CAUTIONS
BATTERY
6
BATTERY INFORMATION:
The motor will operate with any deep cycle marine 12 volt battery/batteries. For best results use a deep
cycle, marine battery with at least a 115 ampere hour rating. As a general on the water estimate, your
12 volt motor will draw one ampere per hour and your 24 volt motor will draw .75 ampere per hour for
each pound of thrust produced when the motor is running on high. The actual ampere draw is subject
to your particular environmental conditions and operation requirements. Maintain battery at full charge.
Proper care will ensure having battery power when you need it, and will significantly improve the battery
life. Failure to recharge lead-acid batteries (within 12-24 hours) is the leading cause of premature battery
failure. Use a variable rate charger to avoid overcharging.
If you are using a crank battery to start a gasoline outboard, we recommend that you use a separate deep
cycle marine battery/batteries for your Minn Kota trolling motor.
Advice regarding batteries:
Never connect the (+) and the (–) terminals of the battery together. Take care that no metal object
can fall onto the battery and short the terminals. This would immediately lead to a short and utmost
fire danger.
Recommendation: Use battery boxes and covered battery terminal clamps like Minn Kota accessory #MK-
BC-1.
Attention:
•Avoid running your motor with the propeller outside of the water. This may result in injuries from the rotat-
ing propeller.
•It is recommended to set the speed selector to zero and place the motor in the deployed position prior to
connecting power cables. Disconnect power cables prior to stowing.
•Always ensure that the power cables are not twisted or kinked; and that they are securely routed to avoid a
safety or trip hazard. Ensure cables are unobstructed in all locations to avoid damaging the wire insula-
tion. Damage to the insulation could result in failure or injury.
•Always inspect the insulation of the power cables prior to use to ensure they are not damaged.
•Disregarding these safety precautions may result in an electrical short of the battery(s) and/or motor.
Always disconnect the motor from the battery(s) before cleaning or checking the propeller.
•Avoid submerging the complete motor as water may enter the lower unit through control head and shaft.
Water in the lower unit may cause an electrical short and damage the lower unit. This damage will not be
covered by warranty.
Caution!
•Always operate the motor in a safe distance away from obstructions. Never approach the motor when the
propeller is running. Contact with a spinning propeller may endanger you or others.
•Always exercise safe practices when using your motor; stay clear of other watercrafts, swimmers, and any
floating objects. Always obey water regulations applicable to your area of operation.
•Never operate the motor while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication, or other substances which
may impair your ability to safely operate equipment.
•This motor is not suitable for use in strong currents exceeding the thrust level of the motor.
The constant noise pressure level of the motor during use is less than 70dB(A). The overall vibration level
does not exceed 2,5m/sec≈.
Summary of Contents for Riotide SP
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