Trolling motor and FF combo pros/cons

[commedic81]

I need to add a bow mount trolling motor to my Alumacraft. I am looking to see if there are any troubles you have had for MinnKota or Garmin Force. Currently have an older Lowrance Hook 9 and want to replace with a unit that will pair to the TM so that I can map routes for the TM to follow.

I've got 36" from water to bow and maybe a little more because of some potential engineering to get the stowed position above the cabin.

Just stuck with pulling the trigger on MinnKota/Humminbird or Garmin/Garmin combo.

Open to any input

[mr 580]

Thinking you need to calculate the actual shaft length you would need for TM and how you would deploy and stow the TM.  With cabin, bow rail and distance from water you will need a long shaft.  You might be limited on options for TM’s.  I’m guessing 84” or more for a shaft.  On that size boat with cabin a gas kicker is an easier install and less weight once you add in the extra batteries you need.

[commedic81]

Actually already have a gas kicker that would be used. The TM would be the steering wheel. Planning on switching over to a 36v lithium to minimize the battery weight. By looking at the charts, I want at least a 72". The next step I see is 90" which might be too long.