Trolling motor thrust

[hawghunter]

Could anyone help determine what does a three horse minn-kota trolling motor puts out for thrust

I want to get a new one and make sure it more than what I got.

Thanks in advance

[Guest]

Well, replacing an old 3hp with a newer 3hp will give you more thrust. My question is why you would need such a powerful trolling motor for a 17ft boat?
You will pay less and have adequate power with even a 74lb motor. Heck, a 55lb motor would probaly be ok.

Also, to my knowlege, they do not make the 3hp anymore. Largest is either a 101lb thrust in the Vector, and Maxxum series or a 2hp in the e-drive series.

[hawghunter]

I'm thinking it’s actually under sized.
Most often it wont keep up in the whities.

Could be that its just that tired.

You’re thinking 74lb?

My brother has a 36lb he is trying to pawn of on me and I’m pretty sure it’s undersized for my boat.

[Guest]

My guess is that the older motor is wearing out. A 3hp motor should zip a 17ft boat along FAST.
You'll only be able to go up to a 55 if you want to stay 12 volts. In 24 volt, you can go to either a 65, 74 or a 101.

[hawghunter]

That’s as close to live chat as I’ve ever done

Really appreciate it!

[ChuckN]

A 3hp Minn Kota is huge. I think you need new deep cycle batteries for a monster motor like that!!

I had a 50lb bow mount and a 36lb transom Minn Kotas on my heavy 17' and they worked just fine for my needs. The key was good quality batteries to keep max power out of them.

[hawghunter]

Clitherall, MN? That’s my old stomping grounds. Good lake!! I stay at Bonnie Beach resort about 5 times a season since I moved from Wahpeton

Good point about the batteries. I know I could use a new one. Any recommendations?

[ChuckN]

Yep, I don't live too far from Bonnie Beach.

The best batteries I have seen/used are the new orbital type batteries. Napa Orbital makes one that is maintanance free, completely sealed, slightly smaller in size, lighter and the power is incredible, IMO. If I ever need new batteries, I will spend the extra money and get them. They are spendy, about $150 each. A good warranty of 4 years too.

If you want decent batteries for a decent price, Wal-Mart probably has the best to offer.

[Valv]

I actually believe 3hp is only about 54lbs.
I might be wrong, but I have a Motorguide 54 and it had somewhere a 3hp label.

[hawghunter]

Could anyone help determine what does a three horse minn-kota trolling motor puts out for thrust

I want to get a new one and make sure it more than what I got.

Thanks in advance

[Guest]

What size motor do you have now and what kind and size of boat do you have?