Vetus Bow Thruster

[Freestyle]

My 12 year old Vetus bow thruster is not working. I have proper 26v across the unit but it won't turn. The prop turns the shaft freely. Prior to stopping, the unit ran with diminishing thrust for a couple of years. So the tech's conclusion is that the motor needs new brushes and windings.

Does this sound reasonable?

Any thoughts on what is required to remove the electric motor and get it rebuilt/refurbished?

Where to take it in Tampa or send it?

Thanks

Bruce

Freestyle
1985 62 CPMY (54MY with ext)
Tampa

[Pascal]

Have you checked the voltage at the actual motor or at the power feed to the solenoids? Before removing the motor I would make sure it’s not a solenoid or control issue

[Captain Ralph]

12 years,, Lots of current. I agree the first to look at (past the solenoids) is the brushes.
You may be able to service the brushes in place but armature inspection may not be possible.
Pull the motor and inspect/replace what is needed.
Are you keeping the boat another 10/12 years ?? Consider a whole new motor.
Check on impeller updates.
Don't forget to service the gear lube.

Just because it's after 1700; Real drivers don't need no stinking thrusters..

[Cricket]

Have a Vetus 12v thruster on our 32' center console which crapped out after 16-17 years. It ended up being cheaper to purchase an entire unit than just the electric motor which wasn't available at that time anyway.

[JD5652]

Not sure I'd agree with the "needs a new motor" without some additonal tests such as a high pot test, resistance check, etc of the motor windings.

I'd agree with brush replacement and brush rigging inspection.

Also, DC motors require cleaning of the commutator periodically as carbon build up from the brushes between the commutator bars can "short out" the bars over time. This can easily be restored by cleaning out the carbon between the commutator bars. The commutator (rotating element) of the motor would likely have to be removed to clean this up the right way.

My guess is that windings are likely good if you are not tripping the breaker or blowing the fuse.