Installing a trolling motor

[mozy]

I bought a new trolling motor this winter and I'm just getting around to trying to install it. I've run into a bit of a problem. I see most newer boats have an opening under the front bow where you can stow your foot pedal, making it easy to bolt the motor, but mine doesn't have this opening. How am I supposed to secure the trolling motor if I can't get a washer and nut underneath the platform? Can i just screw down into the aluminum?

Thanks in advance!

[Supercrew]

Post a pic........

[Phred52]

You could use expanding inserts. Phred52

[traveler]

MinnKota sells inserts specifically for this. You have to drill some pretty substantial holes, but they do the job.

[solbes]

I wonder if large beefy toggle bolts would work, stainless steel of course.

[blakjack23]

MinnKota sells inserts specifically for this. You have to drill some pretty substantial holes, but they do the job.

+1

[TSchultz]

Let's see a pic of the front end. In my opinion your asking for trouble with anything other than bolts washers and nylock nuts. Watching your new trolling motor bounce off the front of your boat would not be a fun experience. Also keep in mind that the front of your boat takes the most pounding abuse out of any other part of your boat. You want that thing SECURE. I would cut a hole in the front panel in order to get bolts in there and cover it with a nice aluminum plate painted or anodized black.

[mozy]

I guess I was thinking that it was aluminum up there, but it turned out it was plywood. So I ended up getting a couple toggle bolts to work and used regular wood screws for the rest. It feels very sturdy and seemed fine going down the road, so hopefully it stays on there. Thanks for the help!