Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

[nathan104]

I am trying to decide between two Minn Kota trolling motors. Both are pretty much the same price and both are 40 lbs thrust (should be enough for my 15' fibergladd bass boat on small lake) and both are foot control.

I am looking at two different ones, both available at Walmart.com. I have store credit that Im using for this purchase so its pretty much limited to these two.

First one is the Minn Kota Edge 40 model # 1355803. It has the regular big heel/toe foot control http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4836802

Second is the Minn Kota Pwerdrive model # 40PD. http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=1733328This one has a strange looking small mount and a long cable with a small foot control you can move all over the boat. Ive never seen this one in person so am having trouble considering if it is practical and something that would be good to have. I cant find reviews on them through google.

On the one hand Ive used the big foot control on the first one and am familiar with it.

On the other hand, the 40PD says it has the battery maximizer technology that makes the charge last 5X longer, and the mount looks much shorter(which would be a plus on my boat)

I have no idea which one would be easier to put up and down which would help make the decision with a bad back.

The powerdrive model also has a 48" shaft while the Edge has a 42" shaft. Not sure of what difference that makes though.

Any help, opinions, experience with either of these?? Thanks.

 

[DJ]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

PowerDrive-Hands Down.

They work great and the Maximizer technology is real and makes a big difference in battery life.

 

[nathan104]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

How does the small portable foot control compare to the big ones? I have huge feet(stop laughing) and the little foot control just looks a little strange. Also, anyone familiar with the small mounts on these? Thanks.

 

[DJ]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

nathan,

I've had both (cable op. and PD). I also have large feet-- 13 EEE.

Frankly, my feet are too big for either. But a soft soled shoe made either easier to operate.

I also like the small control because you can move all over the boat with it. Not true with the cables.

The small mount makes the unit actually easier to mount. It requires a much smaller footprint. Also, the PD mount can be made into a quick release by purchasing Minn Kota's nifty quick release mounting bracket.

If you have a choice, the PD is the way to go.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

I agree the PD is the winner hands down. The PD will run far longer on a charge. If you trailer the boat or if its stored outside, the PD can be quickly removed with the optional quick disconnect base. Although you can use the same setup with the cable steer, you cannot separate the controls from the motor like you can with the PD. The PD can therefore be easily stored inside for protection or put inside the boat if you have a travel cover. You will find operating the foot control on the PD is easier if you simply step on the sides of the control for left-right steering rather than trying to rock your foot so foot size is not an issue. For $99 bucks more you can by a co-pilot which is deal about the size of a remote entry fob for your car. No feet involved. It can be worn like a watch or strapped onto your rod. They also make a corded version that works the same way.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

PD is a lot easier on the legs too as you don't have to keep your foot on the pedal all the time.

 

[nathan104]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

Thanks for all the info. I guess it is overwhelming and I will go with the powerdrive.

I will not be getting the quick release mount or the remote copilot as all I can afford is the TM. Of course down the road a year or so perhaps I can pick them up.

Hopefully it doesnt take too long for walmart to deliver it as Im anxious to get fishing.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

i bought a motorguide W45, which is the wireless unit. the key fob is great. i don't even use the foot control. as the airline says you are free to move about the cabin. so in your case go with the powerdrive and upgrade it when you can.

 

[b.gagnon]

Re: Help me decide. Minn Kota 40PD or Edge 40

I have the 40PD from Walmart and love it!
It is also about $50 less there....