The older trolling motors had the long bracket that clamped on down the shaft towards the head. My Riptide ST doesn't. What are options for some sort of support to take some stress off the head/shaft while driving?
Strapping it to what? In my boat, it doesn't hang over the edge? I've seen pvc pipes bolted to seats going up, but then it's there when the motor is down and in the way.
I assume you are talking about securing the motor when it is in the stowed position -- correct? So why not post a picture of the issue since we can't see your boat. If you take a browse around the hardware section of Lowes or your local hardware store there are lots of brackets that you can attach most anywhere on a boat including the floor or bulkhead that could be used to secure a strap.
I don't have the motor on the boat yet for pictures, but the head is about 5-6 inches from the side and between the front and middle bench seat. It's a 12 ft aluminum boat and I don't have a floor on it so I can screw something there. Hopefully it will be in by mid next week and I'll bump this thread with some pictures. thanks!
I again suggest you take a walk through the hardware section of your local Home Store, or right here on IBoats. There are dozens of "U" shaped brackets that can be pop riveted or bolted to the side of your boat. A velcro strap will then secure the motor. Here is what I'm talking about.