Bow Mount Installation?

[Turk]

I am installing a new MinnKota trolling motor on the bow of my boat.

Do I want the shaft/motor as close to the front/middle of the boat when it is deployed?

I also have the Quick Release Bracket, which leads to my second question: How far should the motor hang over the edge of the boat?
I've seen the shaft 6" from the edge of the boat and others just a few inches.

Thanks!

[rock2me]

Yes, the idea is to get it as close to center as possible. As far as overhang, set your motor in the bracket, on your bow. Fully deploy the motor into the fully down postion. Then you will see how large the overhang is. Next stow the trolling motor into its retracted position. Take note on where the "head" of the trolling motor is aligned. You do not want it hang over the edge of the boat too far and you don't want it inside the boat too much. It will be a compromise. Try to get the shaft to line up to the gunnel as much as possible without it overhanging.

I did this several times while marking the spots with a pencil or dry erase marker before any drilling. You'll figure it out. It may help to have a fishing buddy come over and give it the once-over before you drill.


Good Luck