SIDESHIFT INSTALLATION GUIDE
V1.7
21
MAINTENANCE
Sideshift thrusters are designed for long life, provided proper maintenance
procedures are followed.
WARNING:
When working near or on the Sideshift thruster, always switch off
the thruster at both circuit breakers, located on the motor
controller.
Motor Unit
Sideshift thrusters are designed to be very low maintenance. The unit is sealed and
requires no lubrication.
Air Line
Check the condition of the air line regularly. Check line on the outside and inside of
the boat to ensure it is not kinked, pinched or damaged in any way that might block
it or cause a leak. Make sure the exposed end in the hull is in a dry location.
Battery
Ensure batteries are always fully charged. Unlike other battery technologies such
as NiCad, batteries should be lightly cycled. Avoid discharging beyond 75%
capacity and even less if possible. To verify charge, measure the terminal
voltage of the battery with
no load
, and refer to the chart below to determine
the health of your battery:
Voltage
Specific Gravity
Approximate Charge*
>14.4
Over-charging**
>13.38
Charging
12.62
1.265
100%
12.54
1.251
90%
12.45
1.236
80%
12.4
1.225
75% ***
12.27
1.206
60%
12.18
1.19
50%
11.97
1.155
25%
11.76
1.12
0%
Table 1: Terminal voltage vs. battery capacity
