Trolling power

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jjdoro2

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 31, 2003
Messages
42
I will be adding a trolling motor to a 22' aluminum boat with an aft deadrise of 16 degrees and a forward vee of 35 degrees (hull weight is about 1850#). Will an 8 hp honda 4 stroke be enough to troll that and if so should I go with the standard 8 hp, 20" shaft or the "power thrust" model that has a 25" shaft and I think an extra prop blade for more bite? FYI, on my previous 17 ft boat I was always struggling to get it to troll in a straight line so I want to make sure I get the right trolling motor this time. Thanks
 
S

Solittle

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 28, 2002
Messages
7,518
Re: Trolling power

An 8 hp should be fine for your boat but don't count on it going in a straight line. That is not a function of power as much as it is on hull design and wind.<br /><br />The shaft length should get the cavitation plate even with the bottom wether it be the 20" or 25". I would go with the 25" if you have a choice.
 
D

dakotashooter2

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 10, 2003
Messages
125
Re: Trolling power

I would go with the power thrust model if the price isn't that much different. Think of it this way. Speed is not an issue. You are pushing a big boat with a small motor. That takes power, buy not necessarily horsepower. I think you will get a bigger bit/less slipage/more efficiency with the bigger prop on the power thrust models.<br />I run a standard 9.5 on my 16' and can see it is not as efficient as I would like.
 
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snohomishbaddawg

Seaman
Joined
Sep 23, 2002
Messages
73
Re: Trolling power

I have an 8hp honda on my 17ft Arima SeaRanger, the hull weight is almost the same and I have a pretty wide beam (8ft). The honda pushes the boat great! <br />As for what length shaft, look where you wish to mount the motor and determine if you need a long, extra long or short shaft to reach the water and keep the cavitation plate below water. Then get the longest shaft that still allows you to tilt the motor out of the water. Nothing worse than a kicker that is constantly coming out of the water when your on top of the swell, or one that drags in the water when you have it tipped up.<br />here is a the url for pics of the arima if you are not familiar with the boat arima boats
 
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