bow thruster working part-time

[scorpion]

The bow thruster on my 2013 R27 has been working only part time. I do not attempt to run it more than 2 to 4 seconds at a time but have been experiencing time when it works a few times, then has no response them a few seconds later decides it will work. It acts as if there is a relay type device tripping then resetting later. Stern thruster does not act this way. Can you advise how to track this down?
M Trachta

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

The bow thruster on our 2012 R27 started to act like you describe, then it went to only working to starboard. I went thru the diagnostics steps they recommend to isolate the problem (on ours) down to the solinode in the thruster. This may or may not be the problem you have but if you run thru the many steps they provide in the troubleshooting steps you should be able to isolate the problem. I'd also check the connects at the helm control to make sure they are properly connected. I have the troubleshoot manual but not familiar with how to post on Tugnuts. If you'd PM me I'd be more then happy to send the file along to you....or someone else can post it here for you.

Jim F

 

[TBates]

The first place to check will be the thruster fuse, located inside the battery compartment. I would check to make sure you have battery voltage on both sides of the fuse, and that there's no apparent corrosion. There is also a large gauge positive and negative wire installed on the motor itself, I would ensure these connections are tight. Does the issue only occur when using the joystick, or the remote control as well? If you're able to unscrew the joystick panel, and lift it straight up you'll find both thruster connections below to check those. There is also a plastic connector by the thruster motor which can be easily inspected. The thruster itself has a plastic cover on top of it, which is removable by unscrewing the two plastic nuts on the top, underneath you'll find the controller and solenoid which could potentially need replaced. If none of these suggestions fix the problem, please feel free to email me directly and I'd be happy to troubleshoot via email or phone.

Tim Bates
timbates@rangertugs.com