View Full Version : Elec. Motor shaft length Princecraft 178 Super Pro DLX SE
I just purchased a 2001 Princecraft 178 Super Pro Deluxe Se that comes packaged with a cheap depth finder and a minn kota trolling motor with a 42 inch shaft. It comes packaged with these items, but I am still concerned that the shaft length won't be adequate. Any insight would be appreciated.
perchjerker
02-28-2002, 12:59 PM
If you go to the Minn Kota website, it gives a formula on how to determine the proper length you need.
By the way, nice boat! I have good things about Princecrafts.
Thankyou perchjerker. I am excited...it's my first boat.
walleyechaser
02-28-2002, 05:35 PM
Nice boat,i have a 2000 princecraft tsp 188,and love it. as far as a bow mount trolling you'll need a 60" shaft,I'd go with motorguide.
Walleyechaser,
Have you heard the 42" shaft isn't adequate? Does it come out of the water in waves? Thanks for your input.
GP NJ
02-28-2002, 06:10 PM
I have a 2000 SP 176 with a Minn Kota Genesis 74AP with a 60" shaft. I am glad I went with 60". I use a Ram mount to support the TM head when I run in rough water.
Thanks for the input GP. I'll have to look into the 60" shaft.
bigfish1965
02-28-2002, 10:16 PM
On my Legend the 42 was a bit short. I fixed it real quick by gaining 20 pounds. Saved on having to buy a new motor.
Cornhusker
02-28-2002, 10:29 PM
I think you will find that when you are in the front of your boat, your weight will keep it in the water. And if you are dock hopping, etc. It will probably be fine. If you chase walleyes with it. Any amount of waves will probably pop it out of the water, however, I dont think you will want to be in the front of your boat then anyway... If you look to replace it, stick with minnkota, not motorguide. Motorguide has just been bought out by Merc along with my company pinpoint, and getting service as of late has been a bugger. Plus there are definitely Minnekota service centers near you. (Altho Pinpoint and motorguide have centers in Minn.) I have a 60 inch shaft pinpoint, that can be run from the back of the boat, and it does me just fine. In my opinion, you can really never have too much length on your trolling motor.
"Winners never quit, quitters never win, and those who never win and never quit are idiots"
Thanks for the input Cornhusker. I will have to make a decision soon, because once I have the boat with the electric motor...that will likely be the motor I have until the boat is gone.