I have a 55lb Minn Kota 12 volt that is not working right. I thought that the battery was weak so I replaced it. When I engage the motor it makes a grinding sound and turns very slow. Not enough spin to even pull the 17 foot aluminum boat. What I was wondering was does it need some bearings or can it even be rebuilt or does anyone know what the problem could be. Thanks for any help.

Simple test: grab the prop and turn it clockwise, counter clockwise. Do you hear a clicking sound, feel like it's dragging? If so, you have a magnet that has popped loose off the housing and has attached itself to the armature. You need a new housing.

i saw a minn once that the motor armature took a good lick and broke the housing that holds the front bearing, did the same thing ,have you had the motor off and possibly dropped it on the prop its a cheap fix the part i think was a bout 15 bucks at southwestern