shaft replacement, minnkota PD65

[68C15]

I bought a 2002 model 65PD with AP with 60" shaft used for a REAL good price. the problem I have is the shaft is too long for my boat. after research and measurement I determined I need to make it 14" shorter so it will fit on the bow of my 1970 Alumacraft Jamaica 15' trihull. I removed the AP cover and see it will be easy to make it shorter. my thought though is if I decide to sell it later or if I get a bigger boat I may want it a 60" again.

my questions

1. how do I replace the shaft

2. where do I buy a shaft

oh, by the way. here's a craptastic pic of my boat

 

[68C15]

Re: shaft replacement, minnkota PD65

has anyone ever done this or have instructions?

 

[cyber16]

Re: shaft replacement, minnkota PD65

If you search the net, Fishing forums, you will find most users will remove the head
Then slide wires into a tube/pipe that will fit within the shaft to protect them when you
cut the shaft shorter from the TOP end.
Then shorten the wires to proper length to fit within the head
The removal of the shaft from the motor usually requires heat to be applied and without
the proper tools will likely damage it.
Look at cutting it shorter from the top, you will need to drill a new hole for the screw that holds the head

 

[Silvertip]

Re: shaft replacement, minnkota PD65

The height of the motor is adjustable so why cut the shaft. Loosen the steering colar, slide the shaft where you want it and tighten the colar. The motor should be mounted so it lays along the side of the boat -- not down the middle when stowed so length should not be an issue. Taking 14 inches off a 60 inch shaft leaves you with 46 inches. Most boats in the 15 - 18 inch range take a 54 inch shaft so 46 would seem to be too short. At least mount the motor and try it before you butcher it only to find you cut off too much.

 

[cyber16]

Re: shaft replacement, minnkota PD65

Sometimes when the height is adjusted it simply gets in the way from side-arm casts and some have the directional pointer on the top and it cannot be seen way up.
That is why people cut them
Agreed, prior to cutting it, be sure of your placement and measure TWICE cut once
It is always better not to cut off enough vs too much
Edit:
make sure you account for chop in the water on them windy days

 

[Silvertip]

Re: shaft replacement, minnkota PD65

When measuring did you measure from the top of the bow to the water line and then add a MINIMUM of 12 inches?

 

[cyber16]

Re: shaft replacement, minnkota PD65

I personally have not had the need to shorten a shaft.
I have found/read several forum topics about the procedure.
I completely understand the reasoning/need for this being done. Todays high costs and there are those that upgrade to the latest and greatest, therefore there are some great buys on years prior models, would be a shame to pass on that great deal that completely fits your needs only because the shaft is to long.

As for the added length for water chop, i suppose that really depends on the waters being fished along with the size of the vessel, such as small inland lakes.
There are those with smaller boats that stay clear of rough seas.