Trolling Motor and Battery Question

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Just purchased brand new Terrova w Ipilot (12v, 55 lb thrust), and have an Optima deep cycle battery (about 3 years old).

I was surprised tonight when the trolling motor started to slow after about three hours. Granted, it was windy, and I ran it the entire time.....how long are these motors running for others?? I only have one battery.

Thanks

[newtofishing]

lots of variables to consider- wind like you mentioned- but also how heavy is your boat and how fast were you trolling. 3 hours in rough conditions doesn't seem that far off.

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Correct about the variables....I have a 16.5 ft alumacraft...the wind was pretty stiff and I kept speed about 1.6 to 1.8 mph. I also was using the Ipilot feature (recording a track). The motor ran the whole time and steered constantly as well.

I was just surprised it slowed after three hours but the motor is brand new so maybe I just need to learn the capacities.

[newtofishing]

I found using my copilot feature greatly reduced the battery life in windy conditions - so don't use it very often.

[Ed Carlson]

Your Optima deep cycle battery may have developed a charging memory?

Go to the Optima web site and look up charging and how to rig it to be sure it gets a fresh full charge...it is in the tips section.

I have seen Optima's that were though shot brought back to full life and charging capacity this way. Well worth a shot, it may help.