Remote controlled Minn-Kota issue

[Wingedwheel]

Hey all and thanks for any help in advance. I just bought a boat thats equipped with a 36lb thrust Minn Kota remote controlled pedal. the problem I'm having is it only runs in top speed no matter where I set the speed control slider. Could I have a bad slider switch? Is there a way to take it apart and check or clean it? I'm very good with electronics, I just wondered if this is a common problem before I take the pedal apart.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Remote controlled Minn-Kota issue

Take the pedal apart and you will very quickly learn why you have no speed control. The PC board has a membrane on top of it on which the speed control slider works agains. Those "heavy footed" fisherpeople tend to do the STOMP on these pedals and puncture the membranes. That lets moisture between the board and membrane and contacts no longer function. The resistor for speed control is a resistive element on the pc board and is not replaceable. A new foot control is $75 - $90 depending on where you shop and the board is nearly as much as the entire unit. Since you are good with electronics, you could rig up an alternate speed control using a potentiometer.

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Remote controlled Minn-Kota issue

That's what I figured. Now to see how to get the pedal apart. I took the four bolts loose on the back, but it seemed something was still holding it. That's a project for a rainy day.