Shaft length is too short on new trolling motor - what should I do??

[LetThemGo]

I purchased a new MinnKota Maxxum this spring, and the dealer said that a 53" shaft should be adequate for my new boat, and I imagined it would be as well. Now that I've had the boat in the water, I can see I'm probably going to have problems in any waves bigger than a foot.

Any ideas/experience on what I should do here? Do you think the dealer should/would exchange the motor? Is there any way a MinnKota service center could lengthen the shaft length on the motor, or are you stuck with the shaft length you purchased?

Thanks in advance for any comments/advice on this issue.

[Surface Tension]

Contact the dealer and see what they say, if they rigged the boat they might be willing to cut you some type of deal but they'll be hesitant and rightly so.

Wouldn't hurt to ask MinnKota what they could do for you.

In the end you might end up keeping what you have and dealing with it like by sitting in the bow in heavy waves.

I've got a 52" PD AP and under most situations is long enough, when it isn't I'd rather be using the primary outboard anyway.

[TSCTSC]

I would call the dealer and tell them that the shaft is too short. I think as a dealer that sold to you, they should tell you what shaft should be right for you. I had intended to get a 54 but when I arrived at Motor Clinic, the guys there advised me to get the 60". I think that is the right way. If the dealers do not resolve the issue for you, try calling Minnkota and telling them your problem citing lack of good advice from the dealer. They might authorize a return or an exchange, which you could possibly do at any Minnkota dealer or just ship it back to Minnkota themselves.

[Guest]

longer shafts are available and can be installed by places like motor clinic. The price is very reasonable if you compare it to the cost of replacing the motor. I seem to recall minnkota charging around $50 for shafts.. I cant remember where I got that from, but I know they are available.

[WigglinMyWorm]

I just got a new shaft for mine.....$35 through minkota....also don't try to install them yourself...it's worth it to pay someone to do it.....they red loc-tite them in at the factory and unless you have a good size torch to heat up the base to spin them out...they will never come out.

[LetThemGo]

Thanks Guys. I really appreciate your replies. Going to start with talking to the dealer on Monday, but it is good to hear there is a possibility of a longer shaft that could be installed by MinnKota Service Center.

Thanks again - I really appreciate it.