24V wiring problems

[Dave in Mpls]

Well, I had the new (to me) rig out for it's maiden fishing voyage last weekend. My problems started about half way through the day while I was running the 24V 74# Maxxum - I blew a fuse on one of the + battery terminals. Upon inspection, the wire was warm to the touch. When I pulled the fuseable link apart, the fuse was literally shattered. I could not remove the metal "bottom" portion of the fuse, as the fuseable link had actually melted and encased the fuse end.

The 74# Maxxum has never seemed to operate to its full potential, as the 48# on the bow would kick the snott out of the 74# in a footrace!

I am planning on replacing all four inline fuses with circuit breakers, but am more concerned about finding the cause of the problem. It is either a problem with the motor or with the wireing (obviously!), and would certainly be interested in any comments you would be willing to share!!

Regards

As an aside, the first (and only) fish over the gunnel was a walleye!!

[Hogger]

Check the wire, if it's not 6 gauge pull it and rewire using the right wire. Next check each of the connectors and make sure they have been soldered on, if not go to West Marine or Boat US or your nearest dealer and get new lugs and solder them on, both ends, all wires.

Obvious is the need to replace that fuse but be thankful it did the job. Clean your trolling motor plug and socket thoroughtly to remove any grease, oil, or dirt that may be creating resistance. Other than that, good luck.

[Hogger]

One more item I forgot, check the 24V jumper on your trolling motor plug. Sometimes people forget to screw it down tight and you can get a lot of resistance building up that way. If the plug connectors are oxidized, or carboned up, replace the plug.

[Hans]

Are you sure the motor is wired right?

A blown fuse and warm wire are both screaming "OVERCURRENT".

Perhaps the plug/socket/wiring/whatever is set up to give 12V to the motor (in which case it would be sluggish and draw too much current).

Hans

--
"There is nothing ; absolutely nothing; half so much worth doing,
as simply messing about in boats."

:-)

[KIRK]

I HAD A PROBLEM LIKE THAT AND IT TURNED OUT THAT ONE BANK ON MY ONBOARD CHARGER WAS BURNED OUT AND CAUSED THE PROBLEM

[spampy]

If the wire got as hot as you say and melted the fuse holder,its sounds like a dead short.Chek all conections and the insulation on the leads.