repair shops was no help they would just replace the part and would not fix what was making the part bad. so i had to ship it to minn kota. i got on there website and got there number. mine was under warranty. you may be a different deal but they were very helpful. you can send them a email and they will call you back. don't know how much it cost to buy a new shaft but it was 50 bucks to ship the whole unit so you may want to look into that

The cost of a new shaft is $90. Minn Kota will cover parts only-- not labor. Labor will cost $75. So for $75 it can be fixed. I'm pretty sure a stainless steel shaft wouldn't even of blinked. The composite shaft folded like a cheap lawn chair.

you CAN buy a stainless shaft for the minn kota . pm me if intrested

I seen it happen, it would have put a 90 degree bend in a SS shaft.

bending...
 

Can the metal be bent straight again? after heating?

I have straightened mine a few times....I stay away from the heat if possible...

I have welded pieces of metal, pipe couplings or whatever I have laying around to the table and make a jig for straightening...just take your time and go slow, a little pull and move it and another little pull...you can straighten them pretty good with a little patience.

man i have hit alot of stumps in mine it hasn't splintered yet.......the piece at the top that it mounts too has even broke but not the shaft