Trolling motor install questions.

[jeepguyjames]

Bought a Minn-Kota maxxum 24v / 70lb / var speed for my bass boat. I've replaced trolling motors in the past on my other boats but my current boat is the first fiberglass and first bass boat I've ever owned. I've always owned deep v tin boats in the past and have had anything from I pilots, hand tiller steer, to cable steer ft control. My question is this.............any one have any tips/tricks on the install , Also any products ( ie isolator bolts / minn kota quick nuts / mounts etc ) that would make the install easier/better. I'm taking a 24v trolling motor off of it so the wiring and batteries are all ready there, just wanting to be sure I don't make a silly mistake working with fiberglass. It's a 1995 stratos 278 DC if that makes any difference. Thanks for any input.

JGJ

[M R Dux]

I just use stainless bolts that are about 1 inch longer than needed to clear all the layers of deck. I then double up LARGE fender washers on the underside of the bolt and double nut all the bolts with the last nut being a nylon insert lock nut.

You should have a front access panel that will allow you to lay on the front deck and reach any of the areas the bolts will need to be. Test fit your motor to several different areas and make sure you have access to the underside of each before doing any drilling.

[clfarms1]

what kind of motor is on there now?

["G"]

I just use stainless bolts that are about 1 inch longer than needed to clear all the layers of deck. I then double up LARGE fender washers on the underside of the bolt and double nut all the bolts with the last nut being a nylon insert lock nut.

You should have a front access panel that will allow you to lay on the front deck and reach any of the areas the bolts will need to be. Test fit your motor to several different areas and make sure you have access to the underside of each before doing any drilling.

[jeepguyjames]

Perfect , thank you

I just use stainless bolts that are about 1 inch longer than needed to clear all the layers of deck. I then double up LARGE fender washers on the underside of the bolt and double nut all the bolts with the last nut being a nylon insert lock nut.

You should have a front access panel that will allow you to lay on the front deck and reach any of the areas the bolts will need to be. Test fit your motor to several different areas and make sure you have access to the underside of each before doing any drilling.

[jeepguyjames]

what kind of motor is on there now?

A older motor guide ...... Not real sure of the model honestly...... But it's very "klunky" and started struggling this fall..... It was on the short list of things to do when I bought the boat..... Was glad to get a season out of it so I could save some cabbage for a new one

[dirtrider389]

I put fender washers on the inside of the hull, and they also make rubber isolators to reduce shock on the fiberglass

[jimp]

You could also use a cheapo cutting board from wally world as the backer support underneath the deck to add a bit of support if needed, and suggest you use nylock nuts so things don't work loose over time.

[skeetbum]

All good info. I used stainless hardware with nylon lock nuts, rubber washers between the TM and the hull, and plan on retightening these as use will create just the slightest movement. A little turns into a lot left unattended. You might put down some traction pad to protect the hull before the TM instead of washers, just another option.