water to enter the motor and can cause further damage to the internal components. Quickly and promptly address any leaks and make arrangements for the required replacement or repair.
Ensure Professional Maintenance
Still if all the work for maintenance is a hassle for you, consider talking to a professional and schedule regular maintenance for your trolling motor. There are many qualified marine technicians who can help you resolve any issues relating to the performance of the motor and its maintenance. They will check and identify the potential issues and address any repairs or replacements if necessary. Honestly, professional help in the maintenance of your motor can really help you extend the life of your trolling motor and ensure its peak performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, do follow all the guidelines available. With all these above tips, you will be able to maintain your motor in good condition. Also, make sure that you always refer to the manual that is provided by the manufacturer for specific issues and the maintenance of the motor. Make sure you properly follow the guidelines, as those guidelines will provide the most precise and updated information about the specific model.
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