How To Wire 24V Trolling Motor

24V Trolling motor connection w/onboard charging & 5' extension for s from connect-ease.com

Introduction

Fishing enthusiasts know the importance of having a trolling motor installed on their boats. It provides quiet and efficient propulsion, allowing anglers to navigate through the water without scaring away fish. However, the installation of a trolling motor can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with electrical wiring. In this article, we will guide you on how to wire a 24v trolling motor in a fun and informative way.

What You Need

Before we dive into the wiring process, let's first take a look at the materials you will need to install a 24v trolling motor. Here are the items you will need:

Item	Description	Price (in USD)
Trolling motor	Electric motor designed for boats	500-1000
Battery	12v deep cycle marine battery (x2)	100-150 each
Battery charger	12v/24v battery charger	100-200
Circuit breaker	50-amp circuit breaker	20-50
Wire connectors	Marine grade wire connectors	10-20
Wire stripper/cutter	Tool for cutting and stripping wires	10-20
Soldering iron	Tool for soldering wires together	20-50
Heat shrink tubing	Protective tubing for wires	10-20

Wiring Process

Now that you have all the materials you need, let's start with the wiring process. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Mount the trolling motor

Before wiring the trolling motor, you need to mount it on your boat. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to properly install the trolling motor. Make sure it is securely mounted and aligned with the boat's centerline.

Step 2: Connect the batteries in series

To achieve a 24v output, you need to connect two 12v batteries in series. This means that you will connect the positive terminal of one battery to the negative terminal of the other battery. The remaining positive and negative terminals will be connected to the trolling motor.

Step 3: Install the circuit breaker

To protect your trolling motor from electrical overload, install a 50-amp circuit breaker between the batteries and the trolling motor. This will automatically cut off the power supply in case of a short circuit or overload.

Step 4: Connect the wires

Now it's time to connect the wires. Use marine grade wire connectors to connect the positive and negative wires from the batteries to the circuit breaker. Then, connect the positive and negative wires from the circuit breaker to the trolling motor. Make sure you use the appropriate wire gauge for the amperage of your trolling motor.

Step 5: Solder and protect the connections

To ensure a solid connection, solder the wires together. Then, cover the connections with heat shrink tubing to protect them from moisture and corrosion. Use a heat gun to shrink the tubing and seal the connections.

Recommendations

If you are new to wiring a trolling motor, we recommend getting a professional to install it for you. This will ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely. When purchasing a trolling motor, make sure to choose one that is appropriate for your boat's size and weight. Look for features such as variable speed control, digital displays, and GPS compatibility. Investing in a quality battery charger will also extend the life of your batteries and ensure that they are always fully charged.

Conclusion

Wiring a 24v trolling motor may seem intimidating at first, but with the right materials and instructions, it can be done easily and safely. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can install your trolling motor and start enjoying a quiet and efficient fishing experience. Remember to always prioritize safety and invest in quality materials for a long-lasting installation.