Xi5 side plates

[Lmbkiller]

Was in Canada last week. Bout day 3 noticed some small black plastic pieces on the bow and bow deck. Thought that was interesting. Started inspection of trolling motor and noticed left hand side plate was loose. Took flash lite, looked in there, where each of the 2 screws hold the plate on, the plastic molding was basically crumbling and disintegrating. I almost lost the plate in the drink. I said wtf to myself motor is 4 weeks old. I thought it was some internal heat but the screws weren't even warm. Anyone have this problem too? And if yes, how did u go about getting a new side plate?

[Shellback]

Well the side plates have to be removed to install the motor. If you found them loose, you need to look to the installer. If there was crumbling of plastic it could be due to the loose plate and interference when deploying and stowing the motor. If it wasn't an installation error and was a bad batch of plastic, I'm sure M/G will send out a new plate. They will probably want to see the old one.

[lunker2]

Possible that the installer did not get the tab on the back of the side plate in the slot and if left on the outside it got broke off when the screws where tightened. Or the plate binding up on the mount.

[Lmbkiller]

I installed it and both things u guys mention didn't happen. I spent lots of time and was thorough about the install. That's why I'm baffled

[Shellback]

I think you need to contact Motorguide. There's always a chance of the plate being defective. I doubt Motorguide is going to give you a hard time about replacing a plastic side cover.