Question about trolling motor power usage
Another thread got me thinking about trolling motor power usage. Let's say
you have a 47lb and 65lb 12v trolling motor. When either trolling motor is
pushing you at the same speed, will one motor be more or less efficient than
the other?I think I am correct in saying that if both are running wide open, the 65lb
is going to require more current and will drain a battery faster. When they
are delivering the same amount of thrust, will the current draws be
compatible? Maybe this justifies buying the bigger motor for the times
where you need the extra thrust. Jeff |
Jeff
Jan 17
2005
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| With the two motors that you're describing, the 47 lb. is going to have to
work harder to maintain the same speed as the 65. Where you might have the
65 pound set at 3, the 47 will probably have to be set at 5 or 6 to maintain
the same speed. At wide open, the 65 lb. will draw more current and drain the battery
faster, just as a larger, more powerful motor will drain a fuel tank faster.
But, by the same token, you will have traveled further than the lesser motor
coulp propel you. What I do know is that when I had my 12 volt, 47 pound motor, there were
days when the battery was dead before I was done fishing. Also, windy days
or days spent fishing river current, sometimes the motor didn't have enough
oomph and couldn't control the boat. I've always been of the opinion that it's better to have the "horsepower"
and not need it, than to need it and not have it! |
Steve
Jan 17
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