Sealing the space between trolling motor head and shaft (electric trolling motor)

[hiboats]

Can I seal (with aquarium sealant/silicon/waterproof tape) the space between the trolling motor head and the shaft? Or is this space necessary for hot air to escape from the propeller motor? The shaft is hollow and if water goes up to the top of the shaft, it will go down the inside of the shaft and enter the propeller engine. This has happened to me when using in conditions of high waves.​

Secondly, can I cover the trolling motor head completely? Or does it also need to air out? I don't not really need to do this but if I can, I'd rather take this extra safety precaution.​

My 12V electric trolling motor (Motorguide VariMAX V45SW Kayak) has a short shaft and it's on a kayak. Therefore, big waves splashes against the motor shaft towards the bottom of the motor head all the time. If the wave is big enough and splashes up the shaft, it goes down the inside of the shaft into the propeller engine. I could go with another motor, but I like the motor and like to make it work with what I have. Thanks in advance.​

 

[crashyoung]

You want to keep the motor dry, so sealing it sounds good, BUT...
You don't want the air pressure building up when the motor gets hot.
If the air excapes the motor housing, it will be through the motor shaft seal.
when it cools, it will draw water into the motor housing the same way.
If the pressure is high enough, it can pop the seal out of place too!

Can you put a plastic bag over the head unit and still operate the motor?
The bag would keep out the water, yet allow for expansion of air.