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I'd love to have a variable speed trolling motor, it's just too bad how expensive they are. Having bought a 997 a year ago, it'll be a while before I make another large purchase for my boat. Like most, my transom mounted trolling motor will only go as slow as 1.0-1.2 mph, so to slow it down even more I will tilt the motor as much as needed to get the speed I want.
Boat control is the most important thing in fishing. A variable speed trolling is very important. I have a 101 lb 36v Minn Kota Maxxum. It is a must!!! The first thing I tell people when they are setting up a boat is they must have a variable speed TM. Speed is very important.
A big advantage of the variable speed motors is power consumption. A 5-speed motor uses a speed coil to control motor speed. They use full power at all settings, with the extra being given off as heat. The variable pulses the power on and off rapidly to control the motor speed. This can increase battery life quite a bit at any speed lower than 100%.
I agree.Quote:
Originally Posted by CatFan
The only problem with PWM vs speed coils is that the Variable has a much higher failure rate. MHO
This can be verified by any repair shop.
Not sure I believe the part about it drawing the same amount of power at all speeds. I can drain my battery a hell of a lot faster on high speed compared to when I troll on low speed. I have the MK Endura 30/30" TM. All I need for a 14' aluminum shallow V boat.
I could see where too big of a trolling motor would move the boat too fast. Kind of like sticking a V8 in a Cavalier. Bigger isn't always better.
I have a Motorguide Brute 5 speed and run it on 24v all time. I can get as slow as I want or fast enough to move across the lake without cranking the big motor. I find the motor to be more efficient on 24v, and the batteries discharge equally. I have a Dual Pro Extreme charger which charges your trolling batteries while running down the lake. You would be surprised at the additional charge this charger gives through your big motor alternator. Yeah, I know, ask me what time it is and I will tell you how to build a wristwatch!