Help choosing a TM

[Plainsman]

I have a 17 ft Glastron run-about and would like to get a bow mount trolling motor. I am looking at the MinnKota 50PDV2 48" shaft 12 volt. My question is the mounting of it. The boat has rails on both sides, but there is 22" right in the center. Would this be a good location to mount the trolling motor and is 22" enough room to do so? I have room under the front seat for the battery, but it would be on one side, do I need to offset that wieght on the other side?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Help choosing a TM

The short answer is yes -- you should be able to utilize the 22-inch space. There are a couple of considerations however. 1) Do not mount the motor so it points straight forward and back as the motor, when stowed, would intrude on the space at the center of the boat. Angle the mounting to when stowed, the shaft and head of the motor is inside and parallel with the rail. 2) Make sure a 48-inch shaft is long enough. The motor should be at least one foot below the surface of the water. I think a 54-inch shaft is a better choice. But the best way to tell is to measure from the bow to water level and add one foot. 3) The battery should not need any offsetting weight. Use the largest capacity deep cycle battery you have room for. 4) To avoid theft, use a quick release plate if your boat must be stored outside when not used.

 

[Plainsman]

Re: Help choosing a TM

Thanks for the inforomation ST! I will implement those suggestions.