Posted 8/25/2015 6:31 PM (#781910) Subject: Terrova smoking at plug
Posts: 489
I was running my terrova today at a full "10" when smoke started poring from the plug. Luckily it was noticed and I unplugged right away. Any idea what would cause this? It's a 36v 101lb terrova prob 4 years old.
Posted 8/25/2015 9:20 PM (#781945 - in reply to #781910) Subject: RE: Terrova smoking at plug
Posts: 43
That is definitely evidence of a loose connection. Once the arcing starts the heat will transfer through the copper and start melting the insulation. Strip the wire back, make sure you twist the strands tight and secure the termination.
Posted 8/26/2015 4:51 AM (#781974 - in reply to #781945) Subject: RE: Terrova smoking at plug
Posts: 410
Location: With my son on the water
That appears to be a Marinco Plug which are commonly used by boat manufactures. I learned Marinco Plugs are only rated for 40 amps and an 80 lb terrova which is a 24 volt draws 56 amps at full speed. (see the problem)
I had the exact same issue with my Tuffy so I upgraded to a Battery Tender Plug which is rated for 100 amp and 4 gage wire and soldered all the connections. (I checked the amp/length chart and 6 was questionable with the length I am running, I also put a master shutoff under my console). I haven't had a problem since.
I added the shutoff switch so I can easily turn off power to the TM which Minn Kota tells you to do when you are charging. I learned that chargers can emit some stray voltage or a voltage spike (not sure) which can damage the master circuit board in you TM.
Posted 8/27/2015 11:51 AM (#782179 - in reply to #781974) Subject: RE: Terrova smoking at plug
Posts: 5874
btfish - 8/26/2015 4:51 AM
That appears to be a Marinco Plug which are commonly used by boat manufactures. I learned Marinco Plugs are only rated for 40 amps and an 80 lb terrova which is a 24 volt draws 56 amps at full speed. (see the problem)
I had the exact same issue with my Tuffy so I upgraded to a Battery Tender Plug which is rated for 100 amp and 4 gage wire and soldered all the connections. (I checked the amp/length chart and 6 was questionable with the length I am running, I also put a master shutoff under my console). I haven't had a problem since.
I added the shutoff switch so I can easily turn off power to the TM which Minn Kota tells you to do when you are charging. I learned that chargers can emit some stray voltage or a voltage spike (not sure) which can damage the master circuit board in you TM.
Ditto The wire likely loosened up over time, and the high resistance short created the heat. Good move to go to a higher rated plug and receptacle.
I make it a point to periodically check all connections and bolts on my boats and trailers. Saves grief like this from happening.
Terrova smoking at plug
