Posted by CT 99 Whaler on 02/08/24 - 1:43 PM
#1
Hi all, I'm new here. I just picked up a 1999 18' Dauntless in really nice shape. We're looking to install a trolling motor up front on the bow with their battery in the console. The boat has a rail on it. Has anyone had a similar experience doing this? If so how did you get the wire there, how did you mount the T.M.? Also what brands? The boat has a Garmin Echomap 9" does it make sense to keep with a Garmin T.M.?
Thanks, Court
Posted by Phil T on 02/09/24 - 4:47 PM
#2
Running any wires under the deck is NOT recommended.
Dozens of owners have installed a trolling motor on a boat that does not have a pre-wire.
To do this without major modifications, batteries are installed in the console. The floor is cut and the batteries sit on the deck,
The trolling batteries are wired to the on/off switch and also wired to a plug receptacle installed on the side wall of the console.
The trolling motor power wire is modified to add a male plug.
A heavy duty extension cord is made up of marine battery cable of appropriate gauge with a female connector (for the motor end) and a male end (console). The cord is stored in the console when not in use..
Hinge to the bow rail.
You can add a hinged section to the bow rail using either bimini eyes or a rail hinge fitting from Victory products. Let me know if you want details on the rail hinge
Posted by CT 99 Whaler on 02/10/24 - 6:14 AM
#3
Hi Phil, thanks for your reply. Would you mind sharing details on the modifications of the rail? Also what's the best way of mounting the T.M. to the bow?
Posted by Phil T on 02/11/24 - 2:43 PM
#4
Court -
Here is a decent photo showing the mounting of the quick release mount and a hinged rail.
The hinge can be found here:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WSKPR7DB07WSKPR7D
The ends are bimini eyes with a quick release pin.
I can't locate Schuyler84's awesome post from 2020 so here is a photo of the parts information.