Hey guys, I just purchased a new to me boat. The carpet is in really bad condition. So while I’m putting in new carpet, I was thinking of also installing a recessed trolling motor tray. The boat is a 2005 G3 Eagle 165. My concern is that the boat has a center rod locker. Has anyone ever done one of these? I’m worried about how much space I may lose for my rods. 

? Where is the pedestal post mount located ? The recessed TM box is located between the pedestal and bow.

Tom

PS, looked at your boat and the recessed box may not fit into the space.

Tom

18 hours ago, bassmaster81 said:

Hey guys, I just purchased a new to me boat. The carpet is in really bad condition. So while I’m putting in new carpet, I was thinking of also installing a recessed trolling motor tray. The boat is a 2005 G3 Eagle 165. My concern is that the boat has a center rod locker. Has anyone ever done one of these? I’m worried about how much space I may lose for my rods. 

I have a G3 Eagle with the center rod locker as well. I recessed tray will not fit. The space between the top of the locker and the deck is insufficient. About the only option I found was to mount the foot control directly to the deck so it doesn't slide around. It's a pretty good setup. BTW, I upgraded to an 80 ft lb. Ultrexx and have loved every minute of using it. 

I thought about that idea also on my Pro 175 and called G3.  The engineer with whom I spoke would only say "we do not recommend cutting into the deck to do that".  So I fabricated a wooden angle mini stand which is slopped so that my TM foot pedal cable comes out right on top of the bow exactly and is strapped to the deck with a bungy.  I have the little stand facing to the right at the bow and it is quite comfortable for my right foot.  I run a MG 12V digital variable 55lb on a size 27 battery and it is more than enough power for the Tidal Potomac with river flow and tides.  The digital feature makes it real easy on the battery.