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Mount the motor using its four bolts, applying generous amounts of sealant around its mounting flange. Be sure to grease the nuts and bolts. Before final tightening, spin the prop by hand to be sure it turns easily.
The motor is now hanging by its mounting bolts, which will overstress the transom and mounting flange unless the weight of the motor is supported. We fiberglassed in a wood bracket with a block and shims under the motor. Locate a convenient place at the helm station for the joystick. Be sure that there is rear access and at least 5" of clearance. Drill a 3" hole, then slip on the supplied foam gasket and mount. If the location is exposed to the weather, additional sealant is recommended. Connect the joystick to the motor with the wiring harness, supporting the run at least every 1'6".
WIRING: Install a dedicated 12-volt battery as close to the thruster's motor as possible. Mount the 250-amp fuse holder between the battery and the motor. Remove the motor's cover to expose the positive terminal. Run a length of red AWG 000 cable from the battery's positive terminal to the fuse holder and another length from the fuse to the motor. Run yellow AWG 000 cable from the battery's negative terminal battery to the motor. Use crimped ring terminals with heat-shrink tubing.
WATCH YOUR TRIM: This system weighs a hefty 44 pounds, plus the additional nearby battery. This much weight concentrated at the transom can affect your trim. Check your painted boot stripe after the installation.
WHAT'S A Waterline? When placing the template on the waterline, be sure to use the actual waterline, not the boot stripe. The actual waterline is the scum mark left on the transom after sitting in the water for a season.
PAINT? Do not paint the prop. It is finely machined and balanced and will clean itself every time it is activated. The thruster tunnel is fiberglass and must be painted.
CHARGE IT: When installing the dedicated battery, be sure to wire it into a charging source. No charge, no thrust.
DEDICATED BATTERY: • Deep-cycle battery in covered box with external strapping with no more than 1" movement in any direction. • Cover the positive terminal with cable cap. • Keep out of areas that exceed 1200F. • Never put above a fuel tank, fuel filter, or fuel line fitting. • Any metallic fuel system component within a foot must be electrically insulated.
