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Message Subject: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

AFChief

Posted 7/8/2005 6:34 PM (#153058)
Subject: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

Posts: 550

Location: So. Illinois

ok Muskie-1st board personnel, looking for suggestions and ideas how to outfit my 19' run-about with a bow-mount trolling motor. I have been using the family boat for muskie fishing now for three years and I am tired of not having any boat control. I am building a casting deck for the front. I will be removing the front cushions and put down a carpeted, sealed floor with a seat fixture so I can stand/sit comfortably and fish. I plan on using good quality plywood (thick) and make it so it just fits in the bow. I plan on making it removable so I can still use the boat for those days when the kids want to tube. The question I have is, is it possible to add a bow mount trolling motor? The area in the bow looks small and I don't have a clue on motors or if there are any made with a small installation foot print. I was thinking I could build a platform up front raised above the running lights (by using posts) so that I can enlarge the mounting surface for the motor. I expect to need a large capacity motor (72lbs or higher) with a 54" shaft. I plan on putting the batteries under the seats or on the floor. Looking for feedback if my brain-child is workable or if I should spare the expense and not worry about it. Options to get a different boat are out at this time. Photos below....

Jerry

Edited by AFChief 7/8/2005 6:38 PM

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Bow.JPG (135KB - 545 downloads)
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kevin

Posted 7/8/2005 6:47 PM (#153059 - in reply to #153058)
Subject: RE: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

Posts: 1335

Location: Chicago, Beverly

I think you got the room, especially if you put it on a angle, rather then straight like you got the tape measure...

Rockin' SV

Posted 7/13/2005 8:26 PM (#153441 - in reply to #153058)
Subject: RE: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

Posts: 425

Location: Elkhart, IN

Hey I've got an old Starcraft runabout that I did the exact same thing with. I got the Minn-Kota Power Drive so I could have the longer cord to operate from the back of the boat where there is lots of room. What I did to make it level was use a couple of extra rubber rings that you put under the mounting plate to level it out with the slope of the fiberglass. It works great, and the Power Drive has a shorter mounting plate than alot of the other trolling motors also making it easier. I hope you see this as I'm a few days late, but you can make it work.

Rockin' SV

Posted 7/13/2005 8:40 PM (#153444 - in reply to #153058)
Subject: RE: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

Posts: 425

Location: Elkhart, IN

BTW, I found the dimensions for the quick release mount for the Power Drive trolling motors at Cabela's and it is 9 1/4" x 8 1/16". You can see it here http://cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jhtml... You do have plenty of room for it though.

MuskieMedic

Posted 7/14/2005 8:23 AM (#153475 - in reply to #153058)
Subject: RE: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

Posts: 2091

Location: Stevens Point, WI

It looks like a powerdrive might fit on the diagonal.

AFChief

Posted 7/14/2005 3:01 PM (#153543 - in reply to #153058)
Subject: RE: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

Posts: 550

Location: So. Illinois

Thanks to all for your recommendations. I now have some ideas on what mottor to buy...

Jerry

mikie

Posted 7/15/2005 9:47 AM (#153607 - in reply to #153058)
Subject: RE: Adding Bow-mount trolling motor to run-about

Location: Athens, Ohio

another option would be a stern mounted unit. m

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