Mounting MinnKota on Crestliner?

[Shorelunch]

My folks have a Crestliner (either a Canadian or Sportsman). I'd like to purchase and mount a Terrova for the bow. Here's the measurements of the vinyl covered section on the bow, not including the aluminum gunwale (about 2" wide) surrounding it:

From the top of the bow down the sides is 20" and it's 21" wide. there's also a plug-in for the nav light to contend with. Is this enough room? What type of bracket would be needed?

[marine_man]

I think it's going to be mighty tight with the front nav light in the way.

I'd be inclined to remove the nav light, mount the trolling motor where it covers the hole preferably, and then re-mount the nav light, maybe further forward on the bow. If you can cover the hole with the removable plate / trolling motor mounting plate you should be in good shape. You may need to extend the wires on the nav light, but that shouldn't be a big deal - solder them or use crimp connectors & shrink tube and you're in good shape.

marine_man

[Shorelunch]

So, if I remove the nav light, there is enough room?

[Mid-Lake Rock]

Here is how I mounted the bracket on my Crestliner. One note, I would take the motor, with the bracket on, and have someone help you hold it on the bow, then deploy the motor. This should be done before drilling. Then you will know you have is where you want it before drilling. Also, make sure you don't drill into the wires for the lights. Note: the other holes in the bracket are from when it was mounted on my other boat.

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm205/rootsmn/Bracket2.jpg

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm205/rootsmn/Bracket1.jpg

[CatManLee]

I have a MinnKota Auto Pilot on the front of my 2002 Crestliner Fish Hawk 1750 and it's in the exact same spot as the pictures from Mid-Lake Rock's post above. No problem, it's kinda tight, but it fits just fine, no need to move the light socket. The only thing you might need would be a longer front light post.

[marine_man]

 Originally Posted By: Shorelunch

So, if I remove the nav light, there is enough room?

I would say so, or it certainly appears to me like there would be.

marine_man