Ulterra Belt torn

[RichW]

While lubing the belt I found a small tear in the belt and that edge of the belt from the tear to where it goes into the trim module has a rough feel to it. Is it time for a trip to an ASC (1.5 hour drive) or can I just take a razor blade & trim the torn part off. This just happened cause I usually clean & lube the belt almost every time I use it and also check the torque on the belt adjuster often. Motor is 3 years old. Minnkota tech support wasn't much help. When asked about trimming the tear I was told "I guess so". Thanks

[bobcoy]

I think you have an issue inside the steering mechanism. Where did you get info about lubricating the belt? And what are you using? Petroleum based lubes are not good for plastics. I think it might be a good time to get it fixed up. JMO Bob

[RichW]

I think you have an issue inside the steering mechanism. Where did you get info about lubricating the belt? And what are you using? Petroleum based lubes are not good for plastics. I think it might be a good time to get it fixed up. JMO Bob

Manual instructs to use a water based silicon lube on the shaft & belt. I don't remember hitting anything with the motor deployed so probably somethings bad inside the mechanism. Just hate the long drive to the ASC.

[Jig_Man]

I was told to use Armor All on mine. It doesn’t list ingredients.

[bobcoy]

My manual says occasional aqueous based silicon on the composite shaft. Jig Man as far as armor all some of its products are not petroleum based, some are. Rich, The scratches on the shaft and the side of the belt groove have been posted before and all the ones that stated a fix were something to do with the steering mechanism. I have a 2018 Ulterra. I have no scratches on the shaft or wear on the sides of the belt groove. Bob

[Jig_Man]

This is just the regular Armor All.

[bobcoy]

Original and you are good to go.
Armor All protectant and leather care protectant products contain surfactants and water-based silicone emulsions. They do not contain alcohols or petroleum distillates. In addition, Armor All® Outlast® Interior Restorer Cream and Outlast® Leather Restorer contain UV inhibitors.

[Jig_Man]

Thanks so much Bob.

[bobcoy]

I am sure you are relieved! I questioned it so I thought I would check it out and wanted others to know. Bob

[RichW]

Finally made the trip to the ASC. The tech said I could probably trim off the tear but safer option would be the $341 trim unit. He ordered one, it wasn't on backorder so motor should be done by next week. Regarding the scratches, he says he see that all the time with shallow water Florida fisherman...guilty of that for sure. Also I counted 8 freshwater and 12 saltwater Ulterras and 3 or 4 other types of Minnkotas lined up for repairs.

[bobcoy]

Sounds like they are experienced. Is that all they do there or is it a boat dealer as well?

[RichW]

Sounds like they are experienced. Is that all they do there or is it a boat dealer as well?

Nope just.. Kels Rod Reel & trolling motor repair..great local folks

[Nybassin]

Would someone be able to tell me if my ulterra belt tore or if this is the end of the belt, replacement belts don’t seem to have the same end.

[Bradrodfish]

Would someone be able to tell me if my ulterra belt tore or if this is the end of the belt, replacement belts don’t seem to have the same end.

The belt is at the end of it life. I have never seen a belt do this unless an obstruction is hit. Recommend you get the belt replaced. If you have never done this it can be a time consuming job. I recommend you bring to an ASC. the belt should be able to be changed with out changing the trim module.