Thread: Xi5

It can't fry it pappa. I was reading a thread here at CDC of this happening to a member.

Would the new TM's without the new digital stuff need to be unplugged before charging as well?

You just need to check with the manufacturer. The first one that I had with the warning didn't have all the circuitry - just the variable speed instead of fixed speed. That was a MinnKota almost 20 years ago and the manual had the warning to disconnect it before charging. It may just be to protect the manufacturers from a warranty claim in case something goes wrong and it gets cooked. I've been disconnecting mine ever since. It's easy unless you have the cables straight to the batteries.

I had no idea this was a concern before now.... Maybe that's why my TM's have acted funny on occasion??

I've had a lot of experience with these. I had a Minn kota I pilot couple of years ago. I was not impressed with it .It would do good in anchor if the wind was blowing hard constant, but if light variable, it wouldn't update gps fast enough and ramp motor up fast enough to stay on spot. SOLD IT. I bought a xi5 last spring when they came out. its 10x quieter, 2x-3x faster turning, easier to deploy and stow because of foot lever. This thing will keep you" the bow" in a five foot diameter spot. The only bad I have seen is if there is very light to no wind and use anchor mode the motor will spin back and forth very fast but not going anywhere as if trying to stay in a 1 foot spot. I have not contacted them this year to see if they have an update to fix maybe. I love this motor. I use Minn Kota plastic quick disconnect mount and swap it between my Triton and my 14 foot aluminum for smaller bodies of water. You can order extra pucks for these for like $30. I'm in Okc and if anyone wants to see it on the water before they shell out cash give me a shout.

I also bought one last spring not long after they came out. The few times I have been out with a substantial wind it will get blown off of the anchored position but will regroup and return to the spot. Nothing I can't live with. I love it. It makes fishing alone a whole lot easier than dropping anchors or tieing to trees etc.

I took my Xi5 out today for a long session. Probably ran it a little over 2 hours, maybe 45 minutes anchored, batteries (2 27's where still green). Hardly used the foot pedal, it may take some getting use to. The remote works like a champ (as long as you hit the right button ). If there is a little wind to keep the boat's tail straight, the anchor seems to work very well. Near as I could tell, it stayed within 2-3 feet twice when I set it. It is far easier, like boat49 says, than dropping anchors or tying off.

Had mine out for a couple of hours today while checking out my electronics. This was my 2d short outing with it and I think the Pinpoint is the bees knees. I agree about the foot pedal as I mostly sit and it appears designed towards the standing fisherman. My anchor mode worked well also. I parked near a standing bush and sat there for about 15 minutes in a 10-12 mph breeze. So far, so good.