I'm trying to build an electrical panel for my jon boat. I've got an old Minn Kota 12v trolling motor just guessing 35 to 40 lbs thrust that has no model# or ser# on it. I'm wanting to fuse everything, put switch for my lights. and make quick connects etc. I looked online for spec's and they didn't list amperages only thrust.

Does anyone know of a god general amp spec for this generic trolling motor so I can spec the fusing? I want it to be somewhat versatile for the future in case this one craps or in case I upgrade.

I was leaning toward 50amp slo-blow for the TM fuse.

Thanks in advance.

First off, you don't want to over fuse the wire you're going to use.  With a 50 amp, you had better plan on using at least #8 wire.

Second, I would not use a fuse.  you can get manual and auto reset circuit breakers like these http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0001110011823a&type=product&cmCat=search&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&QueryText=circuit+breaker&N=4887&Ntk=Products&Ntx=mode+matchall&Nty=1&Ntt=circuit+breaker&noImage=0 but if you check with a local marine dealer they should have some that have the extra tabs on them so they can be fastened directly to the battery.

Yea good point,  I've got the wire angle covered just wanted to know a generic opinion of how many amps a small to mid size trolling motor draws.  That link you gave will probably cover what I needed. Circuit breaker sounds good so I don't have to change fuses.

I just purchased this for my trolling motor. It has a circuit breaker and battery gauge built in. I also has a breaker for accessories.

http://www.minnkotamotors.com/products/batteries/detail.asp?pg=powercenter

http://www.boatersworld.com/product/369634514.htm

12 V Trolling motors draw quite a few amps just as much as the most powerfull 24v and 36V. From Minnkota's spec sheet amps are roughly=thrust lb ratings. If that one you have is 40 48 or 55 you are drawing quite a few amp and I would recommend 6 gauge and a 50 amp breaker. There will also be less voltage drop in 6 gauge wire.

12v 55lb draws 50 amps

     50lb draws 42 amps

     46 lb draws 42 amps

     40 lb draws 40amps

     36  lb draws32amps

Stratos something just doesn't seem right. Are those actual spec's you posted for 12v trolling motors?

 I don't have anything to go on but from my motor repair background they seen somewhat high. My trolling motor is original and I'm positive that the wires going through the foot switch are 12-14ga or less. These things are just basicaly very small motors untill you get up to the 48v 65lber's I would think. The 48v's in theory have to draw much less current than a 12v for a given thrust rating. I just wouldn't think a battery would last long pulling a constant 30 to 40 amps but maybe so.

Do they list recommended fuse or breaker size for a given thrust motor?

That is right off the pdf file on Minnkota'a website. shoot me a im with you email and i'll send it along.

Thanks after I replied I did a little checking online and your spec's sounded about right. I would still like the Minnkota deal though for reference. So pm it is. I never could get to a spec page when I went to their page a while back.

Thanks for the input case closed.