Minn Kota Endura 30lb on a 15.5ft Runabout?

[REN3G8]

I have a 15.5 ft Sunray runabout, this is my first boat that will be used for some fishing and leisure on the lakes.

My question is... do you think a 30lb Minn Kota Endura 30lb would move it?? I've found one local to me for a good price, I'm trying to stay within a limit this year and maybe next year upgrade to a bigger motor.

Thanks for any advise!

 

[ondarvr]

It will move the boat, but you won't be pleased with the results, and most of the 30# motors have a rather short shaft, which may not be long enough for your application.

 

[REN3G8]

gotcha thanks, found a Shakespeare 55lb as well but unsure about what the quality would be like... seems like they're hit and miss.

I assume the 55lb would do much better, or maybe just enough...

BTW these would be Transom mounted since I have a closed bow.

 

[ondarvr]

I know nothing about Shakespeare, but the brand isn't known for high quality.

55# is plenty.

​Shaft length will be important, make sure the prop is below the hull.

 

[ajgraz]

Just for reference: I once had a 55lb motorguide saltwater trolling motor transom mounted on my 15' trihull. It could do maybe 2 knots on the dead calmest of days at full speed. Any wind or current, or any setting less than full, and forget it.

On the other hand, that boat is kinda heavy (and heavily loaded), I'm kinda heavy, there's always wind and current where I boat, and it was only a 12v (if that even makes any difference, I don't know).

 

[gm280]

I think 55 pound is about maxed out for a 12 volt setup. Anything beyond that probably goes to 24 volt system. :noidea:

 

[REN3G8]

yeah looks like 55lb at 12volt would be max, I'm assuming 24v I'd have to run a separate battery since the boat system wouldn't be able to supply 24v to the motor.

 

[ondarvr]

You will need a separate battery no matter what you do, but with 24V you will need two more batteries.