bow mount, foot control, suggestions

[stevensinks]

I am wanting to get a bow mount motor for my 18 ft Alum starcraft and I really dont want to spend much over $500. I keep reading and looking and I still dont know what to get. I sure could use some suggestions. Thanks

[twobearlake]

Do you want electronic steering or cable-drive?

[went522]

Both the Minn kota power drive and maxxum(cable steer) are good motors.

You'll want 24V and a long shaft, IMO 60" is a good length. As far as thrust, 70 lbs.+ for a boat that size.

Tons of power drives out there, the majority of boats I see and have been in have them, they're solid. The auto pilot(AP) is a great feature, as is the universal sonar(US). There is something to be said for the maxxum motors, the instant steer of the cable drive is a plus and the fact they don't have all the other electronic components...less to break down!! Both models have their advantages.

Your $500 budget won't buy a "new" AP/US or maxxum with a 60" shaft and 70+lbs. of thrust. But...I see many newer used motors for sale in that price range and also come across new in box motors that were won in tournaments or raffles. Keep an eye out in the classifieds here and on other fishing forums as well as craigslist, ebay, etc...On a $500 budget you should be able to find a nice motor!!

BIRDDOG

[rebs]

I have a 19ft starcraft and had a 12 volt 54 lb thrust for a few years and it worked ok and you could use that as long as you are not in strong current. However I have switches to 70 lb 24 volt and am much happier, its great even in the current of the Niagar River. I would also recommend atleast a 54" shaft and 60 would be preferred. I also have auto pilot and universal sonar which is great to have. It maybe a good idea to wait til you save alittle more money and buy one that you will be happy with for years instead of settling for one more that you will out grow very quickly.

[bob1]

There is a like new PD 70 with 54" shaft in the "swap section" on WC now.

Bob

[stevensinks]

I dont know any thing about Power Drives, how are they?

[drbrand]

You can check Cabelas stores or Basspro catalog return in Springfield, Mo. for refurbs or returns. I know Basspro in Springfield usually has piles of reconditioned motors, mostly motorguide. Cabelas clears out a lot of MinnKota's reconditioned units. I bought a Minnkota 60" 70lb 24v AP US a couple of years back from Cabelas for under $500.

[Stripehunter]

A powerdrive is nice if you ever actually use it for trolling. You can control it from the back of the boat. I wouldn't be without it, nor the AP.