Operation Guide

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Table of Contents

Power Porter Operation Guide: How to Use Your Electric Barrow with Confidence

Carp Porter’s Power Porters are the gold standard in tackle transport — engineered to deliver unmatched performance while staying incredibly intuitive to operate. Whether you’re new to motorised barrows or just looking to get the most out of your system, this guide offers a quick but thorough run-down on how to use your Power Porter safely and effectively.

1. Hand Controller Overview

Your hand controller is the central command hub for your Power Porter. Simple, waterproof, and easy to operate, it gives you full control over direction, speed, and drive engagement. Let’s break down each component from left to right.

Directional Control Switch (F/R)

Located under the rain-covered toggle, you’ll find a switch marked with F (Forward) and R (Reverse). Simply click the direction you want the barrow to move in. It’s as easy as that.

F = Forward
R = Reverse
Designed for quick, intuitive use even in wet conditions

Power Indicator LED

Next to the directional switch is a small LED light that displays your current battery level:

Green = Good power
Orange = Medium power
Red = Low power

Note on lead acid batteries:
Under high load (e.g., uphill or fully loaded barrow), voltage can dip temporarily, causing the LED to turn orange even if the battery is mostly charged. To get an accurate reading, turn the barrow off and on again, then check the light.

Flashing light?
This may indicate a basic fault code. If the LED flashes repeatedly, contact our customer support team for advice and troubleshooting.

Speed Control Dial

To the right of the LED is your speed dial:

Turn clockwise to switch the barrow on and gradually increase speed
Turn anti-clockwise to reduce speed until it clicks off — this is how you power the unit down
Adjust as needed depending on terrain, incline, and load

The dial offers variable speed control, allowing you to find the ideal setting for your session. Take some time to get a feel for different speed levels based on your gear and the ground you’re covering.

Green ‘Go’ Button

Located just below the dial, this button engages the barrow’s drive system and puts your barrow into motion.

Press to start moving
Release to stop

Built-in Safety Features:

Soft Start: The barrow accelerates smoothly when you press the button, giving you better control — especially in tight spaces or on unstable ground.
Soft Stop: When you let go of the button, the barrow gradually slows to a stop rather than jolting to a halt.
Instant Stop (New for 2025): If you press the button for six seconds or less, the soft stop is overridden — the drive cuts immediately when released.
This feature was designed with van users in mind, giving you complete control when loading up ramps or stopping near hard surfaces.

2. Weather Protection and Best Practice

While the controller is fully waterproof and built to handle wet conditions, we always recommend a little extra care in heavy weather.

During use in light rain: No issue — the controller is designed for bankside conditions.
During heavy downpours or prolonged storage: Cover the controller with a waterproof sheet or protective case.
Not in use? Make sure the controller is covered to prevent unnecessary water exposure.

Our Carp Porter barrow covers are sized to stretch over your tackle and the hand controller at the same time, offering full protection from the elements.

In Summary

Operating your Power Porter is as straightforward as it is powerful:

Set direction (F/R)
Check battery level (LED)
Dial in your speed
Press and go

Whether you’re pushing over gravel, through mud, or up a steep path, you remain in full control — no drama, no fuss.

Need help with your setup or think your controller might be showing a fault?
Contact the Carp Porter support team and we’ll be happy to assist.