See full version: Custom bracket for Minn Kota bow mount - need feedback
A couple of years back, I decided I wanted to add a Minn Kota Riptide ST 55 to the bow of my 17' daycruiser, but was unable to find a good way of mounting any of the standard brackets, so I shelved the project. I even made a post on this board, but nothing much came of that. This is the front deck of my boat:
This would require having the locker hatch open when using the trolling motor, which should be fine, as it has a drainage hole, and the locker isn't currently being used anyway. This part of the bracket should be pretty easy to make:
My first question would be what is your use going to be.
Sometimes we find it easier to use quick release brackets in these situations even if you do not plan on taking the trolling motor off of your boat. The center "puck" of the quick release bracket is easier to place and line up in the middle of your raised mount surface and it only requires four (4) bolts to secure as opposed to six (6). Use the mounting template on the inside of the bracket box to help you drill the bolt holes. Just position the template on the hull, fasten it with some masking tape and you'll be able to drill "worry-free," perfect holes for your bracket. more
Correct Deployment Angle: When deployed the shaft must be positioned as close to a 90 degree angle as possible.
Mounting a trolling motor over raised edging along the hull is one of the most common challenges when installing a new motor. Since a trolling motor must be mounted in a horizontal position and close enough to the edge of the hull to be able install it properly, any "lip" or raised surface on the bow will impede proper positioning and operation.
Some of the best trolling motor mounting solutions come directly from my customers. As I mentioned, it is not uncommon to have to come up with creative solutions in order to mount your motor in the proper position. In the case of a slightly raised bow lip addressed in the previous section, the solution is quite easy and straightforward. However, some bow configurations present a much greater challenge. [links]
FCOUIID Outboard Bracket Hinge Assembly – Electric Trolling Motor Stent Mount Marine Thrust for Kayak Product Description & Features: Universal bracket that receives any
STC Stores Electric Trolling Motor Kayak Mounting Bracket Kit MK2 Product Description & Features: New and improved bracket design with stronger components than the
Attwood 8M0092063 Xi Series Quick-Release Bracket Kit for Electric Trolling Motors – White Product Description & Features: For electric trolling motors Color: White Compatible with here
There are a lot of small welding shops that make products for boats. Many of these shops will make anything you want. You can walk into a welding shop; show them a picture, and they will make it up for you. I always work with people that do boat work because you know that they will have the equipment to do the work. here
If you have not purchased your canoe yet consider buying a canoe with a transom at the back made for a trolling motor.
The first thing to consider is the weight and power of the motor need to match the construction and material used to make the bracket. Example, if you have a 35lb electric trolling motor a pressure treated piece of 2” by 12” might work just fine but it will never work for an 8 hp gas motor. [links]
For a third option, Attwood makes a slide-on bracket that looks good. I have not used this bracket, so I am going on the installation instructions. The system includes a base plate that you mount to your boat and a slide plate that you mount to your motor. Included in the package are all the bolts that you need for the install. more
You can make a trolling motor bracket in your home shop. I have made a few different brackets to compensate for motor shaft length. [links]