Trolling motor on bow rider

[wlharpold]

I am in the process of trying to set up my 1994 sea ray 180 to be more of a fishing boat then a ski boat. I have my livewell and fishing decks taken care of but im having a heck of a time trying to find a mounting bracket for a trolling motor. I am thinking of going with a motorguide wireless. any ideas on how I can get it to set level and how to avoid stress cracks since it will have to have quite a bit of thrust? Thanks for the help

 

[wileecoyote985]

Re: Trolling motor on bow rider

You may want to look into one of the quick release mounting brackets available for the specific motor you decide on. You can then mount the bracket, shimming as necessary with large rubber washers that are available at most hardware stores.

If you mount to an area where you have access underneath, you can add large washers or a plate to spread out the stress. If not, you may want to check into something like the rubber isolator mounting "bolts" Kota Minn Kota has available.

Gary

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Trolling motor on bow rider

Think twice about the wireless. I have not seen one yet that I'd call super reliable -- especially MotorGuide. These things are slow to respond not to mention expensive to buy and rediculously expensive to repair when the electronics goes south. The corded units from MinnKota (Power Drive) and MotorGuide provide the same functionality and flexibility with much better reliability. As for mounting, buy the quick release plate, set it on the boat and level it using hardwood shims cut to the shape of your boat. Then drill, stain, and varnish them. They look much nicer than a stack of rubber washers. Takes some time to make the shims but you'll be happy with the outcome.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Trolling motor on bow rider

You don't want the Motor Guide wireless. or any Motor guide. MinnKota is much better and you can get it with the co-pilot if you want wireless. I haven't heard anything bad about the co-pilot except a little slow in responding. People I know that have them really like it.