Trouble shooting a trolling motor

[Scoot]

I own a boat with my brother. He had it out today and says the trolling motor doesn't seem to have the usual amount of "uuummph". Both batteries were fully charged (on charger for 24 hours and tested out at almost 13 volts) and I had them tested last night and both tested out good. So, I don't believe it's the batteries.

What could be the cause of this? My bro said the bullet of the trolling motor (housing right in front of the prop), was warm after use. I've never felt that housing, so I don't know if that's normal or not.

Anyone have any ideas as to what's the likely cause of the motor not having enough zip?

Thanks,

[jerkbait]

Is it 24 volt? I know 1 time on mine 1 of the inline fuses from the battery to the plug in went bad so it only half half the power. Or should I say it reduced it to 12 volt and wouldn't run right. 1 idea.

[CAMAN]

I agree. Check the fuses and all the connections first. Make sure your getting 24 volts to the motor.

[Duffman]

Has the prop been taken off and checked for fishing line lately???

[jwmiller33]

i second the fishing line thing... good chance some fishing line got in the prop and now is spun REAL tight on the shaft, causing a bunch of heat and friction everytime you use the trolling motor and eventually going to (if not already) fry the main shaft seal.. if that happens, water is going to get into the housing and cause all sorts of problems around your armature and bushings. a lot of amateurs dont know this and just let the line sit around the shaft forever and end up ruining the trolling motor, or causing serious damage that costs a lot to fix (considering the price of a trolling motor)

[Northlander]

I 3rd the fishing line thing.