Minn Kota Riptide Autopilot problem

ccroke · #1 17-01-2015, 04:58 AM

Does any one have experience with the compass on the Minn Kota riptide?

I think mine may have died but i want to be sure before i spend $120 on a new board. The motor has worked flawlessly for me but on the last two trips turning on autopilot the motor spins left or right like it can't get a compass bearing. Originally this happened on the second day of a two day trip and i put it down to having a low battery. I have since charged the battery and i'm continuing to have the problem.

The motor works fine when i don't have autopilot on. I have only just brought a new foot pedal just before christmas as my last one was playing up. I don't charge the battery with the motor connected, and i have read it needs to be within 5 degrees of level for it to work but i have not changed anything for it to suddenly become a problem.

I can post a video of it happening tomorrow if it helps. Any ideas?

tippers · #2 18-01-2015, 01:40 AM

This sounds like a fault in the unit, if you check out Youtube I have seen this happen, where the minn kota keeps spinning in circles. Check it out.

ccroke · #3 18-01-2015, 04:39 AM

Thanks. I watched a few before posting. I pulled apart the main unit today and found a heap of mud on the circuit board from wasps nest. I cleaned everything with contact cleaner and re-connected all the wiring. I think this may have fixed it as when i turn on the autopilot and move the trailer the motor continues facing the same direction. I will have to take it out one day to confirm for sure it has been fixed.

Hi Tech · #4 22-01-2015, 01:55 AM

I have similar problem with my riptide. A while back it started doing exactly what you described when I turn on the auto pilot, starts spinning to the right. I have cleaned all connections with contact cleaner and finished with silicon spray. When I check it at home it works perfectly, however when I try it when im on the water the thing goes ape sh%t. I have no choice but to replace the compass and board and hopefully it will fix the problem. Can I ask where you can get the board and compass for $120.

ccroke · #5 22-01-2015, 02:28 AM

You can get the compass for US$120 and then its another $40 ish for shipping. http://www.northlandmarine.com/MinnK...dContBrd07.htm
Hope this helps. I will be interested to see if it continues to happen next time i get onto the water.