52" trolling motor shaft too long for a bass boat?

[Chode2235]

Guys,

My dad just picked up a mid-90s Champion 221 that didnt come with a trolling motor. I have been put in charge of trying to find him one for the weekend. Looking for 36 volts to pull 22 ft of bass boat.

I have seen a couple that would on various classifieds, but they all have the 52" shaft length. The price is right, but will the shaft be too long. Champion recommends 42".

If it is too deep can I adjust the trolling motor (maxxum) to run a bit shallower?

Thanks.

[MikeEiden]

Yes it's adjustable. There's a collar/stop on the shaft that you adjust for height. Even though they say 42" I would recommend going longer with the 52". Once you get into waves the extra shaft length is nice. I've never been in that style of boat but there are many times I wish I had longer than 52" on my rig.

Good luck with the new boat.

[Skeeter21i]

52" will work but isn't ideal on that boat. A 42" or 45" is alot easier to work with on a bass boat and you will be happier in the long run.

[Chode2235]

What do you mean by not ideal? Will it not mount on the boat correctly? What will the problems be?

[heat checker]

If it's too long, take the head off and shorten the shaft.

[kg2]

If it's too long, take the head off and shorten the shaft.

This is incorrect information if the motor is a foot-control maxxum. To do the job right you would need a shorter composite tube, hinge tube, and complete bowmount. Also, if the motor has Universal Sonar, then that brings up more problems.

[Chode2235]

Can you do that with a pipe cutter or hack saw? Any more info on that approach?

[Skeeter21i]

Not ideal in mainly the convenience factor. 52" is a long shaft for a bass boat and you more than likely will be spending time adjusting the depth will fishing. If you are in shallow you will have it pulled up and then the head is sticking up and in your way. Fine alot of the times but does get in the way if you are trying to skip under docks and things like that. You don't want to cut it with pipe cutter or hack saw. kg2 is correct in needing shorter tube, etc.. As far as mounting goes, it should fit. I believe the Minn Kota brackets have same mounting hole pattern but the bracket for the longer motors is a longer bracket than the one for their 45" shaft.

[Chode2235]

Thanks guys. I picked up the motor, and got a pretty good deal on it. I figure for half the price of new we can adjust it a bit. The deck on this boat is huge, so I am not too worried about having to cast around the motor.

Thanks for your input. See you on the water.