Do all trolling motor bases have the same hole pattern for mounting (to the boat)? I have a 1984 boat and want to replace the trolling motor and want to know if I buy a new trolling motor will the holes of the new base match up with the holes of the old base? I think the trolling motor that is on there now is a motorguide. It still runs strong but parts of the base have recently broken as has the clip that holds the motor down.

What brand trolling motor do you recommend? Motorguide or Minn Kota? Why?

I prefer the Mijnn Kota and I have no idea if the mounting holes of any of the new ones are the same. Actually the bases are a lot larger than they were years ago so it will probably just cover up any existing holes you now have. Worked on mine when I made a change.

I also replaced the tm on my '84 Ranger, I think it was a MG and bought a MK Edge the holes fit perfect. I just forgot to put the base back on, and it still setting in my shed.

I asked the same question 2 or 3 years ago and the answer then was yes same pattern.

I switched from a Motorguide to MinnKota and the hole pattern was the same. Not sure where you fish but after bending 2 MG metal shafts I switched to MK composite and have never had a problem.

Allen