Load testing a Terrova??

[azbohunter]

Is there a way to test amperage being drawn on a 80# 24V Terrova. My motor is maybe 6 or 7 years old, my batteries are newer X2 Batteries Plus size 31. It just doesn't seem like I am getting near the run time out of them that I should be and a lot less hours than I used to get. I only have a Multi meter that reads, volts, amps and ohms. I tried simply hooking leads onto one lead of trolling motor and got nothing.

[Hot Runr Guy]

Unfortunately, DC ammeters are a lot less common than AC versions. You might want to start calling auto parts stores and see if they have one you could borrow/rent, so you can check amp draw while in-use. My Fluke VOM's are only good up to 10amps DC, when they blow an internal fuse.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Dc8VH0eXcs

HRG

[azbohunter]

HRG..thanks. Maybe I should just run by a MinnKota service place?

[cyber16]

Are you local to the north metro of Minneapolis?
If so you are welcome to use mine

[azbohunter]

Originally Posted by cyber16

Are you local to the north metro of Minneapolis?
If so you are welcome to use mine

That is very generous of you but I am actually a little south of you and some west, Glendale, AZ

[Hot Runr Guy]

Originally Posted by azbohunter

That is very generous of you but I am actually a little south of you and some west, Glendale, AZ

Road trip!

If you have a Minn-Kota repair shop near you, I imagine they could load-test it.

HRG

[azbohunter]

Originally Posted by Hot Runr Guy

Road trip!

If you have a Minn-Kota repair shop near you, I imagine they could load-test it.

HRG

I guess that is where I'll go, thanks!
As always, great guys on this site!

[3M TA3]

You didn't say what the voltage across the batteries is. Since you have a meter, check that. What voltage are you measuring 12 to 24 hours after charging?

[azbohunter]

Originally Posted by 3M TA3

You didn't say what the voltage across the batteries is. Since you have a meter, check that. What voltage are you measuring 12 to 24 hours after charging?

I had checked the battery voltage and I did again this morning. One battery seemed to run down faster than the other but it still checked 13.2 volts after sitting off charger overnight. I decided to pull it anyway and have it tested at Batteries Plus, it was one of there X2 batteries (I have 3) and they have a full replacement 4 year warranty. I had one replaced in July this year, it was 3 years 8 months old, gave me a new battery no questions, no hassles. The battery today was less than 3 years old and it was bad when load tested. Walked out with a new battery, no hassles. I bought these batteries because of the reviews on them and the 4 year full replacement warranty. They are expensive at $300 but in this case, after 3 years I have two new batteries.
I wonder if living in Arizona where these batteries are exposed to extreme heat for a few months, has a negative impact on them. I know that automotive batteries life cycle is shortened because of the heat, I woiuld expect the same for boat use.
I am not happy having to replace batteries but am extremely pleased with the no hassle and excellent customer service at Batteries Plus.

[whip2]

So, I take it, this was the problem and it wasn't the motor???