Mercury T30 User manual

i
Thank You
Thank you for choosing MotorGuide, one of the finest trolling
motors available. Years of experience have been committed to the
goal of producing the finest quality products. This led to
MotorGuide's reputation for strict quality control, excellence,
durability, long‑lasting performance and being the best at providing
after‑the‑sale service and support.
Please read this manual carefully before operating your motor. This
manual has been prepared to assist you in the operation, safe
use, and care of your trolling motor.
Again, thank you for your confidence in MotorGuide.
NEVER STOP LEARNING, NEVER STOP IMPROVING, AND
NEVER, EVER STOP FISHING.
Warranty Message
The product you have purchased comes with a One-Year Limited
Warranty from MotorGuide, the terms of the policy are set forth in
the Warranty Information section of this manual. The policy
statement contains a description of the duration of coverage,
important disclaimers and limitations of damages, and other
related information. Please review this important information.
The description and specifications contained herein were in effect
at the time this manual was approved for printing. Mercury
Marine, whose policy is one of continued improvement, reserves
the right to discontinue models at any time, to change
specifications, designs, methods, or procedures without notice and
without incurring obligation.
MotorGuide, Tulsa, Oklahoma U.S.A.
Litho in U.S.A.
© 2009, MotorGuide
© 2009 Mercury Marine T30/T34 90-8M4002073 908

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Mercury, Mercury Marine, MerCruiser, Mercury MerCruiser, Mercury
Racing, MotorGuide, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers,
Mariner, Quicksilver, #1 On The Water, Alpha, Bravo, Bravo Two, Pro
Max, OptiMax, Sport‑Jet, K‑Planes, MerCathode, RideGuide,
SmartCraft, Total Command, VesselView, Zero Effort, Zeus, M with
Waves logo, Mercury with Waves logo, and SmartCraft logo are all
registered trademarks of Brunswick Corporation. Mercury Product
Protection logo is a registered service mark of Brunswick Corporation.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
iii
Warranty Information
MotorGuide Limited One‑Year Warranty.............................................1
General Information
Boater's Responsibilities.....................................................................4
Protecting People in the Water............................................................4
Passenger Safety Message.................................................................4
Safe Boating Suggestions...................................................................5
Product Overview
T30/T34 MotorGuide Trolling Motor....................................................6
Specifications......................................................................................6
Wiring and Battery Information
Wiring and Battery Information............................................................7
Standard Practices and Procedures....................................................7
Battery Recommendations..................................................................7
Battery Precautions.............................................................................8
Wire and Cable Routing......................................................................8
Battery Connection..............................................................................9
Trolling Motor Installation and Operation
Transom Mount Installation...............................................................10
Stowing and Deploying the Trolling Motor.........................................10
Adjusting the Steering Tension..........................................................13
Adjusting the Motor Depth.................................................................13
Speed Control....................................................................................14

TABLE OF CONTENTS
iv
Maintenance
Trolling Motor Care............................................................................15
Inspection and Maintenance Schedule.............................................15
Lubricating the Pivot Points...............................................................16
Battery Inspection..............................................................................16
Propeller Replacement......................................................................17
Troubleshooting
Trolling Motor Performance...............................................................19
Storage
Storage Preparation..........................................................................20
Owner Service Assistance
MotorGuide Accessories Inquiries.....................................................21
Mercury Marine Service Offices........................................................21
Maintenance Log
Maintenance Log...............................................................................23
Accessories
Trolling Motor Accessories................................................................24

WARRANTY INFORMATION
1
MotorGuide Limited One‑Year Warranty
KEEP YOUR ORIGINAL PURCHASE RECEIPT
1. To obtain warranty service, the purchaser should return the unit
(postage prepaid and insured) to MotorGuide at 4433 West 49th
Street, Tulsa, OK 74107. DO NOT RETURN TO PLACE OF
PURCHASE. Products returned by mail should also be carefully
packaged and include a note describing the nature of the problem
and customer contact information. A copy of the proof of purchase
is required with the return of the product for warranty
consideration. Warranty claims will not be accepted without
presentation of purchase receipt for trolling motor or Bill of Sale for
boat package.
2. MotorGuide electric trolling motors are warranted to the original
purchaser to be free from defects in material and/or workmanship
for one (1) year. Warranty is NOT transferable to any subsequent
purchaser.
3. MotorGuide, at its discretion, will repair or replace items covered
under the terms of this warranty. Neither MotorGuide nor
MotorGuide Service Dealers are responsible for damages to
MotorGuide products due to repairs performed by anyone other
than the MotorGuide Factory Service Center. Neither MotorGuide
nor Mercury Marine is responsible for failure or damage caused by
improper installation, set‑up, preparation, or previous service or
repair errors.

WARRANTY INFORMATION
2
4. Warranty coverage is available only to customers that purchase
from a Dealer authorized by MotorGuide/Mercury Marine to
distribute the product in the country in which the sale occurred.
Warranty coverage and duration varies by the country in which the
product resides. This warranty applies to Thruster series
MotorGuide Trolling Motors sold and residing in the United
States. This Limited Warranty begins on the date the product is first
sold to a purchaser or the date on which the product is first put into
service, whichever occurs first. MotorGuide Accessories are
covered by this Limited Warranty for a coverage period of one (1)
year from the date of retail sale. The repair or replacement of
parts, or the performance of service under this warranty, does not
extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration date.
Promotional warranties are not included in this statement and
coverage may vary by promotion. Product either sold or put into
service more than six years from date of manufacture is excluded
from warranty coverage.
5. This warranty does not apply to normal worn parts, i.e., worn
cables, adjustments, or product damage due to; 1) neglect, lack of
maintenance, accident, abnormal operation or improper installation
or service; 2) abuse, i.e., bent metal columns, bent armature
shafts, broken control cables, etc., accidents, modifications,
misuse, excessive wear or damage caused by an owner’s failure
to provide reasonable and necessary installation or care; 3) use of
an accessory or part not manufactured by MotorGuide/Mercury;
4) alteration or removal of parts; 5) opening the lower unit (motor)
by anyone other than the Factory Service Center will void this
warranty.
6. This warranty will not apply to 1) haul out, launch, towing and
storage, transportation charges and/or travel time, telephone or
rental charges of any type, inconvenience, or loss of time or
income, or other consequential damages.
7. We reserve the right to improve the design of any Trolling Motor
without assuming any obligation to modify any Trolling Motor
previously manufactured.

WARRANTY INFORMATION
3
8. Serialized "Service‑Repair" motors have a (1) one year warranty.
Non‑serialized "Service‑Repair" electric trolling motors are NOT
warranted. "Service‑Repair" motor denotes a trolling motor sold by
MotorGuide that may be "used" but has been inspected and may
have had minor repairs. Original retail purchaser of a
"Service‑Repair" motor is the first purchaser of the motor after it is
denoted as "Service‑Repair". "Service Repair" motors have a blue
sticker on the battery cable and box denoting "Manufacturer
Certified Service Repair Motor".
9. TERMINATION OF COVERAGE: Warranty coverage may be
terminated for repossessed product, or product purchased at
auction, from a salvage yard, from a liquidator, from an insurance
company, from unauthorized marine dealers or boat builders, or
other third party entities.
10.ALL INCIDENTAL AND\OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARE
EXCLUDED FROM THIS WARRANTY, WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS ARE EXCLUDED FROM
THIS WARRANTY, IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED TO
THE LIFE OF THIS WARRANTY, SOME STATES DO NOT
ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY
LASTS OR THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND
YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH MAY
VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.

GENERAL INFORMATION
4
Boater's Responsibilities
The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation
of the boat and safety of its occupants and general public. It is strongly
recommended that each operator (driver) read and understand this
entire manual before operating the trolling motor.
Be sure at least one additional person on board is instructed in the basic
operation of the trolling motor in case the driver is unable to operate the
boat.
Protecting People in the Water
WHILE YOU ARE TROLLING
It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid
a boat heading in their direction, even at slow speeds.
21604
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are
boating in an area where there might be people in the water.
WHILE THE BOAT IS STATIONARY
! WARNING
A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to
the boat can cause serious injury or death to swimmers. Stop the
trolling motor immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your
boat.
Shut off the trolling motor before allowing people to swim or be in the
water near your boat.
Passenger Safety Message
Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all
passengers. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as a sharp change
of boat direction, could throw them off the boat.

GENERAL INFORMATION
5
Safe Boating Suggestions
In order to safely enjoy the waterways, familiarize yourself with local
and other governmental boating regulations and restrictions, and
consider the following suggestions.
Use flotation devices. It is the law to have an approved personal flotation
device of suitable size for each person aboard and have it readily
accessible.
Do not overload your boat. Most boats are rated and certified for
maximum load (weight) capacities, refer to your boat capacity plate. If
in doubt, contact your dealer or the boat's manufacturer.
Perform safety checks and required maintenance. Follow a regular
schedule and ensure all repairs are made properly.
Never be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while boating (it is the
law). Alcohol or drug use impairs your judgment and greatly reduces
your ability to react quickly.
Passenger boarding. Stop the trolling motor whenever passengers are
boarding or unloading.
Be alert. The operator of the boat is responsible by law to maintain a
proper lookout by sight and hearing. The operator must have an
unobstructed view particularly to the front. No passengers, load, or
fishing seats should block the operators view when operating the boat.
Underwater hazards. Reduce speed and proceed with caution
whenever navigating in shallow water.
Tripping hazards. To avoid a trip hazard, route all cables and wiring
neatly and out of the way.
Report accidents. Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating
Accident Report with their state boating law enforcement agency when
their boat is involved in certain boating accidents. A boating accident
must be reported if 1) there is loss of life or probable loss of life, 2) there
is personal injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, 3) there
is damage to boats or other property where the damage value exceeds
$500.00 or 4) there is complete loss of the boat. Seek further assistance
from local law enforcement.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW
6
T30/T34 MotorGuide Trolling Motor
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
37395
a - Twist‑tiller handle
b - Depth collar knob
c - Tilt‑positioning pin
d - Transom clamp screws
e - Shaft
f - Lower unit
g - 2‑blade power propeller
h - Steering tension knob
i - 03 transom mount
Specifications
Model Peak Thrust Shaft Volts Speed Control
T30 30 lbf thrust 76.2 cm (30 in.) 12 V 5/2 Hand/Twist‑Tiller
T34 34 lbf thrust 76.2 cm (30 in.) 12 V 5/2 Hand/Twist‑Tiller

WIRING AND BATTERY INFORMATION
7
Wiring and Battery Information
! WARNING
An operating or charging battery produces gas that can ignite and
explode, spraying out sulfuric acid, which can cause severe burns.
Ventilate the area around the battery and wear protective equipment
when handling or servicing batteries.
! WARNING
Performing service or maintenance without first disconnecting the
battery can cause product damage, personal injury, or death due to
fire, explosion, electrical shock, or unexpected motor starting. Always
disconnect the battery cables from the battery before maintaining,
servicing, installing, or removing motor components.
Standard Practices and Procedures
When installing or removing this trolling motor, follow these guidelines:
• Disconnect the trolling motor battery from the main engine
battery, if equipped.
• Do not use the main engine battery to power the trolling motor.
Battery Recommendations
• Use a 12‑volt, deep cycle marine battery.
• Install a 50 A manual reset circuit breaker in line with the trolling
motor positive leads within 180 cm (72 in.) of the batteries.
• If extending the existing wire beyond the standard battery cable,
use 13 mm (6 g) battery cables.
Recommended MotorGuide Accessory Description Part Number
6 g battery cable and terminals with 50 A manual reset breaker MM309922T
50 A manual reset breaker MM5870

WIRING AND BATTERY INFORMATION
8
Battery Precautions
! WARNING
An operating or charging battery produces gas that can ignite and
explode, spraying out sulfuric acid, which can cause severe burns.
Ventilate the area around the battery and wear protective equipment
when handling or servicing batteries.
When charging batteries, an explosive gas mixture forms in each cell.
Part of this gas escapes through holes in vent plugs and may form an
explosive atmosphere around battery if ventilation is poor. This
explosive gas may remain in or around battery for several hours after it
has been charged. Sparks or flames can ignite this gas and cause an
internal explosion which may shatter the battery.
The following precautions should be observed to prevent an
explosion:
1. Do not smoke near batteries being charged or which have been
charged very recently.
2. Do not break live circuits at terminals of batteries because a spark
usually occurs at the point where a live circuit is broken. Always be
careful when connecting or disconnecting cable clamps on
chargers. Poor connections are a common cause of electrical arcs
which cause explosions.
3. Do not reverse polarity of battery terminal to cable connections.
Wire and Cable Routing
• Route the trolling motor wires on the opposite side of the boat from
other boat wiring.
• Sensitive electronics, such as depth finders, should be connected
directly to the main engine battery. Single battery systems require
separate connection cables.

WIRING AND BATTERY INFORMATION
9
Battery Connection
! CAUTION
Disconnecting or connecting the battery cables in the incorrect order
can cause injury from electrical shock or can damage the electrical
system. Always disconnect the negative (‑) battery cable first and
connect it last.
12-VOLT BATTERY CONNECTION
RED
BLK
a
b
c
d
37289
a - Power cable
b - 50 A circuit breaker
c - Jumper wire
d - Common ground
Connect the red battery lead from the power cable to the positive (+)
battery post. Connect the black battery lead from the power cable to the
negative (–) battery post.
Install a 50 A circuit breaker in line with the positive lead.
Recommended MotorGuide Accessory Description Part Number
50 A Manual Reset Breaker MM5870

TROLLING MOTOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
10
Transom Mount Installation
NOTE: Fits up to 3‑1/4 in. thick transoms.
1. Select an appropriate area on the transom of the boat to install the
mount.
2. Retract the transom clamp screws.
3. Place the transom mount over the transom of the boat. Ensure the
mount is securely positioned.
37981
4. Tighten the transom clamp screw securely.
IMPORTANT: Overtightening the transom clamp screws can weaken
or damage the mount bracket.
Stowing and Deploying the Trolling Motor
! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never start or
operate the motor out of water.
STOWING THE MOTOR
! CAUTION
Moving parts, such as hinges and pivot points, can cause serious
injury. Keep away from moving parts when stowing, deploying, or
tilting the motor.

TROLLING MOTOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
11
1. Firmly grasp the column and press down on the tilt‑positioning
pin.
37852
Tilt‑positioning pin
2. Pull back on the column while simultaneously pressing down on
the tilt‑positioning pin to reach the desired angle.
37986
Angled position
3. Release the tilt‑positioning pin. Verify that the latch pin is securely
engaged.
a
b
37933
a - Tilt‑positioning pin
b - Latch pin

TROLLING MOTOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
12
DEPLOYING THE MOTOR
! CAUTION
Moving parts, such as hinges and pivot points, can cause serious
injury. Keep away from moving parts when stowing, deploying, or
tilting the motor.
1. Firmly grasp the column and press down on the tilt‑positioning
pin.
37985
Tilt‑positioning pin
2. Adjust the angle of the motor to the desired postion.
37986
Angled position

TROLLING MOTOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
13
3. Release the tilt‑positioning pin. Verify that the latch pin is sercurely
engaged.
a
b37851
a - Tilt‑positioning pin
b - Latch pin
Adjusting the Steering Tension
Adjust the steering tension knob to increase or decrease the effort to
turn the motor freely.
To fasten the column in a fixed position, tighten the friction strip by
turning the steering tension knob clockwise. To unfasten the column
from a fixed position, turn the steering tension knob counterclockwise
to reach the desired steering tension.
38632
a
b
a - Steering tension knob
b - Friction strip
Adjusting the Motor Depth
Adjusting the depth of the motor improves trolling motor performace in
various water depths.

TROLLING MOTOR INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
14
Firmly grasp the column with one hand while turning the depth collar
adjustment knob clockwise until the motor column slides freely. To
secure the column in the desired depth position, turn the depth collar
adjustment knob counterclockwise and then tighten securely.
37377
Depth collar adjustment knob
IMPORTANT: When adjusting the motor depth, ensure the lower unit
is submerged 25 cm (9.8 in.) to avoid choppy water or propeller
cavitation.
Speed Control
Adjust the speed control (five forward speeds and two reverse
speeds) to the desired direction and thrust level.
Rotate the twist‑tiller handle clockwise for forward movement and
counterclockwise for reverse movement. The neutral handle position
stops the motor.
N R
37378
F
Forward, neutral and reverse handle rotation

MAINTENANCE
15
Trolling Motor Care
To keep your trolling motor in the best operating condition and retain its
dependability, it is important that your trolling motor receive periodic
inspections and maintenance. We urge you to keep it maintained
properly to ensure the safety of you and your passengers.
! WARNING
Neglecting to inspect, maintain, or repair your trolling motor can result
in product damage or serious injury or death. Do not perform
maintenance or service on your trolling motor if you are not familiar
with the correct service and safety procedures.
Record maintenance performed in the Maintenance Log at the back
of this book. Save all maintenance work orders and receipts.
SELECTING REPLACEMENT PARTS
We recommend using original MotorGuide Certified Tough replacement
parts.
Inspection and Maintenance Schedule
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check the tightness of the battery lead connections.
• Visually inspect for loose or corroded wiring connections.
• Check the tightness of the propeller nut.
• Check the propeller blades for damage.
AFTER EACH USE
• Disconnect the battery cables from the power source.
• Check the propeller and the propeller shaft for debris such as
weeds and fishing line. Remove all debris.
• Check the tightness of the propeller nut.
• Rinse the trolling motor with clean water to remove dirt and dust
that may scratch the surface.
EVERY 100 HOURS OF USE OR ANNUALLY
• Periodically lubricate all the pivot points. Refer to Pivot Points.
• Check the tightness of bolts, nuts, and other fasteners.

MAINTENANCE
16
• Inspect the battery. Refer to Battery Inspection.
BEFORE PERIODS OF STORAGE
• Refer to Maintenance - Inspection and Maintenance Schedule
and complete the appropriate care instructions to prepare your
trolling motor for storage.
Lubricating the Pivot Points
To reduce friction, lubricate the the following pivot points periodically:
• Pivot pin
• Latch pin
• Tilt‑positioning pin
• Tilt‑positioning pin spring
IMPORTANT: Never use an aerosol lubricant to grease or oil any part
of the unit. Many aerosol lubricants contain harmful propellants that can
cause damage to various parts of the trolling motor.
Tube Ref No. Description Where Used Part No.
95 2-4-C with Teflon Pivot points 92-802859A 1
Battery Inspection
The battery should be inspected at periodic intervals to ensure proper
trolling motor operation.
IMPORTANT: Read the safety and maintenance instructions which
accompany your battery.
1. Ensure that the battery is secured to the vessel.
2. Ensure that the battery cable terminals are clean, tight, and
correctly installed. For installation instructions, refer to Battery
Connection.
3. Ensure that the battery is equipped with a battery box to prevent
accidental shorting of the battery terminals.