I have a 16' Nitro bass boat in which I have to replace the trolling motor. The motor being replaced is an older bow mount 42lb thrust Motor Guide.

I am considering replacing it with the MinnKota Power Drive V2 55 lb thrust w/built in sonar. Is anyone running a Power Drive V2? If so, how do you like it?

I am also concerned about mounting a different manufactured motor then what was previously installed. My concern is that the holes will or will not line up properly on the new motors mounting bracket. Are the dimensions of the holes for mounting a bow mount trolling motor universal across all manufacturers?

Also, since I want to up the lb thrust is wire gauge going to be an issue. Does anyone know what wire gauge is recommended for a 55lb thrust 12 volt motor?

thanks in advance to all answers and suggestions.

I have that exact motor. Do yourself a favor and DONT BUY IT! I HATE the electric steering. The only thing about it that might be good is the autopilot. I have the CoPilot for it but only because the foot pedal sucks so bad. Its terrible to drive I regret it all the time. Its got alot of power and its quiet... Until you turn, and then your cover is blown. Its loud and rough. Do yourself a serious favor and stick with a cable steer model. Oh did I mention what a pain it is to stow and deploy? I have to use my foot and kick it loose because it seats into the mount so tight.

The electric steer trolling motors are best suited for those that troll like when fishing for walleyes and crappie where precise maneuvering is not necessary. For bass fishing, a foot control cable steer or manual hand control is much preferred.

Some models of those are available with a built-in transducer.

have that exact motor. Do yourself a favor and DONT BUY IT! I HATE the electric steering. The only thing about it that might be good is the autopilot. I have the CoPilot for it but only because the foot pedal sucks so bad. Its terrible to drive I regret it all the time. Its got alot of power and its quiet... Until you turn, and then your cover is blown. Its loud and rough. Do yourself a serious favor and stick with a cable steer model. Oh did I mention what a pain it is to stow and deploy? I have to use my foot and kick it loose because it seats into the mount so tight.

   x2

I have that exact motor. Do yourself a favor and DONT BUY IT! I HATE the electric steering. The only thing about it that might be good is the autopilot. I have the CoPilot for it but only because the foot pedal sucks so bad. Its terrible to drive I regret it all the time. Its got alot of power and its quiet... Until you turn, and then your cover is blown. Its loud and rough. Do yourself a serious favor and stick with a cable steer model. Oh did I mention what a pain it is to stow and deploy? I have to use my foot and kick it loose because it seats into the mount so tight.

Hmmmm???

Thanks for the feedback. Maybe I will consider another model.

2 friends of mine have this trolling motor and I have used them both. Compared to a cable steer the powerdrive is loud when turning and slow to respond. The holes in your boat now will not line up with a powerdrive hole pattern. The motor is quiet when running though. IMO for bass fishing a cable steer is the way to go. As far as wire size I would go with 6 gauge.  

I went with the Motor Guide Pro Series. I gave it a test run yesterday and it works like a champ.

thanks for all the suggestions.