VariMAX Owners Manual
VariMAX Owners Manual
VariMAX Owners Manual
Thank You
Thank you for choosing MotorGuide® VariMAX™. With VariMAX, MotorGuide
capitalized on many years of experience to provide you with a motor designed to
deliver Digital Variable Speed Control and maximum time on the water.
We designed VariMAX with a BluVis™ Function Display to show precise speed
setting and battery voltage so you are always in control. The VariMAX Digital
Advantage lets you dial in the exact speed for your boat to match the fishing
conditions of the day while providing significantly longer run times on your battery
charge.
The VariMAX motor and its controls are designed to be very intuitive. You will need
to properly install the handle, so please take the time to read this manual. Remember
to keep your receipt and immediately register your trolling motor. A warranty card is
enclosed or you can complete registration on the internet at www.motorguide.com.
At MotorGuide, we believe there are some things you should Never Stop doing.
NEVER STOP LEARNING, NEVER STOP IMPROVING,
*8M4002068*
AND NEVER, EVER STOP FISHING.
Warranty Message
The product you purchased comes with a 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. MotorGuide, 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.
VariMAX
© 2008, Mercury Marine. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part
without permission is prohibited.
VariMAX and BluVis are trademarks of Brunswick Corporation.
Mercury, Mercury Marine, MerCruiser, Mercury MerCruiser, Mercury Racing,
MotorGuide, Gator, Machete, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Mariner,
Quicksilver, #1 On The Water, Alpha, Bravo, Bravo Two, Pro Max, OptiMax,
Sport‑Jet, K‑Planes, MerCathode, 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.
© 2008 Mercury Marine
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 6 - Operation
Installing The Motor Into The Bow Mount..............30 Adjusting The Steering Tension............................35
Removing The Motor From The Bow Mount.........30 Adjusting The Motor Depth....................................35
Stowing The Trolling Motor....................................30 Speed Control........................................................36
Transom Mount.................................................30 Direction Control....................................................36
Bow Mount........................................................32 Transom Mount Application..............................37
Deploying The Trolling Motor................................33 Transom Mount—Backtrolling Application........37
Transom Mount.................................................33 Bow Mount Application.....................................37
Bow Mount........................................................34
Section 10 - Accessories
7. This warranty does not apply to normal worn parts, for example, worn cables,
adjustments, or product damage due to; 1) neglect, lack of maintenance, accident,
abnormal operation or improper installation or service; 2) abuse, such as, 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 or Mercury; 4) alteration or removal of parts; 5) opening the lower unit
(motor) by anyone other than an authorized MotorGuide Service Center will void this
warranty.
8. We reserve the right to improve the design of any Trolling Motor without assuming any
obligation to modify any Trolling Motor previously manufactured.
9. All Serialized "Service‑Repair" trolling motors receive 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".
10. 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; or 2) removal or replacement
of boat partitions or material because of boat design for necessary access to the
Product; or 3) disconnection and reconnection of hard‑wired trolling motors.
11. 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.
12. ALL INCIDENTAL 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.
.
.
For Your Records:
Model Number _______________________________
Serial Number _______________________________
Notes:
a
38438
a - Serial number
b - Model identification number
c - Voltage
Bow Mount
The bow mount and pontoon mount serial number decals are located on the friction tube
and on the motor shaft.
a
a
39060
a - Serial number
b - Model identification number
c - Voltage
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.
21604
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where
there might be people in the water.
Shut off the trolling motor before allowing people to swim or be in the water near your boat.
Component Identification
VariMAX Transom Mount
a b c
e
i
37906
a b
c
e
f
l
39061
c e
d
38695
3. Press the handle extension spring while inserting the handle into the top housing.
Adjust the handle to the desired length.
38664
38932
O‑ring
5. Rotate the cam‑lock clockwise 180°. Move the cam‑lock flush against the top housing.
180°
39062
6. To secure the tri‑lobe handle, hold the handle steady while rotating and tightening the
cam‑lock clockwise 180°. Verify that the handle, cam‑lock, and top housing are in
alignment.
38693
Cam‑lock and top housing in alignment
180°
38938
38656 38662
3. To secure the tri‑lobe handle, hold the handle steady while rotating and tightening the
cam‑lock clockwise 180°. Verify that the handle, cam‑lock, and top housing are in
alignment.
38693
Cam‑lock and top housing in alignment
38630
Propeller pin
2. Install the propeller onto the motor shaft by engaging the propeller onto the propeller
pin.
38538
38536
4. Use a MotorGuide propeller wrench or pliers to tighten the propeller nut another ¼ turn.
Recommended MotorGuide Accessory Description Part Number
MotorGuide Prop Wrench Kit MGA050B6
Notes:
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.
Battery Recommendations
• Use a 12‑volt, deep cycle marine battery. Refer to Battery Connection.
• Install a 50‑amp manual reset circuit breaker in line with the trolling motor positive leads
within 180 cm (72 in.) of the batteries.
• Use 13 mm (6‑gauge) battery cables if extending the existing wire beyond the standard
battery cable.
Recommended MotorGuide Accessory Description Part Number
Trolling Motor Power Plug 8M4000953
Trolling Motor SP (receptacle) 8M4000954
50‑Amp Alligator Clips 8M4000287
6‑Gauge Battery Cable and Terminals With 50‑Amp Manual Reset Breaker MM309922T
50‑Amp Manual Reset Breaker MM5870
12-volt 24-volt
13.5-volts 27-volts
13-volts 26-volts
12.5-volts 25-volts
12-volts 24-volts
11.5-volts 23-volts
11-volts 22-volts
10.5-volts 21-volts
10-volts 20-volts
9.5-volts 19-volts
9-volts 18-volts
38890
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.
BLK
RED
c
b 37289
1. Install a 50‑amp circuit breaker (not included) in line with the positive lead.
2. Connect the red battery lead from the power cable to the positive (+) battery post.
3. Connect the black battery lead from the power cable to the negative (–) battery post.
Recommended MotorGuide Accessory Description Part Number
50‑Amp Manual Reset Breaker MM5870
BLK
A
GR
RED
Battery A c
Battery B
c
b 37824
1. Install a 50‑amp circuit breaker (not included) in line with the positive lead.
2. Connect the red battery lead from the power cable to the positive (+) post on battery
B.
3. Connect the black battery lead from the power cable to the negative (–) post on Battery
A.
4. Connect a jumper wire between the negative (–) post on Battery B to the positive (+)
post on battery A.
Recommended MotorGuide Accessory Description Part Number
50‑Amp Manual Reset Breaker MM5870
Notes:
39065
IMPORTANT: Overtightening the transom clamp screws can weaken or damage the mount
bracket.
4. Tighten the transom clamp screws securely.
39066
2. Place the pontoon mount base on the surface of the boat deck. Use the mount base
as a template to mark the location of the mount holes.
37927
Pontoon mount holes
IMPORTANT: Using a larger drill bit, countersink the holes on fiberglass boats to prevent
the gel‑coat from cracking.
3. Drill the mounting holes with a 7 mm (1/4 in.) diameter drill bit. Remove any debris.
4. Install four stainless steel washers and locking nuts onto the mounting screws
underneath the boat deck. Tighten securely.
37805
Gator 20.8 Breakaway
IMPORTANT: Choose an area on the deck with a 7.6 cm (3 in.) clearance from the bow of
the boat for all motor positions including run and stow positions.
1. Select an appropriate area on the deck of the boat to install the mount. Ensure that the
forward mounting screws will not penetrate the hull.
38094
Mount on deck
2. Place the bow mount base on the surface of the boat deck. Use the mount base as a
template to mark the locations of the front mounting holes in the plastic decket and the
rear mounting holes on the mount base.
38097
5. Insert the rubber mounting isolators into the drilled holes. Position the isolators in‑line
with the mount base with the wider side toward the outside of the mount bracket.
39076
6. Place the mount bracket on the isolators and align the holes. Install the two longer
screws into the front mounting holes and the two shorter screws into the rear mounting
holes. Tighten all of the mounting screws securely with a Phillips screwdriver.
IMPORTANT: The bracket must lay flush against the isolators before bolted to the deck or
the mount will bind, making it difficult or impossible to unlatch.
7. Once installed, the bracket should fasten securely and evenly, with the latch pins in the
latch, and release with a light, quick snap of the rope handle.
37806
Gator Flex 360
IMPORTANT: Choose an area on the deck with a 7.6 cm (3 in.) clearance from the bow of
the boat for all motor positions including run and stow positions.
1. Select an appropriate area on the deck of the boat to install the mount. Ensure that the
forward mounting screws will not penetrate the hull.
39074
Mount on deck
2. Place the bow mount base on the surface of the boat deck. Use the mount base as a
template to mark the locations of the front mounting holes in the plastic decket and the
rear mounting holes on the mount base.
39075
Notes:
Section 6 - Operation
Table of Contents
Installing The Motor Into The Bow Mount........... 30 Adjusting The Steering Tension......................... 35
Removing The Motor From The Bow Mount....... 30 Adjusting The Motor Depth................................. 35
Stowing The Trolling Motor................................. 30 Speed Control..................................................... 36
Transom Mount ............................................ 30 Direction Control................................................. 36
Bow Mount ................................................... 32 Transom Mount Application ......................... 37
Deploying The Trolling Motor.............................. 33 Transom Mount—Backtrolling Application
Transom Mount ............................................ 33 ..................................................................... 37
Bow Mount ................................................... 34 Bow Mount Application ................................. 37
39156
39156
! 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.
Transom Mount
IMPORTANT: Ensure the mount is stowed while using the main engine or trailering the
boat. Ensure the steering tension collar is tightened securely.
NOTE: The mount orientation of the motor determines the functionality of the taper‑lock
knob. Push or pull the taper‑lock knob to release the taper‑lock pin.
1. Firmly grasp the column and push–or pull–the taper‑lock knob.
38787
Taper‑lock knob
IMPORTANT: Do not use the handle to stow or tilt the motor.
2. Tilt the motor toward you by pulling back on the column while simultaneously pushing–
or pulling–the taper‑lock knob.
38786
Taper‑lock knob
3. Once the motor is stowed, release the taper‑lock knob. Verify the taper‑lock pin is
securely engaged by pushing–or pulling–on the taper‑lock knob.
38773
Taper‑lock knob
4. Secure the motor by moving the depth collar flush against the steering tension collar.
39096
a - Depth collar
b - Steering tension collar
Bow Mount
NOTE: This bow mount stowing procedure applies to both the Gator 20.8 Breakaway
mount (pictured) and the Gator Flex 360 mount.
1. Firmly grasp the mount rope handle.
2. Snap the mount rope handle to disengage the lock pin.
3. Continue to pull the mount rope handle to raise the lower unit onto the mount.
38400
Mount rope
IMPORTANT: Gently raise the trolling motor out of the water. Do not release the mount
rope handle until the lock pin is engaged.
4. Once the motor is in the stow position, the lock pin engages to secure the trolling motor.
38516
VariMAX stowed
! 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.
Transom Mount
NOTE: The mount orientation of the motor determines the functionality of the taper‑lock
knob. Push or pull the taper‑lock knob to release the taper‑lock pin.
1. Firmly grasp the column and push–or pull–the taper‑lock knob.
39098
Taper‑lock knob
IMPORTANT: Do not use the handle to tilt or deploy the motor.
2. Adjust the angle of the motor to the desired position while simultaneously pushing–or
pulling–the taper‑lock knob.
38786
Taper‑lock knob
3. Release the taper‑lock knob. Verify that the taper‑lock pin is securely engaged.
39100
Taper‑lock knob
4. Grasp the shaft with one hand and pinch the depth collar to lower the trolling motor to
the desired depth.
! CAUTION
Avoid possible serious injury from the motor dropping suddenly when adjusting the motor
depth. Firmly grasp the motor shaft with one hand when raising or lowering the motor.
Bow Mount
NOTE: This bow mount deploying procedure applies to both the Gator 20.8 Breakaway
mount (pictured) and the Gator Flex 360 mount.
1. Firmly grasp the mount rope handle.
2. Snap the mount rope handle to disengage the lock pin.
3. Continue to pull the mount rope handle to lower the trolling motor into the water.
IMPORTANT: Gently lower the trolling motor into the water. Do not release the mount rope
handle until the lock pin is engaged.
39020
Mount rope
4. Once the motor is in the deployed postion, the lock pin will engage to secure the trolling
motor.
38906
VariMAX deployed
38437
Steering tension collar
Adjust the depth of the motor to improve trolling motor performance in various water depths.
IMPORTANT: When adjusting the motor depth, ensure the lower unit is fully submerged
to avoid propeller cavitation.
1. Firmly grasp the column with one hand while holding the depth collar.
2. Pinch the depth collar until the motor column slides freely.
38436
Motor depth collar
Speed Control
MotorGuide VariMAX motors offer a new digital method of variable speed control that
provides more efficient power consumption and precise speed control in 270° of handle
rotation. VariMAX Digital variable speed control allows you to set the exact speed you want,
whether in forward or reverse, for maximum control.
NOTE: Speed control is operable regardless of handle position. For top housing
reorientation, refer to Custom Applications.
Rotate the handle clockwise to increase speed in both forward and reverse directions. The
BluVis function display indicates speed‑setting.
b 100%
90%
a 80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
38443
Direction Control
The intuitive push–forward, pull–reverse direction control lets you increase the speed by
turning the handle clockwise, whether in forward or reverse. To shift and change the
direction of the propeller, simply pull back or push forward on the handle. The BluVis funtion
display shows your relative speed setting and direction when the propeller is moving.
IMPORTANT: To shift the motor and change the direction of the propeller, the power must
be below 50% to provide instant direction control for forward and reverse. The motor will
only shift if below the 50% speed setting to protect the motor from damage.
Transom Mount Application
To move the boat forward, pull the handle. To move the boat in reverse, push the handle.
The BluVis function display indicates the motor direction.
39222 39101
Reverse Forward
Transom Mount—Backtrolling Application
To use the transom mount for backtrolling, reverse the top housing position and toggle the
direction control switch. Refer to Custom Applications.
To backtroll, pusd the handle. To reverse backtroll, pull the handle. The BluVis function
display indicates the motor direction.
39223 39102
39224 39103
Reverse Forward
Notes:
! 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 all maintenance performed and save maintenance work orders and receipts.
SELECTING REPLACEMENT PARTS
Original MotorGuide Certified Tough replacement parts.
Storage Preparation
The major consideration in preparing your trolling motor for storage is to protect it from
corrosion and damage caused by freezing of trapped water.
Refer to the Maintenance - Inspection and Maintenance Schedule section and complete
the appropriate care instructions to prepare your trolling motor for storage. Store the trolling
motor in a dry location where it will not be affected by temperatures below ‑29 °C
(‑20 °F).
IMPORTANT: Trolling motors stored in temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) should be
operated slowly for a minimum of 15 minutes before going above 30% operation.
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.
Propeller Replacement
! 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.
38536
38630
Propeller pin
2. Install the propeller onto the motor shaft by engaging the propeller onto the propeller
pin.
38538
38536
4. Use a MotorGuide propeller wrench or pliers to tighten the propeller nut another ¼ turn.
Recommended MotorGuide Accessory Description Part Number
MotorGuide Prop Wrench Kit MGA050B6
38636
Allen wrench
3. Raise the top housing until the height pin disengages.
38670
Height pin
4. Rotate the top housing to the desired position and push the top housing back down to
engage the height pin.
38638
a - Top housing
b - Eight position settings
5. Tighten the top housing retaining bolt with an Allen wrench. Tighten securely.
38636
Allen wrench
38636
Allen wrench
3. Remove the top housing from the shaft.
NOTE: Do not remove the heat‑sink grease on the motor shaft. Heat‑sink grease will not
wash out of clothing.
39092
Top housing removed from shaft
4. Rotate the top housing upside‑down to expose the direction control switch inside.
5. Slide the switch away from the handle.
NOTE: If necessary, use a flathead screwdriver to slide the direction control switch.
A A
B B
39225 39064
Transom application (default) Bow, pontoon or backtrolling application
6. Replace the top housing onto the motor shaft.
7. Rotate the top housing to the desired position and push the top housing back down to
engage the height pin.
38638
a - Top housing
b - Eight position settings
8. Retighten the top housing retaining bolt with a Allen wrench. Tighten securely.
Torque Description Nm lb‑in. lb‑ft
Top housing retaining bolt 8.5 75 –
38636
Allen wrench
IMPORTANT: Disconnect the VariMAX motor control wiring for service only. Do do not
reconfigure the motor control wiring when reorienting the motor top housing between
transom and bow applications.
NOTE: If necessary, use needle‑nose pliers to connect the motor control wire to the
respective terminal. Ensure the wiring connection is secure.
A RED A BLK
B BLK B RED
39226 38772
Transom Bow or pontoon
Notes:
Troubleshooting
NOTE: For service information, contact any certified MotorGuide Service Center. For a full
listing of MotorGuide service centers, go to www.motorguide.com or contact any Mercury
Service office. Refer to Owner Service Assistance.
Symptom Possible Cause Resolution
Weak battery
Refer to Wiring and Battery
Loose or corroded battery Information.
connections
Service Assistance
Your satisfaction with your product is very important to us. If you have a problem or question
about your motor, contact your dealer or any certified MotorGuide Service Center. For more
service assistance information, refer to Warranty Information.
The following information will be needed by the service office:
• Your name and address
• Daytime telephone number
• Model and serial number of your trolling motor
• Proof of purchase or registration verification
• Nature of problem
Canada
Telephone (905) 567‑6372 Mercury Marine Ltd.
2395 Meadowpine Blvd.
Fax (905) 567‑8515 Mississauga, Ontario L5N 7W6
Canada
Australia, Pacific
Telephone (61) (3) 9791‑5822 Mercury Marine Australia
132-140 Frankston Road
Fax (61) (3) 9793‑5880 Dandenong, Victoria 3164
Australia
Japan
Telephone 81‑053‑423‑2500 Mercury Marine - Japan
Anshin-cho 283-1
Hamamatsu
Fax 81‑053‑423‑2510 Shizuoka-ken, Japan 435-0005
Japan
Asia, Singapore
Telephone 5466160 Mercury Marine Singapore
72 Loyang Way
Fax 5467789 Singapore, 508762
Notes:
Section 10 - Accessories
Table of Contents
Trolling Motor Accessories................................. 54
10
Comes complete with spare prop nut and two prop pins, allowing fast prop
MGA050B6
changes.
37853
Replacement Handle
With soft grip handle and Tour rope for unsurpassed durability. 8M4000275
39084
Mounting Isolators
Absorbs shock and protects electronics. Ideal for mounting all marine
MGA015PB6
accessories without having to go under the deck. Four per package.
39086
Absorbs shock and protects electronics. Steel bolts and washers fit all
8M4000873
trolling motors. Four per package.
39087
6 Gauge Battery Cable and Terminals with 50‑Amp Manual Reset Breaker
Protect your investment with this 50‑amp manual reset breaker and
MM309922T
heavy‑duty 6‑gauge battery cable and terminal.
38006
38007
38005