View Full Version : Motorguide Excel
JerryK#530
07-17-2001, 07:20 PM
Looking to the board for some advice. My Minn Kota 824 autopilot is going to the fix-it shop this week. Might be a control board problem at worst which could mean 200+ bucks. The unit is 5 years old so a decision might have to be made. I was looking at the Motorguide Excel line. Does anyone have any experience with this model? This is my third Minn Kota and it seems "planned obsolescence" is in their product description or maybe I just have had rotten luck. Any help would be appreciated.
mark1775
07-18-2001, 12:25 AM
I have the 82lb Excel. Love it. It does depend on how you use your trolling motor. I had an Motor Guide like yours on a smaller boat and liked the long cord which allowed me to use it any where in the boat. Don't have that luxury with the Excel. However, with 82lbs of thrust, I can troll at close to 1 1/5 mph if I need to. It is also Pinpoint ready and what a difference that makes, no interference.
Jim Carroll
07-18-2001, 06:43 AM
I am running the Excel 36v 109 lb'r. Great trolling motor. The outstanding features are complete lack of pedal feedback from motor torque (electro steer vs. cable drive) and very quick steering response. I think the steering capabilities are even better than the cable drives I've had in the past because you don't have to fight the pedal "bounce" in rough water conditions. Its the best trolling motor I have ever used .
I agree with the last two posts.I've a 71 lb thrust on my ts182 & its more than enough power.Had a AP on my old boat.Constantly the foot pedal would stick causing the motor to due a 360.