What size electric troller?

imported_miked

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Apr 24, 2003
Messages
94
Hi guys, I have just received a brand new inflatable. It is 8'x 4'6" Sevylor HF250, rated at 3 person, 600#. It is rated for a 2hp motor. I want to use an electric motor. What size should I look for? Thanx, Mike
 

Drowned Rat

Captain
Joined
Jan 20, 2004
Messages
3,070
Re: What size electric troller?

I would go with the minn kota endura 30lbs. motor. Anything bigger will not give you any more speed and will just drain your battery faster. Those fish hunter boats will only go about 3 to 4 mph tops regardless of how much power you put on the back. Better to stick with a small troller to extend battery life and range. Have fun.
 

imported_miked

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Apr 24, 2003
Messages
94
Re: What size electric troller?

What do think the minimum thrust should be? I've noticed several 8# motors for sale. I'm thinking that: lower thrust rating = motor runs at capacity more often = quicker battery drain; and the opposite for a larger motor (30# max). Thanx, Mike
 

Drowned Rat

Captain
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Jan 20, 2004
Messages
3,070
Re: What size electric troller?

mike d. For your application, I think I would go with the smallest motor you can get your hands on that will get your boat up to it's max hull speed which is 3 to 4 mph. The 30# motor is a good choice if you're looking at new motors. This motor is plenty strong enough for your boat and will give you some reserve if a wind comes up. An 8# motor should also do very nicely, but you may have a hard time on a windy day. If you are planning on using your boat on flat calm lakes only, then the 8# should do just fine. If you ever plan on boating where you will encounter currents, like a river, I would go with the 30# at a minimum. Understand that the bigger motor will give you very little, if any, additional speed. Both should push your boat about 3 to 4 mph. The smaller motor will run much longer on a charge than the 30# will. Non pulse modulated motors, like these, are most efficient when running wide open. Hope this helps. :)
 

imported_miked

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Apr 24, 2003
Messages
94
Re: What size electric troller?

Thanx D.R., I think I'm going to buy a new Minn Kota Endura 30#. And I think I'll buy it right here at Iboats! $10 more than Cabela's, but I know that Iboats forums have saved me thousands! My turn to give a little back! Thanx for all your help, Mike
 
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