Trolling motors in saltwater

[Fishhunt223]

Has anybody ever used their freshwater trolling motors in the salt?  I heard that you have to replace a seal every time but is that the extent?  It is a minn kota auto pilot.

[PolarBear]

Electrolysis is you biggest enemy.  Salt water and electrical current hate each other and will eat away at your metal.  You need to put a sacrificial metal (zinc) on it so electrolysis will attack it instead of your trolling motor.  Also, wash the hell out of everything with soap and water when you are done.

[Fishhunt223]

So just put the hunk of zinc right on the bottom of my trolling motor or does it need to be touching metal?

[PolarBear]

I would say between the shaft and the prop on top.

[Fishhunt223]

Okay so it doesnt need to be touching the metal?

[sisu]

Take a look at Mini Kota's marine versions to see the difference.
here is the link
http://www.minnkotamotors.com/advantage/saltwater.aspx

[h2ofowlr]

I would pick up the white Min kota trolling motor.  I used the standard one and it is dead.  I even washed it really good after each use.  The zink won't help on to much on a standard trolling motor.