This document is an owner's manual for the Watersnake ASP Transom Mount Electric Motor, providing comprehensive information on its installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The manual emphasizes the motor's design for silent motoring and suitability for various angling conditions, highlighting its high-quality materials, superior design, and precision engineering for reliability and longevity.
The Watersnake ASP electric motor is designed to provide silent and efficient propulsion for small boats, primarily for fishing and recreational use. It is a transom-mounted motor, meaning it attaches to the stern of the boat. The motor features a control box at the top of the shaft, which houses the speed and direction controls. The handle of the motor head is stowable and extends with a pull of a button, making the motor more compact for storage and transport.
Function Description
The primary function of the Watersnake ASP electric motor is to propel a boat silently through water. It operates on a 12V deep cycle battery, providing thrust for various angling conditions. The motor's controls allow for both forward and reverse movement, as well as low and high-speed settings. The depth of the propeller in the water can be adjusted, and the steering counter-force can be fine-tuned for optimal boat control.
Usage Features
- Transom Mount: The motor is designed to be securely attached to the stern of the boat using mounting bolts. The manual provides instructions on how to tighten these bolts securely without over-tightening.
- Tilt Adjustment (ASP T-24 only): For the ASP T-24 model with a metal bracket, the motor angle can be adjusted. This involves holding the motor head and depressing a positioning pin on the mounting bracket to achieve the desired tilt, then releasing the pin to lock it in place. The ASP T-18 model with a nylon bracket does not have this tilting feature.
- Depth Adjustment: The motor's shaft depth can be adjusted to suit different water conditions. This is done by loosening a depth collar adjustment screw, setting the motor to the desired depth, and then securely retightening the screw.
- Steering Control: The steering counter-force can be adjusted by loosening or tightening a counter-force bolt. The ideal setting allows the boat to steer in the intended direction without constant correction.
- Speed and Direction Control: The head unit features easy-to-use switches for controlling forward and reverse movement (L to R) and selecting between low (-) and high (=) speeds.
- Extendable/Stowable Handle: The motor head's handle can be pulled out to extend for use and pushed in to stow, making the motor more compact for storage.
- Propeller System: The motor uses a weedless 2-blade propeller, designed to minimize entanglement with weeds and debris. The manual provides clear instructions on how to attach the propeller, including placing the shear pin and tightening the propeller nut.
- Battery Compatibility: The motor is designed to operate with a 12V deep cycle battery. The manual explicitly warns against using lithium batteries or car/truck/motorcycle batteries, as they are not compatible and can damage the motor.
- Electrical Connections: Before connecting to the battery, all switches must be in the OFF position. The red cable connects to the positive (+) terminal, and the black cable to the negative (-) terminal. Clean terminals are crucial for optimal performance and to minimize power wastage.
- Circuit Breaker Recommendation: A Watersnake circuit breaker is highly recommended to protect the motor's circuit boards. It attaches to the red power cable and shuts off the motor if the connection overheats.
Maintenance Features
- Post-Use Cleaning: After each use, the motor should be thoroughly cleaned. A light rinse with fresh water (avoiding high-pressure streams directly on the motor) and a wash with warm soapy water are recommended to remove salt and debris, especially from the shaft and transom mount bracket area. This routine applies to both saltwater and freshwater use.
- Lubrication: After drying, excess moisture should be removed, and all friction points should be sparingly lubricated with a pressurized spray lubricant. The motor shaft should be kept smooth to prevent deployment issues, with a light coat of wax or spray lubricant applied a couple of times a year.
- Periodical General Maintenance:
- Check for and tighten any loose screws, bolts, or fittings.
- Inspect wiring and terminals for signs of corrosion or debris.
- Check the fuse assembly or circuit breaker for corrosion or debris and replace if necessary.
- Battery Care:
- Do not charge the battery while the Watersnake motor is still connected.
- Do not connect the Watersnake motor to a battery that is connected to the main motor's charging system (alternator).
- Ensure the 12V deep cycle battery is fully charged for normal operation.
- Storage Recommendations:
- Short-Term Storage: If the motor remains on the boat for a short break or during rain, it is recommended to cover it to protect the electronics. Storing it in a safe, non-damp, room-temperature area is ideal.
- Long-Term Storage: For off-season storage, the motor should be placed in a safe, dry location away from extreme temperatures to protect the electronics, including the circuit board and speed control unit.
- Out of Water Storage: If the boat is not stored under cover, the motor should be removed and stored separately under cover, away from direct sunlight and wet/damp areas. If removal is not possible, a weatherproof cover is recommended.
- Towing: When towing the boat long distances, especially over rough or unsealed roads, it is strongly recommended to remove the Watersnake motor and stow it safely in the vehicle or boat.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a quick reference guide for common issues like "No power / Reduced power" and "Noise or vibration coming from motor," offering steps to diagnose and resolve problems such as checking battery connections, propeller condition, and shaft lubrication.
- Service Information: A list of authorized service agents and schematics/parts lists are available through Jarvis Walker's Anglers Central Service Centre website. Service videos are also available on the Jarvis Walker Brands YouTube channel.
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