Are you looking to wire a 36 volt battery to your trolling motor? If so, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get the job done. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, a reliable trolling motor can make all the difference when you’re out on the water. One critical component of any trolling motor setup is the battery, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of wiring a 36 volt system from start to finish.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Before we dive into the details of wiring a 36 volt battery to your trolling motor, it’s important to understand why this setup is beneficial. A 36 volt system provides more power and longer run times than a 12 or 24 volt system, making it ideal for larger boats or anglers who spend long days on the water.
Another advantage of a 36 volt battery stack is that it allows for use of high-thrust motors on larger boats. Due to the increased voltage, these motors can push heavier boats with ease, providing a smoother, more efficient performance.
Materials Needed
Before you begin wiring your 36 volt trolling motor, you’ll need to gather a few materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Three 12 volt batteries with similar amp hour (Ah) ratings
- Battery charger capable of charging 36 volts
- Battery terminals and connectors
- Wiring (10-gauge or 8-gauge wire is recommended)
- Battery switch or battery combiner
- Fuse holder and fuse (recommended for safety)
- Heat shrink tubing or electrical tape
Wiring a 36 Volt System
Step 1: Choose a Battery Location
The first step in wiring your 36 volt battery system is choosing a location for your batteries. This will depend on the size of your boat and personal preference, but the batteries should be kept in a dry, ventilated area away from fuel tanks or other potential hazards.
If you’re unsure where to put your batteries, consult your boat’s owner’s manual or speak with a marine technician for advice.
Step 2: Install Battery Terminals
Next, install the battery terminals onto each battery. These terminals will be used to connect the batteries together and to your trolling motor.
Make sure you use the appropriate terminals for your battery type (lead-acid, AGM, etc.) and connect the positive and negative terminals properly. You can use heat shrink tubing or electrical tape to secure the terminals and prevent any accidental shorts.
Step 3: Connect the Batteries in Series
Once the battery terminals are installed, it’s time to connect the batteries in series. This means connecting the positive terminal of one battery to the negative terminal of the next, until all three batteries are connected.
Use a length of wiring to connect the positive terminal of the first battery to the negative terminal of the second. Then, connect the positive terminal of the second battery to the negative of the third battery. The remaining positive and negative terminals will be used to connect to your trolling motor.
Step 4: Install a Battery Switch or Battery Combiner
Before connecting your battery to your trolling motor, it’s a good idea to install a battery switch or battery combiner. This will allow you to switch between batteries or combine them as needed, ensuring a reliable power source.
Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your switch or combiner for proper installation.
Step 5: Connect the Wiring to Your Trolling Motor
The final step in wiring your 36 volt battery system is connecting the wiring to your trolling motor. Use a length of wiring to connect the positive and negative terminals of your battery stack to the corresponding terminals on your motor.
Again, make sure you use the appropriate wiring and connectors for your setup, and secure all connections with heat shrink tubing or electrical tape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 36 volt battery system?
A 36 volt battery system is a setup that uses three 12-volt batteries connected in series to provide 36 volts of power. This setup is popular for larger boats and high-thrust trolling motors.
What are the benefits of a 36 volt system?
A 36 volt system provides more power and longer run times than a 12 or 24 volt system, making it ideal for larger boats or anglers who spend long days on the water. Additionally, high-thrust motors can push heavier boats with ease, providing a smoother, more efficient performance.
How do I choose the right batteries for my 36 volt system?
When choosing batteries for your 36 volt system, it’s important to look for batteries with similar ratings, such as amp hour (Ah) ratings. This will ensure that your batteries work together efficiently and provide consistent power.
Do I need a fuse for my 36 volt system?
While not required, a fuse can provide an extra layer of safety for your 36 volt system. In the event of a short circuit, a fuse will blow and prevent damage to your batteries or motor.
What size wiring should I use for my 36 volt system?
We recommend using 10-gauge or 8-gauge wiring for your 36 volt system, depending on the length of the wiring and the size of your trolling motor. Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific motor and setup.
