[KeysKid]

How long did it last or not last maybe? Reason I ask is that ive got a Yak coming and I have a 55lb thrust MinnKota that I used to use in the sweetwater, I havent used it in about 4 years. Its just collecting dust, so I was kinda thinking what the hell, give it a shot, throw it on the yak...be nice to save 500 bucks for a new "saltwater" motor...Anyone have any personal experience with this?

Maybe I should just sell the freshwater model and put the money towards a saltwater model?

 

[Captain Phil]

I ran a freshwater on my 14' boat, in the bay all last summer. No problems. After each use, I would spray it down good with W-D 40, or some kind of spray lub.

 

[KeysKid]

Hmmmmmm so far I like what I hear!

 

[Bill Couch]

Keyskid I have been using a bowmount MinnKota 46lb on my aluminum boat for 5 yrs. Had to repaint the lower end and the bracket twice. No problems if you rinse EVERY time you use. Go for it. Bill

 

[KeysKid]

Sweet,,,I like having my pockets a little fatter

 

[akozols]

Go for it. I have a 14' and used my trolling motor for two seasons with no problem. The pedal control evantually died, but it was over 8 years old. I've taken the lower unit apart and there are rubber seals to keep the insides completely dry.

This year I bought a new tiller control motor and am going to rig up the old motor to be saltwater only.

Al

 

[Bgsdad]

I would make sure I put a anode (zinc) on the shaft. It wouldn't hurt!

 

[Predator]

Thought about the same issues you did.

I have a 55# Endura transom mount style used on a bow bracket. Use it duck hunting near Great Bay. I recently added a sacrificial anode nut. You can get it from West Marine. Its a replacement for the one that goes on the saltwater version. The motor housing has some rust after two yrs, I just painted over it. The bolt at top at the throttle is rusted, I plan to replace that with a stainless steel nut and bolt. Coat the bracket bolts with grease or oil otherwise they rust too. Otherwise no problems.

 

[paul708]

got on for sale on the sale board.if anybody wants to try one

 

[REELKNOT]

A friend of mine used one on his 14' for about 6 seasons now with no problems.I know he washes it down real good with fresh water and sprays corrosion x on it.I think you would be fine but like Bgsdad said it would be smart to put a zinc on it.

 

[clamchucker]

Originally posted by Bgsdad:
I would make sure I put a anode (zinc) on the shaft. It wouldn't hurt!

Second Bgsdad & others as to a zink for longevity. Clamp-around configurations are available. Elec. & saltwater makes for damage to any metal. Keep an eye out as to a clean contact with shaft from time to time as zinks will oxodize all round & lessen protection accordingly. Washdown & protective sprays/lubes are a no brainer BUT avoid getting any on the zink (defeats it sacrifical qualities). Save a few bucks? I believe so

 

[jimmatthews]

Bought a 30# thrust Minn Kota at end of last season at wally world for $65. A battery will be another $55. Am going to put it on my 15' plastic kayak and use it for bay fishing this spring.

 

[trd]

i have been using a 55 lb thrust freshwater minn kota in the salt since 2002 I use it almost every day through out the season (mid march to mid dec.).I would rebuild guts every winter.Just ordered a riptide bowmount auto pilot with foot pedal,hoping with same after use care it gives me the same consistency the freshwater model did.