Maybe a dumb question but here it is:

[iggyw1]

My buddy is giving me a bow mounted foot pedal controlled electric trolling motor for my small boat. My bow is kind of high off the water, and the motor shaft is 36" long. I just wondered if I can lengthen the shaft on the free electric motor I am getting? It appears that all I would have to do is make the shaft longer with some type of conduit (either PVC, aluminum or some type of composite material and extend the wiring inside the conduit as it appears there is a motor down below by the prop and the power head at the top of the motor, so all that should be inside the shaft is wires, correct? Anyone on here ever did this to an electric motor or think it can be done? Thanks.

 

[Bayou Dave]

I am sure you thought if this, but have you measured the distance from the bow to the water line?

 

[Silvertip]

Trolling motors have a number of different shaft lengths (generally 36 to about 60 inches). Depending on the Make and Model of this "free" motor, you may be able to get the correct length shaft from the manufacturer. But to answer your question, yes -- the shaft can be replaced with a longer one. I would hesitate to simply add something to the existing shaft unless the joint was pinned or otherwise locked to prevent the two parts of slipping. That joint would also need to be thoroughly sealed to prevent water intrusion.

 

[SeaDooSam]

Or...You could get a bunch of guys to sit in the front

 

[iggyw1]

I am sure you thought if this, but have you measured the distance from the bow to the water line?

The boat is in winter storage currently, but I know 36" would be too short. I would definitely measure it before I extend the shaft if possible.

 

[iggyw1]

Trolling motors have a number of different shaft lengths (generally 36 to about 60 inches). Depending on the Make and Model of this "free" motor, you may be able to get the correct length shaft from the manufacturer. But to answer your question, yes -- the shaft can be replaced with a longer one. I would hesitate to simply add something to the existing shaft unless the joint was pinned or otherwise locked to prevent the two parts of slipping. That joint would also need to be thoroughly sealed to prevent water intrusion.

Thank you. I will check and see if I can get a longer replacement shaft from the manufacturer. I must be able to get one because sometimes shafts bend or break and nee to be replaced, so I think the shafts are available. I thought about it having to be completely water tight.

 

[iggyw1]

Or...You could get a bunch of guys to sit in the front

Very intelligent. Thanks for your input.

 

[Bondo]

(either PVC, aluminum or some type of composite material

Ayuh,.... You Do understand that yer extension needs to be able to withstand the entire forces exerted by the trollin' motor,..??

I doubt Pvc is up to the task,....

 

[esox07]

I agree, replacing it with a solid, longer shaft is the only way to go.

 

[iggyw1]

Ayuh,.... You Do understand that yer extension needs to be able to withstand the entire forces exerted by the trollin' motor,..??

I doubt Pvc is up to the task,....

Yep, I agree now after thinking about it. I can order a longer shaft from the manufacturer if I need it. It is an item that is meant to be replaced if damaged. Thanks!