Riptide 74 - loses power momentarily

[samiam]

I've came across the chance to purchase a RT 74 lb, but it has a problem. The current owner says it sometimes loses power for no apparent reason. He says no noticeable loss in runtime on the batteries. He changes up the speed occassionally and that's how he usually defeats the dying. After dying, it comes back right away. I'm out of town, unable to get my hands on the motor for a couple weeks. Anyone out there familiar with the RT motor have any speculations about what's occurring here? Or perhaps some other key things I should ask about? I know this is very broad, but hoped someone might have already been through this rodeo. Thanks very much.

[Splash]

First thought would be to check all of the cables from battery to motor for good connections. My 101 seemed to cut out periodically and it turned out to be a loose cable wire at the quick disconnect. While it is differen't than what you are describing, checking the cables should always be the first thing you do. It's easy and generally solves most problems. Also make sure you are using a heavy enough gage of wire for the job.

[samiam]

Thanks Splash. I could see how the current owner's "jiggling of the handle" could re-establish electrical contacts, and be interpreted as the "fix". The thought of loose cables crossed my mind as well, especially if someone had reversed the head in the past. Quick disconnects are always susceptible to wear.

[NWaddict]

sounds like the riptide my buddy used to have. Those kinds of problems are usually related to the circuitry components inside the head. Ollie damons can usually fix them but it probably wouldn't be cheap.

-Dom

[samiam]

ollie D told me about $200 for the circuit board. or maybe it's the lower unit at the prop, which would be about $200. Or perhaps the tiller mechanism, the cheapest part on the actual unit, about $85. I'll hold out hope for loose wires!

[samiam]

by the way, only warranted for 3 years to the original owner with receipt, apparently.

[willierower]

Circuitry!! Those Minn Kota motors are total garbage!! Mine screwed up once before and it was fixed under warranty. It has less than 5 hours on it since it was fixed and its already screwing up! You would think for $500.00 you could by a quality product, nope. Just high priced CRAP!!!!!! Save your money and buy a 2 stroke gas engine.