Minn Kota Powerdrive- trouble deploying

[Downside]

I just bought a boat with a Powerdrive (74lb, I think). It takes an unreasonable amount of strength and effort to get the motor to deploy. It seems like it should be pretty straightforward- pull back the lever, deploy motor into water. I can't see any defects or objects blocking it. Has anybody else had or seen this problem?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Minn Kota Powerdrive- trouble deploying

Here's the deal. Below are some pictures that illustrate what the problem is. Before you make the mods however, make sure the unit is out of warranty. The changes will not affect that but the Minnkota might not like it should the unit need warranty work. The instructions I provide here were given to me by a Minnkota rep four years ago as I had a similar problem.

The two pictures below show two, tan hard rubber blocks that are compressed when the motor is in the stowed position. Those blocks need to be trimmed a little so they exert less pressure. Use a box cutter to take off 1/16 inch of material on both sides.

This picture shows three areas on the bottom of the steering motor housing. Those three areas need to be ground off a little as shown. Doesn't take much, just 1/16 is sufficient.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Minn Kota Powerdrive- trouble deploying

These fixes do work. I've done 3 of them so far and all I've had to do was take about 1/8th inch off the top of the hard rubber blocks. Makes a big difference.

 

[Downside]

Re: Minn Kota Powerdrive- trouble deploying

Thanks a lot, I'm going to give it a shot tomorrow. I appreciate the help.

 

[bassboy1]

Re: Minn Kota Powerdrive- trouble deploying

I found that by lifting the motor (LU) while pushing it out the first six inches helps a lot. Must lift it off the rubber block or something.