Mounting Trolling Motor on 14' Crestliner

[Andyfender]

I am getting a new trolling motor. I am thinking of getting the Minn Kota Power Drive V2 or the Terrova. My question is will I be able to mount a Bow mount trolling motor on this? I know I will have to remove the mount and the outlet for the lights. The boat is a 14' Crestliner

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Mounting Trolling Motor on 14' Crestliner

You don't have to remove them -- just move them to one side or the other. The troller does not have to mounted dead center. It should be mounted at an angle so when it is stowed the shaft follows the side of the boat. The motor will pull forward regardless of the angle at which it is mounted.

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Mounting Trolling Motor on 14' Crestliner

^^^ Yup.

The cleat most likely will have to go (relocate) but the light socket looks like it might be OK, have to slap the TM mount up there and see how it fits.

I'd through bolt it with nuts and washers underneath, rubber washers between boat and TM mount. If the bow pad is just a sheet of aluminum, use a backer board underneath. I'm guessing it has plywood underneath though.

 

[Andyfender]

Re: Mounting Trolling Motor on 14' Crestliner

Would it be a good move to also put on a quick release plate?

 

[Andyfender]

Re: Mounting Trolling Motor on 14' Crestliner

You don't have to remove them -- just move them to one side or the other. The troller does not have to mounted dead center. It should be mounted at an angle so when it is stowed the shaft follows the side of the boat. The motor will pull forward regardless of the angle at which it is mounted.

Thanks Silvertip !

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Mounting Trolling Motor on 14' Crestliner

Quick release plates serve two main purposes. 1) If you trailer the boat you can remove the motor in seconds and store it in the tow vehicle or if at home and the boat sits outside you can bring it in the house or garage to prevent theft. 2) It allows a standard boat cover to fit better for towing or even when docked. A quick release plate has a lock provision so the motor can't be removed (easily of course). Other than the reasons above, the plate does not make the motor perform better. It is just a convenience and security feature.