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I have a 1991 pantera d/c and the trolling motor is about to die. I am looking at replacing it and had a few questions.1. What lbs thrust should I get the motor that was on it in a little wind barely moves the boat and it is a 55lb.2. Motorguide or Minnkota3. How do you feel about the wireless trolling motors?4. On a separate note I need to replace my livewell timers also what do you recommend?Thanks in advance,Bill
24 volt 82lbs thrust Motor Guide Tour Edition is way sufficient for that boat. Or the equivalent sized Minnkotta.BrianBrianHAWG Hunter2013 BassCat Eyra2013 Mercury 250 Pro XS Gen2 L/U
Here are a few things that I have found over the years. Ive had both and with the increased response and strength of the electric steering units I would be swayed to go that way if I needed to replace my fortrex 101.If you like to “park ” on a spot in the middle of the lake theinterlinked electric steering trolling motors are amazing. If you troll the electric steering units that are guided by your navigation systems are a beautiful thing.If your a slop angler then the cable steering system shines.As for size its better to get one thats so large you only really pound it once or twice a year. That way your still fully mobile after a long tough day. Nothing is worse than being pushed off a great spot because you saved a few dollars.I hope this helps.Practice Angling CPRCatchPictureRelease2010 PIV 200SHO
Trolling motors have come a long ways since 1991 and that 55 pound piece. The down low on a troller for a used boat is simple. In Motorguide stay with 24 volts and for price efficiency go to a TR 75 Tour Edition. This will get you the 20.8 mount and run fine. The only difference in a TR82 and aTR75 is the decal and a mount (21 Gator) which adds weight and we like the 20.8 fine. You can add spring back systems to the 20.8 mount also. For MinnKota the MaxxPro in 80 will handle you fine and they make a MaxxPro in 70 series that is extremely close in power to the 80 model. If you like the FourTrex systems they are fine, though costly on a used boat over 20 years old and anything will be a major improvement over what you have now. Hope this helps! BCB
Both brands make good motors, but Ive found the MK is better in the grass and the MG is better out of the grass. So if you fish mainly grass go with one of the MinnKotas mentioned by BCB. If you mostly fish open water go w/ one of the Motor Guides recommended by BCB.
On the 19 boat, a MinnKota Max70 (the MaxPro is no longer made in any size) or the Motorguide 75 Tour will work fine. You will be staying with the 24V motor. If youre going to keep the boat for a few $$s more you can go to the Max80 or the Tour 82. Not sure about the “only difference in a TR82 and TR75 is the decal and a mount” statement above. There is a difference in the mount and the lower units use the same digital electronics, share the same center section and housing, however the armatures have different part numbers – but at any rate there isnt going to be enough difference in a 75 and an 82 to sway your decision. From the 70 to an 80 in a MinnKota is a different story. The 70 is a smaller lower unit than the 80 and you can tell a difference in the higher speeds. Do yourself a favor and get the variable speed, regardless of which one you choose as the variable speed is easier on batteries. The electric steers have their place and niche, but you need to understand where that niche is and if it fits you, then take a look at them. If I can help you select and get any of the trolling motors you want shipped to you, let me know.John870 773 3474Jones Trolling Motor Services870 773 3474Motorguide/MinnKota/PowerPole/Lowrance/Humminbird
Thanks for all the input. I will be making a decision in the next couple of weeks so my boat can go in to the shop get the new trolling motor, some led lighting, and a new lower unit. With a motor rebuild earlier this spring its going to be like a brand new boat.
24 volt 82lbs thrust Motor Guide Tour Edition on my Sabre FTD. More than enough thrust with the Safari (2 blade) or the Machete III prop. Solid build and lower profile up front. I prefer a SS shaft and metal pedal. But, the MKs are excellent motors too.
If you are inclined to shop around, many of the guys in TX have had a very good experience with “shut up and fish”. You can google them and they will send you prices via email.Good Luck!Tom
Call Mr. Jones. Jones Trolling Motor. Hell make you a deal. And he services what he sells. Been a lot of help to folks both on here and on BBC.
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