Thread: How much thrust?

Originally Posted by matzilla

you guys know you can run 2 and even 3 batteries in parallel on a 12v trolling motor right? You're not getting any added runtime by moving to 24 and 36v compared to having 2 and 3 batteries in parallel at 12v. I run a pair of group 27 AGM's on my boat with my old 12v 54lb motor guide trolling motor and can switch to use both, or a single if need be.

You are absolutely correct by running parallel. This format however does have its own downsides as does any setup.

Just so everyone is clear. Ether method will get you longer run time.

I for one do not care to parallel batteries if I can help it.

The OP was also asking about thrust. You can always turn a larger TM down but once you hit max on a smaller TM.... Your done.

Great addition to the thread.

Another option (common in heavy river current) is to use the trolling motor to steer the boat while locking the outboard in place to push you forward at the pace you desire...just tossing this out there even though it has a very small window of when its ideal

112 terrova i-pilot on a tracker pro team 190 here , power to spare. I can slow troll all week on a charge, pull cranks for 3 days. I also use 12v cart batteries for their long life and how long they hold charge.

Originally Posted by CrappieNutz

When choosing a proper thrust I refer to the manufacturer. With the new GPS motors like Ipilot and Xi5 if you get the wrong thrust to weight ratio then your spotlock or digital anchor will go wonky. 55lb for my deep V works great but on my brothers plain jane john boat it jerks it around and is eratic.

My 80 on my G3 was jerky to until Ipilot come out with a update that ramps up the speed different than when it come out , But you have to have the Link to update it I believe

Originally Posted by CrappieNutz

When choosing a proper thrust I refer to the manufacturer. With the new GPS motors like Ipilot and Xi5 if you get the wrong thrust to weight ratio then your spotlock or digital anchor will go wonky. 55lb for my deep V works great but on my brothers plain jane john boat it jerks it around and is eratic.

I have never used this type of setup so I will tread lightly. I would think the jerky and erratic problems would be centered around the motor over powering because of programming. Much like what clfarms1 added in the above post. Even my 83# on my 21' bassboat can all but throw me into the water when set incorrectly for the situation. Thrust is directly related to motor speed. Just because the motor is a 112# does not mean it is producing 112# at a lower speed setting.

Have you experienced this with both the Ipilot and Xi5?

Is the thrust/speed set by the Ipilot or set by the operator?

Interesting angle to the thread