the difference between trolling motors

[keakar]

Originally Posted by redspeck82

Anybody have Minn Kota's new 112 riptide? Have not heard much about them yet.

keep in mind, the information you get on the internet is worth what you paid for it but when I was researching things to see what problems minnkota and motorguides have had, I found reports that the motors of 100 lbs thrust and over minnkota motors (all of the styles and types) are having issues with cracked shafts after a year or two. its the only negative thing (besides price) other then them not being true to the thrust number they claim by about 5 lbs. and as much as 10 lbs. in the big ones like you are looking at.

from what I read the fix wasn't expensive (like $40 plus labor) but it seamed to be a problem that the shafts flex too much and aren't strong enough to hold up to 100+ lbs of thrust kicking in and they get stress cracks over time because of it. I would think (guess) if you don't use all the power you would probably never have an issue.

I wouldnt say its a reason to avoid them and as far as I could tell its a common issue with all there big motors. its just a maint type issue, something to keep an eye on to replace the shaft after a few years.