New Trolling Motor 17 foot CC

Jgebb

I have a 2003 17" sailfish.  The trolling motor is almost done and starting to think about a replacement.  When it was new the TM seemed to push boat pretty good.  It is a motor guide 12 Volt 55lb.  I would need to add a third battery to go with a 24volt system or just go with another 55lb 12 Volt.  Looking for suggestions or maybe someone else with a similar size boat and what they have done.  

Redaction

I fished out of a 17' Key West many years ago and started with a 12V 55lb trolling motor. I didn't like it and finally upgraded to a 24 volt system. I fished a lot back then, and regularly killed my battery, cutting my fishing day short. If feasible (space for battery, extra weight of battery, affordability), I'd jump up to a 24 volt system. However, if the 55lb worked fine for you and your style of fishing...save the money, space, and weight. 

Jgebb

Where did you add the third battery on the key west.  I am leaning toward upgrading but not sure of battery placement.  The console seems to be the only place for a third battery.  .

Redaction

It's been 23 years...I can't remember. I'm drawing a blank...I moved up to a 1720 Action Craft in August of 2000. I bought the Key West new in 97...upgraded to 24V I think in early 99. I'm completely drawing a blank on where even the first battery was. The Action Craft batteries where in the console under the front seat. 

This is going to bug me all night!

tag

I have a Keywest 1720 PRO. I have the 2 trolling motor batteries in the center console (the PRO has a smaller console than the 1720 sportsman) and the starting battery is in the aft starboard compartment. 

Redaction

I had the Pro as well, small console, bench seat, poling platform…I probably had them in the console. 

Jgebb

Thanks for the input.

jt904

 Have a 176 key west stealth, got 2 batteries for TM in the console( absoluetly no room for anything else), and a 3rd starter battery under the seat. for what its worth, I started with an older 55lb motor guide and switched to an 80lb minn kota and absolutely love it. the extra thrust is awesome 

bswiv

Thinking outside the box........

Why not take advantage changing technology and get a single 24V Lithium and save the space and weight of 2 lead-acid 12V?

Here is one option......there are others............... https://dakotalithium.com/product/dakota-lithium-24v-50ah-deep-cycle-marine-trolling-motor-solar-energy-rv-single-battery/

Jgebb

I like the lithium idea.  Battery is pricey but honestly not as much as I thought it would be.