What to Look for When Purchasing a Motor

[mike2587]

Hello,

I'm purchasing a 68lb thrust 24v Minn Kota trolling motor for my pontoon boat. I really want it as a backup to my 2 stroke Chrysler that can be finnicky from time to time. I'd like to have piece of mind knowing that if something happened out on the lake that I could still make it back to shore at least...

What should I look for when picking up the motor? They are including the batteries as well and say it's in excellent condition. But I still want to make sure I'm not getting taken for a ride since it would be a cash sale. Is it unreasonable to ask to run the motor a bit? The problem is that I will be meeting this individual half way from his place to my place, so an area to fully run it might be hard to setup. Otherwise what other thoughts would one recommend? Things to look for, things to ask?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[MinUph]

Re: What to Look for When Purchasing a Motor

I'd think running it would be the only way to test it. Can't you run an electric out of the water?

 

[richard.prince]

Re: What to Look for When Purchasing a Motor

Yes you can run it but I would think a 68lb thrust may be hard to hold on to if it is turned on not mounted to anything

 

[MinUph]

Re: What to Look for When Purchasing a Motor

I thought it sounded like a big one. I'm not very privy on electrics.

 

[mike2587]

Re: What to Look for When Purchasing a Motor

I ended up picking up a Minn Kota 68lbs 24v, just to limp me back to shore if I have a problem with my 2 stroke. He quickly showed it mounted to a few boards off his truck. The 2 stroke fired up the other day from cold after about 3 tries, but that could change when it goes in the lake...