NEWPORT NK180PRO Electric Kayak Motor Instruction Manual

NEWPORT NK180PRO Electric Kayak Motor Instruction Manual

Leading Innovator of NEXT-GENERATION ELECTRIC
Small Boat Motors

The leading innovator of next-generation electric small boat motors, Newport®, has delivered unrivaled experiences on the water for more than a decade.

As passionate, lifelong members of the angling community, we are committed to a cleaner, simpler future and a better fishing experience for everyone.

Newport’s pioneering technology redefines electric power to reduce the hassle, cost and harmful impact on our environment associated with traditional gas- fueled motors.

At Newport, the way forward is electric. Visit newportvessels.com.

866-721-0002
[email protected]
newportvessels.com

Please read and retain this manual before using this electric motor. This manual contains information that describes the procedure for safe operation and daily maintenance of your electric motor. Safe operation will prevent personal injury and damage to the product.

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

Thank you for purchasing the NK180 PRO Electric Kayak Motor. We hope that you enjoy it!
The NK180 PRO Kayak Motor is designed with direct-drive and field-oriented- control technology to deliver the ultimate efficiency in a compact package. The propulsive power of the NK180 PRO is roughly equivalent to a 1.8hp petrol outboard motor, but with silent and emission free power delivery.

The NK180 PRO Electric Kayak Motor is compatible with conventional 24V deep cycle batteries, 24V LFP lithium battery, and 24V lithium cobalt oxide batteries. The battery type can be changed at the press of a button.

1.1 PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
Check the figure below to find the serial number of your product. You will need this as a reference to access after-sale services. The serial number is on the back of the product:

1.2 INCLUDED IN YOUR BOX
Here is what should be included in your NK180 PRO. Please contact us directly if something is missing from this list of contents.

2 TECHNICAL DATA

3 SAFETY INFORMATION

3.1 CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
Please read all safety information before installing or operating your electric motor. Severe injury, damage, or even death can occur as a result of improper usage.
WARNING: There is a risk of death or severe injury from electric shock- use caution and do not touch any uninsulated wires or damaged parts.

• Do not use damaged batteries.
• If wiring is frayed or broken, do not touch it.
• If repair work is needed to the electrical components of your product, do not attempt to do it yourself.
• If there is any problem with the system, turn off the power immediately and avoid touching the metal components.

**** WARNING: There is a risk of explosion which could result in death, serious injury, or property damage due to the production of oxyhydrogen gas from the battery.

• If the battery becomes submerged in water deeper than one meter for a short period of time, do not attempt to recover the battery, and refer to the safety instructions provided by the battery manufacturer.
• If the battery has been submerged in shallow water, less than a meter, for more than 30 minutes, do not attempt to recover the battery, and refer to the safety instructions provided by the battery manufacturer.

**** WARNING: Electromagnetic radiation may cause death or severe injuries to people with cardiac pacemakers. Those with pacemakers should not get too close to the motor and should consult their physician about the proper distance for safety.

**** WARNING: There is inherent danger in using a boat – always prepare for the unexpected. A boat which is out of control can easily result in severe injuries or death by drowning.
Always check weather predictions and water conditions before a trip on the water, and also familiarize yourself with a map of the area you’ll be traversing.

Depending on the size of your boat, make sure you bring any proper safety equipment. Paddle(s) and a communication device are a must for any size of boat, and if appropriate, also bring an anchor and extra drive.

Always check your motor and system for any damage and ensure they are running properly before leaving the dock.

**** WARNING: Use caution around rotating components to avoid possible injury or even death.

• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry near the motor shaft or propeller and tie up long hair.
• Never attempt maintenance or cleaning of the motor shaft or propeller without first shutting off the system.
• Power down the motor when there are people too near the propeller or motor shaft.
• Do not use the propeller out of the water.

CAUTION: Batteries can cause severe physical harm or even death in many different ways. Always read and follow all safety even death in many different ways. Always read and follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by your battery manufacturer.

• Never use third-party chargers for batteries, it could start a fire.
• If the battery catches fire during use, use water to cool the battery and prevent fire from spreading; however water will not extinguish a lithium fire – if possible, use sand to smother the fire.

CAUTION: Parts may be hot enough to cause burns. Do not touch the components or battery immediately after use; allow to cool sufficiently before handling the components.
CAUTION: Danger of crushing when tilting the motor- keep fingers, hands, and all body parts away from the mechanical parts and the area of the motor when tilting
the motor.

3.2 BEFORE USE

• This motor should only be operated by an adult who has thorough understanding and command of the motor, including steering functions, emergency stop switch, and throttle.
• Always operate your boat and this motor in compliance with local safety regulations.
• Always carry a paddle on board at all times, especially when using an electric motor as your primary method of propulsion.
• All passengers should wear approved life jackets at all times.
• Check the status and condition of your motor and battery before each trip. We recommend starting every trip with a full battery charge.
• Do not operate the motor outside of the water.
• Do not modify the motor with non-original parts.

3.3 DURING USE

• Stop the motor immediately if someone is over board.
• Propellers are dangerous- use extra caution when operating the motor near areas where people may swim. Always be alert and aware of your surroundings when operating the motor.
• Do not exceed the recommended load and power limitations of your boat as suggested by its manufacturer.

3.4 AFTER USE

• Disconnect the motor from the battery after use.
• Rinse the motor carefully with freshwater after each usage, especially after use in saltwater.
• Do not carry the kayak/boat by lifting with the bracket. This can cause damage to the boat and potentially to the bracket.

4 INSTALLATION

The next several pages will give you detailed instructions on how to install your motor, one piece at a time. Please read all instructions carefully and refer to the diagrams.

4.1.1 INSTALLATION USING EXISTING THREADED INSERTS

1. Place the bracket above the threaded inserts, align the holes on the bracket with threaded inserts
2. Place four M8 screws and four washers over the threaded inserts, as shown in the diagram above, and tighten the screws to mount the bracket. Make sure the screws are tightened and the bracket is flush and secure.

NOTE: We recommend applying torque of 140 in-lb (16Nm) to the screws.

4.1.2 INSTALLATION WITH DRILLING HOLES USING A TEMPLATE

1. Find a proper location on your boat to drill holes. The typical suggested location is the end of the boat/kayak.
2. Drill holes 0.31in (8 mm) in diameter.
3. Place the bracket above the drilled holes, align the holes on the bracket with the drilled holes.
4. Place four M8 screws with washers over the holes, and four washers with four nuts beneath the holes, and tighten the screws to secure the bracket. Make sure the screws are tight and the bracket is flush on the deck and secure.

NOTE: We recommend to apply a torque of 140 in-lb (16Nm) to the screws. Different kayaks may require different installation hardware. If your kayak requires installation hardware other than what is included in this kit, please find it at your local hardware store. Newport does not carry every possible hardware combination necessary to fit all brands and models of kayaks; however any additional mounting hardware needed for your individual craft should be standard, easy to find, and low-cost.

4.1.3 INSTALLATION WITH AN ADAPTING PLATE

1. Place the bracket above the adapting plate and align the holes on the adapting plate with the holes on the bracket.
2. Place four M8 screws and four washers over the holes, four washers and four nuts beneath the holes, and tighten the screws to secure the bracket. Make sure the screws are tight and the bracket is secure.
3. Install the adapting plate in the intended location and make sure the adapting plate is correctly installed and secure.

NOTE: We recommend to apply a torque of 140 in-lb (16Nm) to the screws.

4.2 SETTING UP YOUR STEERING
Kayaks feature many different cable routing systems, while some more basic models have no cable routing. To add cable routing to your particular boat, contact the boat manufacturer for recommendations.
Kayak cable routing can generally be broken down into two categories: cables routed above the deck of the kayak, and cables routed below the deck of the kayak.
Cables routed above deck will usually demand the steering triangle be mounted at the top of the shaft.
This mount is designed to work with high routing setups on kayaks equipped with integrated cable routing.
For kayaks with cable routing requiring you to use the high position, see section Setup with Control Cords at the Top on page 14.
In some cases, further tweaks may be required to refine the operation.

4.2.1 SETUP WITH CONTROL CORDS AT THE TOP
If you have a kayak setup with control cords running on the top of the kayak, follow the steps below to finish the motor control cords setup:

1. Assemble the swing arm and steering triangle as shown above, then insert the screw, washer, and nut as shown and attach loosely- don’t tighten yet.
2. Place the screw, washer and nut on the clamping ring as figure shows, connect them loosely and don’t tighten yet.
3. Make sure the steering triangle is aligned with the direction of the motor. If the triangle is an arrow, it should point towards the front of the boat, while the propeller should face back.
4. Tighten the screws on the clamping ring and the steering triangle.

In this setup, the steering triangle determines the depth of the motor. Make sure the propeller can be at least 2 inches (5 cm) below the water surface.

4.2.2 ADJUSTING MOTOR DEPTH OF WATER AFTER SETUP

1. Hold the motor firmly and loosen the screw on either the clamping ring or the steering triangle, whichever is topmost on the shaft in your set up.
2. Adjust shaft position to find the optimum motor depth in water.
3. Tighten the screws on the clamping ring or the steering triangle (whichever you have on the top of the shaft).

NOTE: Be aware, the screw on the steering triangle or the clamping ring must be tightened well, otherwise the motor may fall into the water!

4.2.3 INSERTING THE MOTOR SUPPORTING DRUM IN THE BRACKET

1. Place the motor assembly at the desired position, align the hole on the drum to the hole on the bracket.
2. Insert the drum shaft, make sure the shaft is centered.
3. Install the knobs on both sides of the shaft. Tighten the knobs.
4. Install the cotter pin on both sides of drum shaft.

4.2.4 CONNECTING THE CORDS
Directional control has 4 options to adjust steering fitment, feel and sensitivity. To control the direction:

1. Secure the cable on one side of the stainless steel biner.
2. Attach the stainless steel biner to the steering triangle.
3. There are four options for steering sensitivity. Attaching the cable to the outer holes will mean direction changes happen more gradually, while attaching it to the inner holes will make direction changes more sudden. It is recommended that you start by hooking the stainless steel biner to the outermost holes.

The cable to perform reverse lock:

The reverse lock secures the motor when it is being used in reverse. It needs to be activated when motor is used in reverse to keep the motor from rotating up and out of water.

1. Tie the cable securely to one side of the biner.
2. Attach the S biner to the reverse lock cord as shown.
3. Thread the cord through the cable guide on the bracket as shown.
4. Install the handle at the other end of the cable.
5. Place the end of the cable where you can access it easily.
6. You may choose to create a dedicated guide for this cable near the handle location as well. See newportvessels.com for more products

The Cable to lift the motor:

1. Tie the nylon cable securely to one of the eye nut.
2. Attach the stainless steel biner to the swing arm as shown.
3. Thread the cord through the biner, and then the cable guide (eye nut) on the bracket. This is necessary to ensure proper function of raise/deploy function.
4. Install the handle on the other end of the cable.

4.3 COMPLETE THE CORD SETUP
This is the overall setup of the motor after all control cables have been installed:

4.4 USING EXTERNAL STEERING SYSTEM

If you are planning on using the motor only for forward/reverse propulsion and are using other methods to steer such as a paddle, you can fix the motor direction with the following steps:

1. Remove the cords on the steering triangle.
2. Insert the fixing screw into the hole as shown.
3. Use the M3 Allen key to tighten the screw securely.
4. Now the direction of the motor is fixed.

4.5 ADJUST THE MOTOR TRIM ANGLE
You can adjust the angle between water surface and the motor using the motor trim angle adjustment design. Follow the steps below if you would like to change the angle of the motor.

1. Tilt the motor up and hold it firmly.
2. Remove the R shaped cotter pin from the trim rod and pull the trim rod out from the current trim position of the bracket.
3. Adjust the motor to the desired angle.
4. Reinsert the trim rod through one of the four positions on the bracket, and insert the R shaped cotter pin to secure the trim rod.

NOTE: Be careful of finger pinching. You can use a flat head screw driver or needle nose pliers to help remove the cotter pin.

4.6 CONNECT TO THE SPEED CONTROLLER

1. Find the signal cable coming from the motor shaft and connect it to the speed controller. Make sure the cable is tightly connected.
2. It is recommended to fit the cable into the cable tidy slot underneath of the speed controller.
3. You can choose to mount the speed controller at the most convenient location for operation. There are two M4 mounting holes with nuts pre-installed on the back of the speed controller which can be used to mount when needed.

4.7 CONNECT TO THE BATTERY
The motor is adaptable with 24V (two 12V batteries connected in series) deep cycle marine battery package, 24V LFP lithium battery (including two 24V LFP lithium batteries connected in series) and 24V lithium cobalt oxide battery package. Please follow the steps below to complete the battery connection.

1. Connect the power extension cable with the quick connect to your battery. The red cable connects to the positive battery terminal and the black cable connects to the negative battery terminal.
2. Make sure the battery cables are connected to the correct terminal. The motor will not operate if battery cables are installed incorrectly.
3. Tighten the connection of the battery cables to the battery terminals. Make sure the connection is solid and secure.
4. To power the motor, plug the connectors from the motor and cable extension together.

WARNING: Be sure all switches are in the OFF position before connecting to battery or batteries. Electrical arcing near the battery could cause an explosion. The battery produces hydrogen and oxygen gases while charging. This potentially explosive mixture escapes through the fill vent cell caps and may form an explosive atmosphere around the battery for several hours after it has been charged. Electrical arcing or flames can ignite the gas and cause an explosion, which may shatter the battery and could cause blindness or other serious injury.

5 CONTROLLER DISPLAY

5.1 OVERVIEW OF MULTI-FUNCTION DISPLAY
The speed controller screen features motor and battery information for the operator to monitor. There are two buttons on the speed controller to control the motor.

5.2 BATTERY DISPLAY
The speed controller screen features motor and battery information for the operator to monitor. There are two buttons on the speed controller to control the motor.

5.2.1 ESTIMATED PERCENT OF REMAINING BATTERY POWER
The battery bar has 6 different status levels to display the estimated remaining battery percentage.

CAUTION: Do not overestimate the remaining battery range; this could result in severe harm or even death.

• Before you leave the dock, know the area you are traveling, how far you plan to go, and make sure to have an alternate plan for safely getting back if anything goes wrong with your motor or battery. Always bring a paddle.
• Monitor the battery level indicator during your trip and always leave a buffer for getting back to shore.

5.2.2 SWITCHING BETWEEN BATTERY TYPES
This motor can run on a 36V deep cycle battery setup, a 36V LFP lithium battery setup, or a 36V lithium cobalt oxide battery.

FIG 20 SWITCHING BETWEEN BATTERY TYPES.JPG

5.3 ERROR STATUS DISPLAY

The icons indicated on the LCD screen above show three possible error statuses of the motor. When a fault occurs, there will be a corresponding code on screen to help diagnose the problem. See section 5.4 Error Codes and Solutions.

Motor overvoltage: If the input voltage is too high, this icon will light up and keep flashing. Please make sure the input voltage to the motor is correct (24V or 25.9V). Ensure the correct battery option is selected (D or Li).

Motor overheated: If the motor driver PCB is over heated, this icon will light up.
Motor stalled: If the motor is stalled, this icon will light up. Please disconnect from the battery and check to see if the propeller has been tangled in weeds or fishing line- these can also get wrapped behind the propeller. Clean the propeller and resume running.

5.4 ERROR CODES AND SOLUTIONS
If there is an issue with the motor function, the display will show an error code to help diagnose the problem and find the solution.

6 OPERATION

6.1 START THE MOTOR
To start the motor please follow the steps below:

1. Place the magnet kill switch on the tiller.

2. Select the battery mode according to the battery type used. Please follow 5.2.2 Switching Between Battery Types to
   operate correctly.

3. Press the power button on the panel.

4. You can now begin to power your motor.

6.2 TRAVEL FORWARD/REVERSE
The motor’s forward/reverse motion is controlled by the accelerator lever on the speed controller. Please refer to the diagram below which demonstrates how to operate.
When switching to reverse, please pull the reverse lock cable to lock the motor and prevent it from tilting up and out of the water. If the motor tilts up, briefly engage the forward throttle while pulling the reverse lock; once the lock is engaged, return throttle to reverse. If the reverse lock is hard to achieve, adjust your setup and try again.

6.3 STEERING THE MOTOR
While the motor is operating, pull the steering cords to control the vessel’s direction:

• To turn left, pull the left cord on the steering triangle.
• To turn right, pull the right cord on the steering triangle.

6.4 EMERGENCY STOP

To stop immediately you can:

• Pull off the magnetic emergency stop switch from the tiller
• Move the accelerator lever on the speed controller to neutral
• If you want to restart the motor after the emergency kill switch is pulled off, move the handle of tiller to the neutral position, return the kill switch, and power on.

6.5 STOPPING THE MOTOR
To stop the motor, follow the steps below:

• Move the handle of tiller to the neutral position.
• Press the On/Off button on the speed controller.
• Remove the emergency kill switch.

6.6 TILTING THE MOTOR
When needed, the motor can be tilted up to stow away or to avoid underwater obstacles. To do this, pull the cord on the swing arm shown in the figure to the right until the motor pulls out of the water and secure the cord in the forward position, keeping the motor out of water. Make sure you secure the cord so that the motor will not drop down when you let go.

6.7 FINISHING THE TRIP
When the trip is finished, please disconnect the motor from the battery and take the motor out of water. If the motor was used in the saltwater, thoroughly rinse the motor with fresh water. This will help prevent corrosion and salt buildup. Only wash the motor; do not get the speed controller wet.

6.8 STOW AND PARK THE MOTOR
When the motor needs to be stowed and parked, tilt the motor up and use string or bungee cord to bind the motor on the bracket. Please use the figure below for reference.

6.9 REMOVE THE MOTOR FROM THE KAYAK
It is very easy to remove the motor from the bracket for travel, however you will want to leave the mount installed. Follow the steps below:

1. Move the accelerator lever to the neutral position, and turn off the motor.
2. Disconnect the motor from the speed controller and battery.
3. Detach all the control cords from the motor.
4. Loose the knobs on the motor support drum, take out the drum shaft and lift the motor from the bracket.

7 CARE AND SERVICES

7.1 CARE OF MOTOR COMPONENTS

• Please regularly follow all maintenance tips to keep your motor in optimal working condition.
• Do not start the motor in shallow water as it may damage the propeller.
• After each use, check between the plastic propeller and metal motor housing for fishing line, weeds, or other debris. ALWAYS DISCONNECT from power before working near the propeller.
• Lubricate all the pivot points with a non-aerosol lubricant. Never use an aerosol lubricant, as many types contain harmful propellants that can cause damage to various parts of your electric motor.

7.2 CORROSION PROTECTION

• After the motor is used in the saltwater, rinse the motor thoroughly with fresh water.
• Before storing the motor, make sure the motor is completely dry and clean.
• Keep cable connectors and plugs in good condition.
• Use a wire brush to remove corrosion when necessary.

7.3 CARE OF BATTERY USAGE

• Check tightness of the battery lead connections.
• Never connect the wires to the wrong battery terminal. You must disconnect the battery during maintenance.
• Recharge batteries after each use. Follow the battery manufacturer’s recommendations for battery maintenance.

7.4 REPLACING THE FIN
You can replace the fin component if it is damaged. To do this, follow the steps below:

1. Release the three M3 screws and nuts.
2. Remove the old fin component.
3. Insert the new fin component.
4. Insert three M3 screws and tighten them.

7.5 REPLACING THE PROPELLER
You can replace the propeller if it is damaged. To do this, follow the steps below with the assembly diagram:

1. Attach the washer.
2. Insert the drive pin into the hole on the motor output shaft.
3. Rotate the propeller until the drive pin is seated correctly in the corresponding channel on the backside of the propeller.
4. Place the washer on the motor shaft after the propeller.
5. Tighten the hex locknut with 17mm socket wrench.

7.6 RECALIBRATE THE THROTTLE
You can recalibrate the throttle when the throttle display is inaccurate. To do this, follow the steps below:

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

FOR RECREATIONAL CRAFT
Propulsion Engine with the requirements of Directive 89/392/EEC as amended by 89/336/EEC.

Engine type approved according to:
Directives 89/392/EEC, 89/336/EE
Description of Engine(s) and Essential Requirements
Engine Type: Outboard Engine
Fuel Type: Electric

This declaration of conformity is issued under the sole responsibility of the manufacturer. I declare on behalf of the manufacturer that the motor(s) is (are) in conformity with the type(s) for which above mentioned EC, EMC and ROHC type-examination or type approval certificate(s) has (have) been issued and it will meet the requirements of Directive 89/392/EEC, 89/336/EEC as amended when installed in a recreational craft, in accordance with the manufacturer’s supplied instructions.

CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If you have questions that are not answered in this manual or troubleshooting is not successful, please contact Newport! Our California based customer service team is standing by to assist you. 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM ET

866-721-0002
[email protected]
newportvessels.com

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References

• Newport® Next-Generation Electric Motors | Revolutionizing the Water

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