Watersnake T18 ASP 18 lb. Thrust 12V Electric Trolling Motor User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, installation, and maintenance of your Watersnake T18 ASP 18 lb. Thrust 12V Electric Trolling Motor. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the motor to ensure proper function and to prevent damage or injury.

Safety Information

Warning: Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in electric shock, fire, serious injury, or death.

• Always disconnect the motor from the battery before cleaning, inspecting, or performing any maintenance.
• Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent short circuits.
• Do not operate the motor if the propeller is obstructed or if the motor is damaged.
• Keep hands, feet, and clothing clear of the propeller at all times, especially when the motor is running.
• Use only a 12-volt deep cycle marine battery with a minimum capacity of 35 Ah.
• Never immerse the control head or electrical connections in water.
• Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when operating a boat.
• Be aware of your surroundings and other watercraft.
• Do not modify the motor in any way. Unauthorized modifications can void the warranty and create safety hazards.

Product Overview

The Watersnake T18 ASP is a compact and efficient electric trolling motor designed for small watercraft such as kayaks, dinghies, and inflatable boats. It features an 18 lb. thrust, a 24-inch shaft, and operates on a 12V power supply. Its robust construction includes saltwater coating for corrosion resistance and a weedless propeller design.

Figure 1: Watersnake T18 ASP Electric Trolling Motor. This image shows the complete trolling motor assembly, including the control head, shaft, transom mount, and propeller.

Key Features:

• 18 lb. Thrust: Provides sufficient power for small watercraft.
• 24-Inch Alloy Shaft: Durable and suitable for various water depths.
• Transom Mount: Easy and secure attachment to the boat's transom.
• High and Low Speed Control: Offers flexibility in propulsion.
• Forward and Reverse Switch: Allows for directional control.
• Saltwater Coated: Enhanced corrosion resistance for marine environments.
• Weedless 2-Blade Propeller: Designed to navigate through heavy aquatic vegetation.
• Anti-Impact Clip System: Integrated into the mount for added durability.

Figure 2: Labeled diagram of the Watersnake T18 ASP Trolling Motor components. This diagram highlights key parts such as the control head with forward/reverse and speed controls, retractable handle, adjustable height collar, nylon transom mount, alloy shaft, weedless 2-blade propeller, and stainless steel propeller shaft.

Setup and Installation

1. Mounting the Motor:

1. Identify a suitable location on the boat's transom for mounting. Ensure the transom is strong enough to support the motor.
2. Loosen the transom clamp screws on the motor mount.
3. Position the motor on the transom, ensuring the propeller is submerged to an adequate depth (approximately 6-12 inches below the water surface) and the control head is easily accessible.
4. Tighten the transom clamp screws securely by hand. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the transom or the mount.
5. Adjust the shaft depth using the adjustable height collar. Ensure the motor is vertical and the propeller is clear of any obstructions.

Figure 3: Watersnake T18 ASP Trolling Motor mounted on a boat's transom. This image illustrates the motor securely attached to the rear of a small boat, ready for operation.

2. Battery Connection:

• Use a 12-volt deep cycle marine battery with a minimum capacity of 35 Ampere-hours (Ah).
• Ensure the motor is switched OFF before connecting to the battery.
• Connect the red positive (+) terminal of the motor's power cable to the positive (+) terminal of the battery.
• Connect the black negative (-) terminal of the motor's power cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery.
• Ensure connections are tight and corrosion-free.
• It is recommended to install a 20 Amp circuit breaker (not included) between the motor and the battery for protection.

Operating Instructions

1. Power On/Off and Speed Control:

Figure 4: Close-up of the Watersnake T18 ASP control head. This image displays the high/low speed switch and the forward/reverse switch, which are used to control the motor's operation.

• The control head features a switch for speed control (High/Low) and a switch for direction (Forward/Reverse).
• To turn the motor ON, select either "Low" or "High" speed.
• To turn the motor OFF, set the speed switch to the "OFF" position.
• For precise control, start with "Low" speed and adjust as needed.

2. Directional Control:

• Use the Forward/Reverse switch to change the direction of thrust.
• Ensure the propeller has stopped rotating before switching direction to prevent damage to the motor.
• Steer the boat by rotating the control head and shaft assembly.

3. Retractable Handle:

• The motor is equipped with a retractable handle for comfortable steering. Extend or retract it as desired for optimal control.

Maintenance

• After Each Use:
  • Rinse the motor, especially the propeller and shaft, with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.
  • Inspect the propeller for any fishing line, weeds, or damage. Remove any obstructions.
  • Check all electrical connections for corrosion. Clean and apply dielectric grease if necessary.
• Propeller Inspection:
  • Periodically remove the propeller (refer to specific instructions if needed, usually involves removing a nut/pin) and inspect the shaft for any debris wrapped around it.
  • Ensure the propeller is free from nicks or cracks. Replace if damaged.
• Storage:
  • Store the motor in a dry, well-ventilated area when not in use.
  • Disconnect the battery during long-term storage.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Figure 5: Watersnake Trolling Motor Comparison Chart. This chart provides a comparison of various Watersnake models, including the T18 ASP (Model 55043), detailing specifications such as thrust, shaft length, battery requirements, and control features.

Warranty and Support

The Watersnake T18 ASP Electric Trolling Motor comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, neglect, accident, unauthorized modification, or normal wear and tear.

For warranty claims or technical support, please contact your authorized Watersnake dealer or visit the official Watersnake website for contact information. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty validation.