Did you know O.G. Schmidt invented the electric trolling motor in 1934? Chances are, you don’t think much about the history of this motor. If you are like most, you probably focus on how easy this particular motor makes it to get from point A to point B in your boat.
There are several benefits offered by the trolling motor. For example, it allows you to maneuver your boat at a slower speed than trolling speed with the outboard motor and provides you with a higher amount of control than with oars or paddles.
These motors are also ideal for moving your boat across a lake where a “no-wake” rule is in effect or in areas that have prohibited gasoline-powered outboard motors. You can find trolling motors for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Now that you know what it offers, it is time to learn more about how to mount a trolling motor on your boat. Keep reading for some helpful tips and guidelines to do this successfully.
Gather the Needed Tools
Before diving into the specifics of how to mount a trolling motor or what to do with the Minn Kota trolling motor plug, you need to get the necessary tools together.
You will need a wrench kit, a Phillips screwdriver, and a drill and bits.
Mounting the Trolling Motor
Now is the time to figure out what side of the boat you will put the motor on. You can install it anywhere, so don’t worry about where it will go. The question you need to consider is how and where do you plan to fish?
There’s a smart and easy way to solve this. Just pay attention to where you are controlling your boat.
Plate Panel Removal and Motor Assembly
The next step is to remove the plate panels. Make sure you are doing this correctly. To do this, start by removing the securing screws.
Most motors will clearly show the mounting holes.
After this, before you determine where on the boat you will install the motor, you must assemble the motor itself. Each motor and each motor company should have a website where you can find specific instructions that show you the assembly process. You must follow these guidelines carefully, so the motor operates appropriately and efficiently.
After you have put the motor together, the second step is to attach the shaft. Once in place, you can install the head assembly to the mount.
Positioning the Trolling Motor
You should position the motor shaft as close to the middle of the boat as possible. One thing to pay attention to is that the shaft and propeller may become off-center. This should be avoided, if possible.
Also, to ensure safety, make sure you are using a position that allows for proper flushing. Usually, this is necessary for the boat and motor to work correctly and efficiently.
Check the Motor Head Location
When the motor is in the proper stowed position, be sure the location you have selected is sufficient. Be sure to secure the parts and components properly.
If there is no overhang on the side of your boat, be sure to watch out for docks. If you aren’t careful, you may end up hitting it, and all the time you spent to install the motorhead properly will be for nothing.
For situations where there is no overhang, you can use a straight edge. With this method, your motor is positioned in a way where the actual motorhead is located inside your boat.
Once you have determined the right position for your mount, you need to drill two holes in your boat’s bow. Sometimes, two people are required for this job. Be smart and don’t try to do it on your own if you don’t have much experience.
Once the holes are drilled, secure your mount with the proper attachments. Several other holes may be needed, as well, to secure the motor properly. This will depend on the type and brand you have.
To ensure the highest level of success, make sure you have access to the underside of your bow to fasten the nuts properly. This will ensure the entire mechanism is fully secure.
If you don’t have this option, consider no-access bolting nuts. This allows you to secure the motor properly, even if you don’t have access to the underside of your boat.
Check Everything
Before venturing out on the water to try out your new trolling motor, you need to recheck the installation. Be sure all the fasteners are tight and that everything is secure.
It’s best to check and double-check this to minimize issues and prevent damage to your boat or the motor. Also, if something is loose, the motor may fall off or suffer serious damage.
How to Mount a Trolling Motor: Now You Know
When you are ready to mount a trolling motor on your boat, be sure to gather your tools and get prepared to handle the process. While there are some nuances with each motor dependent on brand and type you have, the instructions above should give you a general idea of what to do and how to do it.
When it comes to how to mount a trolling motor, the information here should answer all your basic questions. To learn more about boating and other activities, be sure to check out some of our other blogs. We update the information regularly, so you can find a lot of interesting things to read.
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