Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
What boat size's are ideal for a Thoosa solutions ?
Asmo Marine’s off-the-shelf Thoosa solutions are ideal for boats from 16-40 feet, and a weight up to 10 ton.
For larger boats Asmo Marine makes customized solutions tailored to your needs.
How much motoring time does Asmo Marine’s systems provide ?
Motoring is limited only by cruising speed and the size of the battery bank. The distance that can be achieved by our solutions, depend on the boat drag, the size of the battery bank and the speed when motoring.
The figure below, show the approximate distance covered with a Thoosa 6000 solution in calm weather, in a 33 feet sailboat, with a displacement of 3500 kilo.
How much electricity does the motor use?
By a Thoosa 6000 (48V systems), the motor uses 15-20 Amps, when motoring in a 33 feet - 3.5 ton sailboats, at a cruising speed at 4 knots.
Which type of batteries should be chosen?
The choice of battery type is subject to usage.
1. Semi traction batteries – are recommended for normal usage.
2. Gel Semi traction batteries – gives additional security for normal usage.
How long can my batteries last ?
The lifetime of batteries is subject to usage. For most sailors, the batteries will last for 5-10 years, if they are well maintained.
Where should I place my batteries ?
You can place the batteries anywhere in the boat. The possibility of contributing the weight of the batteries to the most optimal sailing condition of the boat, is another advantage of an electric motor solution.
What size of cable should be used for wiring?
For a Thoosa 6000 installation, we recommend that 35-50 mm2 is used.
For a Thoosa 8500 installation, we recommend that 50-70 mm2 is used.
How long does it take to recharge the batteries?
Charging time depends on the battery pack and the charger used. We recommend to use a charger with a minimum output of 10-20 % of the battery pack. This means, if using 100 AH battery pack, you will charge with 10-20 Amps and the charging time will be 5-10 hours. If you choose a larger charger, you can restore the battery packs even faster.
Can I use the 24 or 48 V battery bank for 12 V applications?
Yes, by using a DC – DC converter, 12 V power on board applications, can be powered direct from the 48 V battery bank.
How do I control speed?
The engine comes with a waterproof, infinitely variable forward/back throttle, making speed control and maneuvering easy and accurate. The throttle functions exactly the same as a diesel engine. The throttle mounts the same as a conventional throttle, with top and side mount options available.
How quickly does the motor react?
The engine power kicks in immediately, making manoeuvring easier and more accurate. The instant full momentum also provides better acceleration and ensures, that the boat can be quickly stopped in hazardous situations.
Can I regenerate while sailing?
Yes, when choosing a Thoosa RG model, the system can regenerate when sailing for sail.
Regenerating is done, by letting the propeller turn while sailing and using the motor as dynamo.
Can I regenerate, if I have a folding propeller?
Yes, it is possible to regenerate with a folding propeller, but is has a slightly lower effect, in comparison with a fixed propeller.
Regenerating with a folding propeller starts at 4 knots speed, to obtain the necessary RPM on the propeller to ensure that the centrifugal force keeps the propeller from folding.
Do I lose a lot of speed when regenerating?
With a fixed propeller your boat loses less speed than a folding propeller when regenerating.
If using a folding propeller, you lose approx. 0.2 knots of speed when regenerating.
How much power can I charge when regenerating?
The power charged when regenerating, depends on the cruising speed and the size of the propeller, and it is therefore very difficult to give charging rates. To indicate how much power is charged, our test shows that recharging for 1/2 hour at 5-6 knots, normally equals the power used for harbor maneuvering.
Can solar panels or wind generators be used to charge the batteries?
Yes, both solar panels and wind generators can be used to charge the batteries.
What maintenance does a Thoosa System require?
Once a Thoosa system is installed, it requires very little maintenance. There are only two parts that will need replacement due to wear and tear.
The belt for the gearing has a lifetime of approx. 8.000 hours, but we recommend that the belt is changed every third year.
The need for replacement of the brushes depends on the usage of the engine. Running the engine at max – the lifetime is approx. 3000 hours. Running the engine at a cruising speed of 4 knots, the lifetime is approx. 6000 hours. The actual lifetime of the brushes will be in between these two figures.
Can the system stand up to water?
The motors used in the Thoosa systems can take the rough weather at sea. The motors can run under water, but we recommend that they are exposed to as little water as possible to increase the lifetime of the motor.
The electronic control unit can not stand up to water, so it has to be placed in a dry space with other on board electrical appliances.
Can a Thoosa system be combined with a diesel generator?
Yes, the system is prepared to function together with a diesel generator.
The hybrid solution is especially used by sailors who already have a diesel generator to power an air-condition system – or by sailors that want a totally flexible solution, enjoying the calm motoring provided by the E-motor and the long distance provided by the generator.
Where can I get service?
The system is made by components that can be changed individually. This means that most electricians and marine centers can provide service.
Can I use my existing propeller and shaft?
Yes, most sailors can use the existing propeller and shaft when going from a diesel solution to a Thoosa system.
Can I use my existing foundation?
Yes, the Thoosa solutions can use most foundations made for diesel engines.