Help Installing Trolling Motor, First Time

[fishermantony]

I've got an older Motor Guide 767V Brute trolling motor on my R93 Ranger that I have decided I am going to replace because of how much it will cost to get fixed. I've having a dilemma on choosing a motor, I want quality, but for the most reasonable price possible. Then once I have the motor I'm kind of nervous about putting it on, I've never done it and don't want to make any mistakes. First thing that concerns me is according to motorguide, the mount I currently have is 20 inches and the smallest mount on any new motorguide is 20.8, which means I may have to drill holes in the mount and void the warranty.

Any words of wisdom or advice any of you can give me for purchase and or installation are really appreciated.

Thanks

[Wayne P.]

How did you determine the difference in the mounting hole locations?

[NBR]

I replaced a 1980 or 1981 42# Motorguide with a new 68# Minnkota in about 1995 and used the same mounting holes. I would think a dealer that specializes in trolling motors or bass boats would be able to give you a heads up on any issues. The only problem I had was holding the new motor still while I got the first bolt snug. I should have had some help for about 15 minutes.

[Glenn]

These might help:

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/choosing-a-trolling-motor.html

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/trolling-motor-electrical-issues.html

[fishermantony]

How did you determine the difference in the mounting hole locations?

From Motor Guide over the phone. They told me the mount was 20", but I'm not getting 20" by my measurements, more like 20.8 or 20.9. If what I'm getting is right, I should be able to get a motor that fits exactly.

[fishermantony]

Thanks for the replies guys, thanks for the links Glenn.