Dolphin S300i stops cleaning after a few minutes

[joshuazzx]

I have a S300i about 2.5 years old. It started to have the following issue recently.

When starting a new cleaning cycle, it moves back and forth, then the impeller will start pushing water but only for about 15 seconds. The robot would keep moving for about 5 minutes with impeller not rotating, then it stops completely, and the button on the power supply turns red.

I have read a lot of post and YouTube video. First, I switched to another Power Supply which is known to work, the cleaner still behaves the same. Then I opened the motor assembly and there was no water invasion. I disassembled the impeller motor and found a lot of carbon dust due to the worn of the motor brush. The brush is pretty much worn out, so I replaced the carbon brush of the motor. However, after putting back everything, the robot still behave the same.

How to troubleshoot next? What could be the component could cause this issue?

Any suggestion is appreciated.

 

[Jimrahbe]

Josh,

When the robot starts, it does a self-test.. Runs forward a little, then runs backwards a little, then blows water out the top.. If it fails this self-test, it will just shut off. It measures the motor currents during this test and if the motor draws too much current, it will fail the test.

You have done more than most in your attempt to fix it. I have two ideas, but based on what you have already done, I'm not sure how helpful they will be..

1. The shaft on impeller motor can get string-like derbies wrapped around it under the impeller. This causes the motor to run slow..
2. There are no bearings, but the two plastic surfaces that acts like bearings wear out so the fit is very sloppy.. You can try changing the Wheel Kits..

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Other then that, I am out of ideas..

Thanks,

Jim R.

 

[joshuazzx]

Josh,

When the robot starts, it does a self-test.. Runs forward a little, then runs backwards a little, then blows water out the top.. If it fails this self-test, it will just shut off. It measures the motor currents during this test and if the motor draws too much current, it will fail the test.

You have done more than most in your attempt to fix it. I have two ideas, but based on what you have already done, I'm not sure how helpful they will be..

1. The shaft on impeller motor can get string-like derbies wrapped around it under the impeller. This causes the motor to run slow..
2. There are no bearings, but the two plastic surfaces that acts like bearings wear out so the fit is very sloppy.. You can try changing the Wheel Kits..

Robotic Replacement Parts - Maytronics S300 and S300i

Lowest Prices Guaranteed. Same Day Shipping. THE Leading Experts of Maytronics Dolphin Replacement Parts and Robotic Pool Cleaners. Authorized Service Center and Elite Dealer. All Maytronics Parts Available. Call 303-985-0077 if you do not see the part you need or if you need assistance with...

marinapoolspaandpatio.com

Other then that, I am out of ideas..

Thanks,

Jim R.

Hi Jim,

Thanks for the reply, how long does the self-test normally take? It looks to me the self-test has past because after it blows water out the top initially, the robot still moves at the bottom of the pool for about 5 minute, acting like it is cleaning, the mobile app shows the cleaning progress about reached 5% before it was shut down.

The impeller motor should be free of debris as I opened the motor and replaced the brush. I suspect it is something on the circuit board, but not sure if the circuit board can be purchase separately.

 

[Mdragger88]

Not a fix but a reminder.
If you purchased your bot with a credit card that has extended warranty protections you may be able to get it replaced by filing a claim.
Many extend the warranty an additional year after the manufacturers warranty expires.
My particular visa allows for up to three years. So 2yrs manufacturer + 1 additional year = 3yrs total.
Best of luck