MotorGuide trolling motor

[darrenf442]

I have a question. I have an older motorguide and when it's running with the switch on so that the motor runs all the time and i let my foot off the peddle the shaft turns one way so that the boat goes in slow circles. I always thought i could have the motor running and walk away and the boat would keep going in the same direction. Is this noramal for the older motors or do i have a problem.

Its difficult to describe but i hope you get the picture

Happy Holidays

 

[trumanlake]

Re: MotorGuide trolling motor

Remove the top cover, you should see the small gear that attaches to the inner shaft. There will be a locking screw that you will need to loosen (allen wrench), then you can load that bearing just a little more by turning that gear down just a little more. Then relock the gear. You will also notice that you will need to get the rack gear and the nylon housing out of the way first before you can turn the gear. Hope this helps.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: MotorGuide trolling motor

It's the torque of the motor that causes the shaft to turn. Adjusting the tension may help but just like driving a boat when the big motor is running. You can set the throttle and it will stay there but you cannot walk away from the steering.

 

[darrenf442]

Re: MotorGuide trolling motor

We have a few long and narrow lakes here and they are pretty straight so being able to slow troll for walleye is great. Its nice to be able to set your direction and your away. I had a transom mount 55 lbs i bought cheap and it did the trick but i would need a special bracket for the back so i had it up front as well. So being able to just point the motor and go is great there are places were you would not have to touch the motor for 5-10 minutes.

Thanks for the advise.

 

[John_S]

Re: MotorGuide trolling motor

Sounds like you want an Auto Pilot trolling motor. The latest MK trolling motors also have a gps enabled version. You will spend some $ to get it, though.

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: MotorGuide trolling motor

If you want to be able to troll with a bow-mount from the stern you should see if you can get a wireless fob control for the motor. Minn Kota sells them and they are pricey, but it beats not being able to control the boat in the event of an emergency.

Or you cold possibly lengthen the cord on the foot pedal so you can move it aft to meet your needs.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: MotorGuide trolling motor

Most motors, especially cable steer, have a friction adjustment. Since we have no idea whether you have a cable steer or electric steer, we can't be of much additional help.