Hello!

I just purchased a 93 Ranger 397v fish and ski. It still has the original trolling motor, and i'd like to install the brand new 12v minn kota I bought for my old boat. The current trolling motor has a 12v/24v switch on it, and has a 4 prong plug that plugs into a bow mounted receptacle. The replacement is only 12v. I'd like to wire the new trolling motor to the ranger plug in. Boat has 2 12v deep cycle, and a separate 12v for starting.

 

I know i could wire them parallel to put out 12v, but can I still use the plug with this setup? and is this the best way to install it? Thanks!!!

Yes you just use 2 of the 4 pins. You might want to rethink the 12v TM though. Even the largest 12V's are marginal for a 19 1/2' boat.

I just got it about 4 months ago, that's why I was going to switch it. The current one is 45 lb, same as my new one, is there any difference?

I suggest selling both TMs and putting that toward a used 80lb 24V.

I suggest selling both TMs and putting that toward a used 80lb 24V.

+1

Okay thanks for your help, I will look into it.

I agree with the suggestion to upgrade to a 24V system, at least a 70lb IMO. I had a 55lb 12V on my 16' aluminum and even that wasn't enough if there was much wind (there's always lots of wind in KS). 

 

If that's not in your budget right now then for sure rig them parallel so you can get a longer battery life. 

Bluebasser that's kind of the problem, I just bought this troller for my trihull not expecting to be getting a bigger better boat. It's a foot controlled minn kota edge. I'd rather not lose out on the money spent on the new TM, plus have to get the funds for a new 24v motor. I know it's not ideal but im not a hardcore fisherman anyways, so at least for now, I'd like to just use what I have. Save up for the right one and then sell this one.

 

The main issue I'm having is how to wire the minn kota to the existing Ranger style 4 pin plug. I have found out plenty of ways to wire it for 24V, but none for 12. Can I just wire them in parallel as you suggested and only use 2 of the inputs at the TM plug, effectively making a 2 prong plug?