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I have a question regarding the location of my trolling motor and my transducer for my pontoon. I have my transducer mounted on the back of my boat on a PVC pipe, and I want to put a trolling motor on the boat as well. I want the TM on the back of the boat so it doesn't get in the way when I want to pitch and flip.

The question is will the trolling motor being so close to the transducer create problems with the depth finder giving accurate readings or will it cause a lot of interferrence?
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[black][size 3]It could. I don't know however cause mine is about 10" away from mine.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3]First off, remember to turn the head 180 on the trolling motor so the prop is facing the same direction as the prop. (you want the forward settings to pull you)[/size][/black]
[black][size 3]Secondly, you only need the transducer in am inch or two of water, in fact, even with the bottom of your pontoon is good.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3]Here is a picture of my deck. Notice the transducer position and the plate to the right of it is for my motor.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3][inline 16450127.castingdeck.jpg][/size][/black]
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Thanks, that is basically the way my will be set up, with the transducer in relation to the location of the TM.


So I want to make sure I understood you right. The forward settings on the motor should be so that is is pulling you backwards, toward the stern of the pontoon?
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FG: Looks like that deck could double as a card table in a pinch.
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[size 1]So I want to make sure I understood you right. The forward settings on the motor should be so that is is pulling you backwards, toward the stern of the pontoon? [/size]


[black][size 3]You do. It is easier on the motor then trying to push you, plus pontoons don't steer worth a crap.[Tongue][/size][/black]
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[black][size 3]If you leave the motor as you buy it, undo the head bolt and turn the head, then carefully put the bolt back in making sure not to damage any wires.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3] This will put the speed control, and the handle if you choose to use it, at reach. You will put it in REVERSE if you do need to go forward (like at shore or if you get stuck on an obstruction)[/size][/black]
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[black][size 3]I went to Radio Shack and for under $15. modified my motor so that the controls are right next to me.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3][inline "Motor 001.jpg"][/size][/black]
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[black][size 3]You will need flippers to steer, but I found out the hard way, that it is possible to steer with the motor on with just your feet[Wink][/size][/black]
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Mine is the same as FG's set up and it hasn't been a problem but I only use my motor on windy days. while I kick or drift while fishing
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[cool][#0000ff]I doubt that the trolling motor will create any interference with the sonar. Some of the bassin' boys actually mount transducers on the bottom of their front mount motors. It may require some adjusting of the sensitivity or other settings.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Of course, not all sonars and motors are created equal. Unless you hook it up and try it, you really won't know. Just be sure that the transducer shaft is far enough away from the prop blades to avoid REAL interference.[/#0000ff]
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Thanks folks, now I need to come up with the $$ to buy a motor, battery, charger, etc.

I only really plan on using the motor in the wind or to get from point A to point B and back, I like the stealthness of using fins when I am actually fishing.
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[cool][#0000ff]Good thinking. A lot of tooners take the lazy approach and get an electric to save on leg power or rowing. But, no doubt about it, you can really appreciate having the TM when it gets breezy...or if you wanna motate a ways down the lake...or you wanna "wash some lures" (trolling).[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]The hands-free stealth mode of using fins while fishing can make for more enjoyable and often more productive fishing. The rest is strictly transportation.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Be sure to check the regs for your state regarding the potential for needing to register your toon if you put a motor on it. Some states are picky about that.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Also, you need to budget for a PFD (personal floatation device). Even if your state does not require it, having one on board is only good safety. Even better, if you can afford it, is to get one of the inflatable types that you can wear all the time without it getting in the way.[/#0000ff]
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If i remember correctly Luke72 has his transducer mounted directly to his and has no issues. There have been times that Luke72 and I have been out and he wanted us both to go way up lake so he gave me a bit of a push, kinda cheating but i do not mind jumping a free ride some times.
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A consideration of mounting the transducer on the motor is we tooners tend to run shallower than a boat and so are much more likely hit debris. So it may be best to mount it coming off the frame with some PVC.
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[black][size 1]Post:[/size][/black] [black][size 1][cool][#0000ff]Good thinking. A lot of tooners take the lazy approach and get an electric to save on leg power or rowing. But, no doubt about it, you can really appreciate having the TM when it gets breezy...or if you wanna motate a ways down the lake...or you wanna "wash some lures" (trolling).[/#0000ff]
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[black][size 3]Or use it to get back to shore quick to get your Partner(who decided to take his float tube instead) Jerky and a drink![cool][/size][/black]
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[cool][#0000ff]JERKY??? That's not a very nice way to refer to Mojo. He says nice things about you...especially when you make those runs to the supply station for him.[/#0000ff]
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[black][size 3]I calls em as I seez em' LOL. We gotta do it again real soon TD. Thinking down south for Easter weekend if Poky can't make it to Daniels. If he can, then we are loading up the trailer and heading to Malad.[/size][/black]
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[cool][#0000bf]I'll be at Starvation, with mactuna and nansea on Saturday this week. No plans for Sunday. Might be doing a "ring around Utah Lake" next week to find some walleyes.[/#0000bf]
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FG I still love the handle on the rod in that pic. I was glad to see it in person once.
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[black][size 3]NEXT WEEK! Stay in touch. I have to work this weekend so if we fish at all it will be the river., but next weekend, CAMPING![/size][/black]
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When are you planning to go around Utah lake again?

I am off on Monday and weather permitting, I would like to chase some cats.
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[cool][#0000ff]Got a tentative hookup with Polokid Monday, for Lindon. Lots of nice cats before the storm. Not sure what it will be on Monday. Wanna join us?[/#0000ff]
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yep, you remember right. I mounted it on the bottom of my tm. No issues at all. I was getting pretty much the same readings as majja was on his last time we went together.
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