Bow thruster intermittently running slow and “clicking”

[jskamer]

Hi!

My Sleipner Side Power 95t has been acting up lately, most of the times when docking the first “click” the unit works fine and delivers the expected thrust. Then a second push of the button (and usually all consequent pushes) result in barely noticeable thrust and movement.

Today i decided to test the unit at the dock and inspect what was happening. It looks as though the unit makes a “clicking” sound when turning slowly, which sounds different to a full speed burst. I’ve managed to capture the issue on video (https://youtube.com/shorts/MoPuhDl24...44DIeO3uQexKtB), where the first run seems normal, and the second run shows the issue.

The unit is powered by 2 Optima redtop batteries right next to it, with a CCA of 815a, these batteries are not new but before replacing them (as they are quite expensive) I’d like to see if someone has an idea as to whether the issue could be caused by these batteries or if a problem with the unit itself is more likely.

Any help is appreciated!

[boatpoker]

Sounds like it's not fully engaging ... weak solenoid ?

[Wotname]

Looks like the batteries (at leat one of them) aren't up to the job any longer. What are the voltages when taken right at the battery terminal? Or better still, what is the voltage drop between the battery terminal and the thruster terminal (both +ve & -ve leads)?

BTW, red tops are not ideal for thrusters but yellow tops are ideal.