lrg355

I was surprised how well it works!

I had a unique approach since I already had a Lowrance-Navico outboard pilot unit from a previous boat. I bought a hydraulic steering unit from Vivor ($350). Put it on the kicker only. Helm is mounted in a convenient place on the dash. Put a small crank handle on the helm. The outboard pilot is controlled by my Lowrance HDS 12. The Lowrance hydraulic outboard pilot is probably about $1k today, so this whole setup would be about $1500 if you already had a Lowrance unit or equivalent NMEA 2000 capable unit to run it. PXL_20230915_123302061.TS.mp4

Need the TM talking to the HB. That means NEMA 2000 interface on both units. Terrova or higher on the TM and make sure HB you are interested in or already have has NEMA 2000 capability. A NEMA backbone setup and a few cables will be minimum.

I never paid any attention to MDO but recently looked at its specs. Seems like a better choice than ACX. Unfortunately I can't seem to find any locally. Lowes And Home Depot don't carry it anymore. MDF is definitely no good and that is what they are pushing. Where did you get yours from ?

Stumbled across this info online. Very interesting1000000784 (720×411)

I am surprised about everyone who does not go by manufacturers recommendations. Lots of comments on charging while running but all wrong!

Read your manual carefully. It states that charging batteries while using the trolling motor can cause damage to the control board on the GPS models.

You probably have extra wires on the side mount control. One of them would surely be 12v supply only when key is on. If it is a factory side mount controller or a generic such as a Vevor, it will be there. Just check all unused "bullet" connectors for power only when the key is on. Good luck.

Go to Wallmart and get 50 lb test Shakespeare line. Very inexpensive, about $4. 1 spool will do 3 or 4 rods. Put on 150 or so ft of the 50 over a 3/4 filled reel, than 25 ft of quality 25 lb test fluorocarbon leader. Watch your knots so they are not so big such that they can't go thru eyes and levelwind eye. The 150 ft will be vertical when you use rigger and the diameter of the 50 lb is such that the fleas can't grab it. Horizontally from release to lure will be 25 lb fluoro but fleas don't grab much in horizontal position. Been doing this for many years and don't have a problem with fleas.