Motor Cleaning & Maintenance GuideUpdated 2 hours ago
Foil Drive motors are designed to be hardy and robust, but they are regularly exposed to salt water, sand and other contaminants.
Regular cleaning and maintenance after each session will help prevent corrosion, protect the bearings and ensure your motor remains reliable for years to come.
Rinse With Fresh Water
After every session, remove the rotor from the stator and rinse with fresh water as soon as possible.
Salt water and other contaminants can remain trapped between the Rotor and Stator. If left in place, they can contribute to corrosion and other issues over time.
If you don't have access to a hose or running water, use a bottle of fresh water to rinse the motor. Even a thorough rinse with a drink bottle is better than leaving salt water on the motor.
Fresh water riding
Even if you ride exclusively in fresh water, rinsing your motor is still recommended.
Fresh water can contain minerals, dirt and other debris that can accumulate within the motor and contribute to issues over time.
Inspect Stator and Rotor
After rinsing:
- Allow the components to dry completely.
- Inspect the Rotor, Stator and bearings for any signs of corrosion, damage or debris.
Salt water is particularly aggressive, and even a small amount of residue left between the components can begin the oxidation process. If corrosion develops unnoticed, it can eventually cause the motor to become difficult to turn or seize completely!
Lubricate and Protect
Once the stator and rotor are completely dry, apply a light coating of a suitable marine rust-preventative lubricant, such as WD40 Lanolin or Fluid Film to both the stator and rotor, if needed.
This helps protect the metal surfaces from corrosion.
Important: Less is best! Lanolin application should be applied as needed, and not after every session!
Reinstalling the Rotor
Take care when reinstalling the Rotor onto the Stator.
The powerful magnets can cause the Rotor to suddenly pull towards the Stator.
Always use two hands and slowly guide the Rotor into position.
As the magnets begin to engage:
- Keep both hands on the Rotor.
- Control its movement as it approaches the Stator.
- Do not allow the Rotor to slam onto the Stator.
Allowing the Rotor to snap onto the Stator can place unnecessary impact loads on the bearings and may damage them.
Quick Maintenance Checklist
After every session
☐ Remove the Rotor from the Stator
☐ Rinse the Rotor and Stator with fresh water
☐ Remove all visible salt, sand and debris
☐ Allow the components to dry completely
☐ Inspect for corrosion or damage - Including the bearings!
☐ Lightly lubricate once dry
☐ Store with the Rotor removed from the Stator
When reinstalling the Rotor
☐ Use two hands
☐ Slowly guide the Rotor onto the Stator
☐ Control the Rotor as the magnets engage
☐ Do not allow the Rotor to slam onto the Stator
A few minutes of care after each session can significantly improve the longevity and reliability of your Foil Drive motor.