My boat

[Redwings97]

Well, here's a question on the TM front - currently I have a 50 pound thrust. I can get around fine with it on speeds 3 & up on most days. If the water is choppy or it's real windy, running it on 4 or 5 (5 is max) is a must. I know that's a little underpowered. I was thinking of getting a 71 pound thrust. Is that enough of a jump, or do I need to go bigger? For example - the difference in price between the 71 pound thrust and something in the 100 pound thrust range is $400. Not wanting to break the bank or anything, but I would like something that will move me a little more efficiently.

All of the bigger Ranger's come stock with a Minn Kota Maxxum 80#, 42" shaft. This is the most thrust you will get from a 24 volt system. I would tell you or any of my customers, just step up to the 80# thrust opposed to the 70# Maxxum. Now if you go to the new Fortrex 80#, you will need to get a 45" shaft.

An 80# trolling motor should be plenty of power on an 18' boat. Most of the Rangers I have sold, that is the choice by most of my customers. The 101# thrust usually are installed on the 20-21' boats.

another thing - go glassmat batteries, group 27, for the trolling. Longer run time and more charges.