J33wolf Posted July 25, 2014 Posted July 25, 2014 I am interested in getting a trolling motor to use on the rented john boats at the small local lakes. I think I have decided on a Minn Kota Endura C2 55lb thrust. Found a few deals on some used ones. I've never owned one before. Can someone recommend any tips and I definitely need to know what size/type of battery to get. Any "watch outs" or "be aware ofs" that I need to know of being a first time user. Have been researching videos on you tube as well. Thanks in advance for the info. Quote
Super User Jig Man Posted July 25, 2014 Super User Posted July 25, 2014 Your battery will give you a longer time on the water if you get one with lots of reserve capacity. The more rc you have the heavier it will be as the series size will change from 24 to 27-29-31. You may be able to get by with a 24 series if you don't fish for very long at a time. If I were doing it I'd look for a 27 series with 180 or more reserve amps (rc). If you are going to be lugging it around and carrying it in your vehicle, a sealed one will be safer. If you don't mind spending the bucks and want a lighter one then the Optimas are quite a bit lighter but cost more than 2X as much as a lead acid. What ever you choose just be sure that you are getting a marine battery designed for a trolling motor and not a cranking battery designed to start engines. Quote
J33wolf Posted July 25, 2014 Author Posted July 25, 2014 Jig Man...thanks for the info. This may be a dumb question, but do most batteries say how much reserve capacity they have? Quote
Super User Scott F Posted July 26, 2014 Super User Posted July 26, 2014 Unless you are really strapped for cash, I would not buy a used trolling motor. Quote
Super User slonezp Posted July 26, 2014 Super User Posted July 26, 2014 Jig Man...thanks for the info. This may be a dumb question, but do most batteries say how much reserve capacity they have? They should say it on the label and/or online specs. DNR is going to require you have a battery box as well. They're only a couple bucks. Everstart and Interstate will most likely have the best pricing. Quote
J33wolf Posted July 26, 2014 Author Posted July 26, 2014 ScottF....if I was to buy used, what things would you be looking out for? Quote
Super User Jig Man Posted July 26, 2014 Super User Posted July 26, 2014 If your battery doesn't have the reserve capacity plainly printed on it DON'T BUY IT. Get one that does. If you buy a used one just be sure that it works before you fork over the cash. It doesn't hurt to run one in the air so hook it up and run it through its speeds. Quote
Super User Scott F Posted July 26, 2014 Super User Posted July 26, 2014 I've had trolling motors lose power over time. If the motor armatures get worn or dirty, or the motor brushes get worn, the performance will suffer. You can't look at a motor or even run it and tell unless you have a new motor to compare it to. You can tell if the prop shaft is bent, or if there is ANY corrosion on any part of the motor housing. Because it is so difficult to see any problems, you are just better off getting a new one with a full warranty. Quote
J33wolf Posted July 26, 2014 Author Posted July 26, 2014 Thanks for all the tips guys. I appreciate it. Feel free to keep them coming if you think of anything else. Quote
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