Maintaining Your Transom Mount Motor

Updated July 23, 2025 16:20

This article give maintenance steps for you Minn Kota Electric Steer Motor

After use, the entire motor should be rinsed with freshwater.

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Transom Prop Maintenance

The Prop must be inspected and cleaned from weeds and fishing line after every use. Fishing line and weeds can get behind the Prop, damage the seals and allow water to enter the motor.

Disconnect the motor from all sources of power prior to changing the Prop.
Hold the Prop and loosen the Prop Nut with a pliers or a wrench.
Remove the Prop Nut and Prop Washer.
Turn the old Prop to horizontal and pull it straight off. If the Drive Pin falls out, push it back in.
Align the new Prop with the Drive Pin.
Install the Prop Washer and Prop Nut.
Tighten the Prop Nut 1/4 turn past snug at 25-35 inch-lbs.

Video Removing Prop, Inspecting Prop, and Drive Pin

Video Guide: How to Replace or Install a Trolling Motor Prop

In this video, we will show you how to replace or install a new trolling motor propeller, inspect the drive pin and lower unit seal, and a few tips for trolling motor props. The process is very simple and only requires minimal tools.

Purchase replacement parts here

Key times in the video

Shaft Maintenance, Lubricating, and Cleaning

The Shaft requires periodic cleaning and lubrication for proper retraction and deployment. A coating of an aqueous based silicone spray will improve operation.

*Do not spray water into the ventilation openings in the head of the motor.

* Minn Kota does not recommend using oil-based lubricants like WD-40 because oil based sprays will attract dirt and debris that can cause issues.

Disconnect the connections to battery.
To lubricate your shaft, wipe the shaft with a rag or paper towel with the Pledge or Armor-All on it or spray the shaft down with the spray and wipe it to evenly coat the shaft.
For prolonged storage, lightly coat all metal parts with an aqueous based silicone spray

Shaft Cleaning and Lubricating Video

Trolling Motor Battery Maintenance

Disconnect the connections to battery.
To keep battery terminals clean with fine sandpaper or emery cloth.
For maximum battery life recharge the battery(s) as soon as possible after use. For maximum motor performance restore battery to full charge prior to use.
When reconnecting terminals ensure connections are tight and batteries are secured.

Battery Inspection and Charging Video

Mount and Bracket Maintenance

Inspect the clamp screws, bracket, and depth collar before and after each use to ensure they are secure for transporting.

Depth Collar Maintenance

Tightening the Depth Collar Knob

The Depth Collar Knob is tightened by turning the knob clockwise and loosen by turning the knob counter clockwise.
- - NOTE: The Depth Collar and steering tension should be secured against the bracket when transporting the motor to prevent accidental deployment.

Lower Unit Paint Maintenance

Important: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines for each product listed below.

Remove all loose paint
1. Remove any loose paint by scraping it off.
2. Sand the area to be painted with a medium grit sandpaper and blend in areas where the paint and substrate meet.
Clean the area to be painted (VERY IMPORTANT)
1. A strong cleaner (paint thinner) that removes dirt and oils and does not leave any residue will work best.
2. Before painting wiping the area with isopropyl alcohol to remove any remaining residues and moisture.
Apply Primer Coating
1. Use an epoxy-based primer. This will give the strongest adhesion and corrosion resistance.
2. Allow primary to dry completely per the manufacturer instructions.
Apply Final Coating
- Use an Acrylic based top coat. Acrylic spray paints offer UV resistance as well as durability. Again, the surface should be clean, dry, and free of any residues.

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