Re: 12V.....24V??
12 volt or 24 volt ?... I've run both for many years. A lot of things to consider... size, weight, draft and style of boat and how the wind effects it. Where and how you use it... is there water current, how long you will use it and how fast you want to travel. Then there's the weight, space and cost of a two battery 24 volt set up. As with boats and motors there are compromises to be made.<br /><br />I do recommend buying the biggest (power) motor for your needs. A 24 volt system is the best if you are going to use it hard but with the newer and bigger 12 volt motors they are a very good choice. My guess and it's just a guess, is a 12 volt should work just fine for you, as it does for most, as most boaters are not in heavy current. Give it a lot of thought, you want to get it right, these things cost $$$.<br /><br />Since the Minn Kota is mentioned above... In '01 I bought a Minn Kota 55 PowerDrive with AutoPilot (12 volt). It's a very good motor, doesn't take much space and I would surely buy the same motor again for the boat I am using it on (14' aluminum utility), but it does have a draw back for me (which I knew)... again compromises. I fish the Mississippi river with a lot of current and when in obstructed waters (rocks, wood, weeds, etc.) or shallow waters (just enough to float the boat) it is more of a hassle to quickly get it up and over the obstructions under power than with the other style of trolling motor (manual) where you pull on the cord to release and lift the motor with one hand while still powering and steering with the foot pedal, holding the prop surfaced just biting the water.<br /><br />You don't want to avoid these areas because your motor is more difficult to operate in.<br /><br />Two years ago I added the CoPilot to the motor (a hand held remote control). It will override the foot control or can replace it. That is a real nice addition. I also have the quick release mount. In one minute it's off, and the battery, for when I don't want to use it.<br /><br />I do see they are putting these motors on the big bass boats, but for the river, my preference would be the manual, 24 volt, cord pull up, pedal push-pull cable steering motor. I have a good 25 years experience with these boats and motors, but haven't run a 36 volt.<br /><br />With a manual you know the motor direction with a remote you may have to also look.... again compromises.
