Ideas on running wires to a trolling motor

[Homerr]

Boat: 21ft.<br />Trolling motor: Minn-Kota 35 (17lb. thrust max)<br /><br />(Yes the motor is too small for this boat, but it works, and it was free until I get a bigger one )<br /><br />I'm running the trolling motor off the front of the boat. I really don't want to have a battery in the front of the boat since I already have 2 in the back (1 for starting, the other a deep-cycle for accessories)<br /><br />Can I Run heavy guage wire from my aux battery to the front of the boat and the trolling motor? <br />It would need to be about a 25 foot run after you get around all the bends and bulkheads.<br />I'd use some sort of connector up front to just plug the trolling motor in.<br /><br />I'm wondering what kind of current draw I'm looking at?<br /><br />If this is possible to do, what size wire should I use? 8 guage? 10? 12?<br />And to be "marine approved" and keep the insurance company happy, what kind/type of wire should I use?<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />H.

 

[richg99]

Re: Ideas on running wires to a trolling motor

Go to http://www.ancorproducts.com/ look for "technical information" and you will find a wire gauge calculator. RichG

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Ideas on running wires to a trolling motor

I don't think there's anything special you have to do to be "marine approved", just make sure the wiring is good and all connections are covered. I would suggest painting everything with "liquid electrical tape" which does a better job of sealing then regular tape or heat shrink tubing.

 

[Bigfun]

Re: Ideas on running wires to a trolling motor

Also, you can use the correct length of .5" pvc water pipe to hide and protect all your wires.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Ideas on running wires to a trolling motor

Homerr – I suggest installing the wiring for 12v. It will allow for the use of either 12v or 24v TM in the future. Also, wire for the larger of your freebee TM or the TM you plan on getting later. You don’t want to have to repeat this wiring project later.<br /><br />Also, Bigfun’s advice is good. Personally, I use flexible plastic shielding for all wires but there is some pvc tubing run under the fuel tank to allow for grounding wires to be pushed thru. And be sure to anchor all wiring and shielding so it doesn’t flop around or get snagged on anything.