MONTAUK Bow Mount Trolling Motor
Posted: Thu Jan 28, 2016 9:12 pm
I am planning to mount a 55-lbs-thrust [MinnKota] Riptide ST trolling motor on the bow of a classic 1986 Montauk, using the bow step. I am debating inside or outside the bow rail. There are installations of both; they can be done. The disadvantage of outside-the-bow-rail is overhang of the motor head over the gunwale when stowed. The disadvantage of inside-the-bow-rail is clearance of the head under the bow rail at time of stow and deploy. Consider, while stowing, the lever action with the motor weight at end, when you can only raise up the motor three inches, no more, to clear under the rail, pivoting the motor 45 to 55-degrees before being able to slide the shaft in.
I prefer the motor inside the bow rail for [appearance] and docking. To anyone that has this inside-the-bow-rail mount: I would like to know if it really is a pain to do. Hoping the buoyancy in the water will help when lifting the motor from such an awkward levering position.
I prefer the motor inside the bow rail for [appearance] and docking. To anyone that has this inside-the-bow-rail mount: I would like to know if it really is a pain to do. Hoping the buoyancy in the water will help when lifting the motor from such an awkward levering position.