Hey, folks.

I need your input on a new trolling motor.

My Lund has an 82 lbs thrust, electric steer, 24 volt Motorguide trolling motor.  Hate it! It's too weak for the boat and too slow to react when you move the pedal.

So, I think I want to get a Minn Kota Maxxum 101 lbs thrust (M101) , 36 volt. I need the 62" shaft because my bow is so high.

Here is what I would like your input on.
1) Good motor? I know some guys have the Maxxum motors. Not really interested in the Terrova, from what I have heard.
2) Do I need the Maxxum Pro? Looks like the main difference is the lift-assist.
3) Where should I go to get the best price? I have someone who can install it, so I just need the motor and mount. Does it all come together?
4) Any additional connectors or parts needed in addition to what comes in the box? (Other than what I needt o convert to 36 volts/ add a battery.)

Thanks.

Stu


Links:


http://www.minnkotamotors.com/products/motors/detail.asp?pg=fbm_maxxum

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/pod/horizontal-pod.jsp;jsessionid=VO...

Stu, I recently had some dealing with John Jones at Jonestrolling motors and would recommend him very very highly. He spoke to me on a couple of occasions on the phone, was extremely helpful and had the parts I needed at reasonable prices. He does now and then get some Factory Reconditioned Minn-kota motors and they are well priced. I agree with Smitty, the "lift-assist" with the big 101lb motor will be a blessing, specially with the extra long shaft.

Faz

i had a motorguide on mine when i bought it then upgraded to a minkota maxxum and the thing is awesome.  mine doesnt have any fancy lift assist   but its quiet and fast.  

comes with the mount

might need a new 36v plug for your boat dont know if they are different than a 24v

a new breaker i would think for the batterys

as for price...i got mine off ebay brand new with a warranty and it was quite a bit less than retail.  bass boat central classifieds maybe (sometimes guys win new trolling motors )

oh and i would get lift assist with a 62" shaft and 101lbs trust those things are heavy


troy

STU, since I was once a V-Hull Owner, I suggest you get the biggest (Most powerful)trolling motor you can find.  Didn't have a Lund, but I spent way too much time on the trolling motor, alot doing with the trolling motor power, but alot due to the v hull.  I finally went up to a Minn Kota and the most powerful they had in 1998 and it helped a lot.  If you can go 36v, by all means go there and get some really good batteries and a recharging system that will handle the loads.

Chuck P

Heed the warnings and don't get the universal sonar.  There is way to much potential for problems. 
A 3-4 week wait seems way too long.   Did you try the Trolling Mtr Dr, Jones or Fosters?  They usually have all models in stock and same day shipping.  The Dr. is only in CA near Modesto.

Smitty

I'll stay away from the universal.

Haven't checked with the Dr., but I will.

Thanks!
Stu

Yes, it should be fine.  I was fishing with a buddy just last week who had an 18' Aluminum Triton with an 80lb thrust Minnkota.  Worked very well.  The 101 would be overkill.  The aluminum boat I had a 45lb thrust, which was a bit under-powered for the boat, but not by much.

As for the universal, don't use it.  Just attach the hocky puck-style transducer to the bottom of the motor as always - even if it has the universal sonar.

My 17 footer (Lund) has the 70 lb - and if you want to check it out - just call me and come get it and try it out.  Your 20 footer and 80 lbs ought to be proportionally comparable.  So far I'm pleased with my choice.  I think you will be too.