Thread: Fortrex Trolling Motor

I too read on the Minn Kota website that the US2 has dual beam (20 & 60 degree) capabilities. That is one of the things that got me interested in the Fortrex. That and the lift assist feature. But as they say "Don't believe everything you read" so I look forward to hearing from someone that has one. Thanks.

LB

In my trolling motor manual that was a 4 page "booklet" that referred to the US2. It indicated that the motor is equipped with a high quality built-in transducer that, along with the proper Minn Kota Adapter Cable, will provide compatibility with the sonar units listed in the following chart. For the most current list, please visit our web site Home | Minn Kota Motors or call Minn Kota Technical Services at 800-227-6433.

No mention of cone angle in the literature that I have :rolleyes:. It did indicate the following..

1. "Only Minn Kota brand alternator type charging systems can be used to recharge the deep cycle battery(s) connected to a Minn Kota US2 motor.

2. "You should only use Minn Kota brand alternator type charging systems. Most other brand alternator charging systems connect the deep cycle trolling motor battery(s) negative post(s) to the crank/starting battery negative post. This connection could cause a direct short in the electrical system of a Minn Kota US2 motor."

Compatibility Chart

http://www.minnkotamotors.com/_docs/...ilityChart.pdf

Adapter Cables and Info

Adapter Cables | Universal Sonar 2 | Accessories | Products | Minn Kota

Originally Posted by drifter106

In my trolling motor manual that was a 4 page "booklet" that referred to the US2. It indicated that the motor is equipped with a high quality built-in transducer that, along with the proper Minn Kota Adapter Cable, will provide compatibility with the sonar units listed in the following chart. For the most current list, please visit our web site Home | Minn Kota Motors or call Minn Kota Technical Services at 800-227-6433.

No mention of cone angle in the literature that I have :rolleyes:. It did indicate the following..

1. "Only Minn Kota brand alternator type charging systems can be used to recharge the deep cycle battery(s) connected to a Minn Kota US2 motor.

2. "You should only use Minn Kota brand alternator type charging systems. Most other brand alternator charging systems connect the deep cycle trolling motor battery(s) negative post(s) to the crank/starting battery negative post. This connection could cause a direct short in the electrical system of a Minn Kota US2 motor."

Compatibility Chart

http://www.minnkotamotors.com/_docs/...ilityChart.pdf

Adapter Cables and Info

Adapter Cables | Universal Sonar 2 | Accessories | Products | Minn Kota

Drifter, another interesting issue...I will call MK back this morning....

I just talked with MK..The info I received yesterday was not correct...US2 is a 200/83 transducer...So, my 777c will have the correct transducer..

The rep is standing firm on the statement about MK chargers..Said other chargers do not isolate the cranking battery so you have a loop to the transducer which can cause problems...

Tom or someone else will have to explain all this....I am waiting until this afternoon before ordering the Fortrex..

I think it is roughly a $400.00 difference between the Fortrex and the Maxxum..For this $400.00 you get lift assist, US2 and a better bracket. Now I am wondering whether it is worth it.I have never had a problem with the MK old style bracket..

I am with you DonG. I am going to have to rethink getting a Fortrex. The Maxum maybe the way to go. I think it is available with a US2 also but based on what DonG posted, it might have the same potential for a BIG problem. ZAPPED!! It looks as though Minn Kota is trying to make sure you buy one of their on-board chargers. What is the difference between an "Alternator" type charge and a regular 3 bank charger? I saw them in the Bass Pro fishing catalog.

As good as the US2 sounds, I may have to just install the transducer on the motor. Worked before and it will work again. Besides, it will same me some cash $. Thanks for the help and information.

LB

Its been a long time since I seen an on-board charger that uses a common ground. They all use isolated grounds unless maybe there are some real cheapies out there that don't.

Originally Posted by IBNFSHN

Its been a long time since I seen an on-board charger that uses a common ground. They all use isolated grounds unless maybe there are some real cheapies out there that don't.

I agree Bill. Somebody is full of it.

Originally Posted by Cane Pole

I agree Bill. Somebody is full of it.

Tom, you or Bill draw me a picture of a 3 bank charger and how the grounds are isolated..I just don't understand from reading.. Don't the 3 different ground wires go back to the charger to a terminal strip?