• PO Box 237 Cowaramup, Western Australia 6284

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PO Box 237 Cowaramup, Western Australia 6284

Full Guide to Minn Kota and Motorguide set up

🛠️ Full Guide: Installing & Setting Up Minn Kota and MotorGuide Trolling Motors

⚙️ PART 1: PREP & PLANNING

✅ Choose the Right Trolling Motor

Brand Model Type Key Features
Minn Kota Ultrex, Terrova, PowerDrive, Fortrex Bow-mount i-Pilot, Spot-Lock, AutoPilot, Lift-Assist
MotorGuide Xi3, Xi5, Tour Pro Bow-mount Pinpoint GPS, Anchor, Heading Lock, Silent Operation

🧰 Tools & Materials Needed:

  • Power drill with bits

  • Marine-grade sealant

  • Socket and wrench set

  • Trolling motor quick release bracket (optional)

  • Circuit breaker (50A–60A)

  • Marine-grade wiring (6–8 AWG)

  • Heat-shrink terminals

  • Zip ties or wire clamps

  • Marine batteries (12V, 24V, or 36V depending on the model)

🚤 PART 2: MOUNTING THE MOTOR

1. Select a Mounting Location

  • Always mount on the bow for best control.

  • Verify:

    • The shaft clears the boat deck when deployed.

    • The head does not hit the bow rail or anchor.

    • There’s room for the deploy lever/cord.

2. Install the Mounting Bracket

  • Position the mounting base or quick-release bracket.

  • Mark and drill pilot holes.

  • Apply marine-grade sealant to prevent water ingress.

  • Secure with stainless steel bolts.

3. Attach Motor

  • Mount motor to bracket and secure with provided hardware.

  • Test stow/deploy function before proceeding.

🔌 PART 3: WIRING & POWER SUPPLY

Voltage Guide:

System Voltage Batteries Needed Typical Motor Size
12V 1 x 12V battery < 55 lbs thrust
24V 2 x 12V batteries in series 55–80 lbs thrust
36V 3 x 12V batteries in series 101–112 lbs thrust

Wiring Instructions:

  1. Use marine-grade wire (6 or 8 AWG).

  2. Connect to a circuit breaker (50–60A) near the battery.

  3. Wire batteries in series for 24V/36V systems.

  4. Use a plug & receptacle kit (recommended for easy removal).

✅ Wiring Diagram (simplified):

less
[Battery 1 +] ----+
|----> [Circuit Breaker] ----> [Trolling Motor +]
[Battery 1 -] ----+----> [Battery 2 +] (for 24V)
[Battery 2 -] -------------------------> [Trolling Motor -]

📲 PART 4: CONFIGURATION & SETTINGS

🧭 MINN KOTA (Terrova, Ultrex, i-Pilot)

Function Access via Remote/Foot Pedal Description
Spot-Lock Press anchor button GPS anchor
AutoPilot Press compass icon Maintains direction
Cruise Control +/- buttons Hold steady speed
Record/Track “Record” > “Playback” Save and retrace paths
Steering Sensitivity Settings > Steering Adjust turning rate
Pair Remote Hold “pair” on motor head Bluetooth connection

Advanced Settings:

  • Set boat scale (important for route accuracy).

  • Calibrate heading sensor (for accurate AutoPilot).

  • Use Minn Kota app for firmware updates (i-Pilot only).

📡 MOTORGUIDE (Xi3, Xi5, Tour Pro)

Feature Access Method Description
Anchor Mode (GPS Lock) Press anchor on Pinpoint remote Holds position
Heading Lock Press heading button Locks direction
Route Record/Playback Press “M” > navigate Save and retrace paths
Jog Function While in Anchor Mode Moves boat 5 ft in direction
Speed Control Dial or +/- buttons Adjust thrust levels

Setup Tips:

  • Use Pinpoint Gateway Module to connect to Lowrance/HDS chartplotters.

  • Calibrate compass before using GPS features.

  • Pair the wireless remote by holding the power + anchor button.

🔧 PART 5: TESTING & FINAL CHECKS

  • ✅ Deploy the motor and confirm full range of motion.

  • ✅ Check that prop spins freely.

  • ✅ Engage Spot-Lock/Anchor or Heading Lock.

  • ✅ Use manual mode to check responsiveness.

  • ✅ Ensure the batteries hold voltage under load.

  • ✅ Test remote distance and pairing stability.

🧽 MAINTENANCE & CARE

  • Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

  • Store motor in stowed position when trailering or not in use.

  • Check and tighten mounting bolts seasonally.

  • Grease the pivot points (Minn Kota only).

  • Inspect prop for fishing line or debris.

  • Keep firmware updated (via app or dealer for MotorGuide).

🧾 OPTIONAL UPGRADES

Upgrade Benefits Compatible Brands
Quick Release Bracket Easy motor removal Both
Heading Sensor Improves AutoPilot precision Minn Kota
Sonar Integration View sonar on fish finder Both (with adapters)
Foot Pedal (Wireless) Hands-free control MotorGuide Xi3, Xi5
Mobile App Control Update firmware, use GPS Minn Kota (i-Pilot App)

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