View Full Version : Minnkota autopilot issues
cat-n-eye
03-26-2009, 04:46 PM
I have two powerdrive minnkotas with autopilots (seperate boats). I like them when they work correctly. After a while of driving on their own they all of a sudden start turning in a circle. If i'm rigging a rod or something and don't catch it right away, they will literally rap the cord around the shaft and eventually rip the cord out of the base, and possible run the boat into something. Does anybody know what my problem is? Wire connections are new, batteries are new.
JerryA
03-26-2009, 05:13 PM
My motor will do this if the batteries are getting pretty low. The rougher the water, the more likely it is to happen. Once I recharge the batteries it goes away. One time it was doing it and I didn't think the batteries were low. Took it to a factory tech, he tested it and couldn't find anything wrong. The problem went away, of course. I think if you have weak/old batteries it can contribute to this happening - test your batteries if they're old. Make sure all the connections in your TM electrical system are clean and tight - put some dielectic grease on them. Bad connections could cause this intermitently especially in rough water. Also, check the archives. Some people have had bad cards so it may not be just the batteries. These motors can be real aggravating but I wouldn't be without mine.
Bobberballs
03-26-2009, 06:14 PM
Make sure the base of the unit is level at the bow as the boat sits in the water as well (may need to be shimmed).
rabbit
03-26-2009, 10:29 PM
Send to Minn Kota. Sounds like your compass is not in sinc if the above trouble shooting isn't it. I had to send my old 74PD in and Minn Kota had only about a one week turn around. They stood behind their product for me... You can also call for a Tech at 1-800-227-6433
rabbit
03-26-2009, 10:30 PM
Even when they are working correctly very low batteries will create the uncontrollable spin...
boat nut
03-27-2009, 10:26 AM
In addition to what Jerry states, the older PDs have an adjustable compass board, and it sometimes needs it. The newer PDs, and the Terrova have a liquid filled compass that is not adjustable. It usually starts "hunting" for a direction before it starts spinning around. If you need the adjustment procedure, PM me & I'll e-mail it to you.