Motor Mount... Perpendicular to Stern?

[jkmoore]

I recently received a new trolling motor (Happy Father's Day) to replace an older weaker model.  In the past, I would mount the motor to the plate where the tiller and rudder met.   Once I was in open water, I would remove the motor to eliminate drag. Since I added lifelines and rails, the tilt option on the motor would seriously limit the rudder movement (the motor would hit the rails as the tiller moved), so removal or increased drag was the only option.

I'd like a more permanent solution that would not require removing the motor. I'd affix it to the motor mount (once I install it) and tilt it up, but it is a 42" and would extend a long way off the stern  (that's one way to cure three-foot-itis!)...  Has anyone utilized a motor mount that runs perpendicular to the stern so that the motor can be tilted parallel to the stern?  Or is anyone aware of an articulated mount for a trolling motor? 

THANKS!

[Paul]

That's a tough one.  I'm a little surprised your 16 didn't come with a motor mount.

How high off the water is the stern rail? 

[jkmoore]

Paul - Thanks for the response.  The boat did come with a motor mount. The previous owner removed it and most other hardware because he liked "clean lines".

I'll have to head to the dock this weekend to provide the measurement.   The rail is the one provided by Hutchins for their lifelines.   

THANKS!

[Paul]

I suppose you could manufacture a fixed motor mount for your trolling motor.  You may have seen the fixed type in a catalog or online.  Looks like two pieces of metal attached to a block of wood or black plastic. 

I'm thinking of that basic design.  You could modify that design by using somewhat longer pieces of metal and cutting them at such an angle that the attached block actually rises up enough to keep you motor at it's proper height when in the "down" position and provide enough space forward of the block to tilt the motor in the "up" position.

You'd have to figure out the measurements.  You're just extending the "fixed type" of motor mount up and out enough to get what you need from your motor.

The earlier question about your rail height was in relation to the length of your motor's shaft.  As an alternative, you could mount your motor on the rail.  Sometimes you see bigger yachts with an auxiliary motor mounted on the rail for storage.  You would actually be able to use yours there.  In my opinion, you'd sacrifice aesthetics on such a small boat.

Hope this helps.

[jkmoore]

Paul - I appreciate the help.  In looking over everything, I think I am going to be fine with the standard mount after all... 

THANKS!