Trolling Motor Installation

Got a new Fortex today and the mounting hardware won't work out, can't access backside of bow. For those who have mounted a TM - 1) Did you use bolt isolator's or some other system? 2) Name brand? The ones at Bass Pro don't have very good reviews. Thanks for any feedback.

Exactly what boat do you have? A bass boat? Rare for there to be no access. How would you ever replace the bow eye for instance? Photos of the bow please.

I never trust anything other than through-bolt.

I recently put a new one on my Bass Cat and it was a pain in the [censored]. The access on a 04 model wasn't a whole lot to work with but I was able to fight through it and get it done. I don't believe mine came with bolt isolators. I installed with the hardware it came with. I used four bolts, washers and teflon locking nuts. I was not able to get two bolts installed at the very nose of the bow but it's solid and not going anywhere. I believe I've heard of people cutting out more access and installing a plate over it if needed.

Nitro 898. Removed access panel and there's a 2 3/4" round access hole, however, the forward most bolts are 20" away. Have not removed current TM yet, but it appears that they used isolator's on the MG.

Sounds much like my old fish and ski except definitely nuts on the back side. Could barely fit my arm thru whatever size hole that was. Worse, the hole was rough cut by hand apparently. No choice but to carefully force your arm thru or cut the hole bigger if that doesn't work. Twasn't a fun job getting at them nuts.

Can you get to it from the rod box? Gonna have to take the rod holders out but that may be your only choice.

OK Been through the ringer on this. I seem to change boats every few years and will only use a Terrova. My big CC and last Bass Cat current Ranger. I busted out the saws all cut the bolts off old motor used large stainless wood screws and siliconed the new unit on (30 min). I know it's not for everybody but I'm a carpenter and it s not going anywhere. If its getting loose I will know. The garage door opener your standing under has less holding it up. A bad back and tired of no access. Only do it if your confident in what your doing.

Promise one week on Rayburn of tournament fishing, it'll be ripped out. If I do not have access, I will cut an access hole. Under the pedal on a basscat. Make sure to use at least 6 bolts with fender washers or use an aluminum backing plate. Make sure you counter sink the gel coat. And put something rubber between the trollingmotor and glass. Also while you're at it, add an additional Velcro strap.


P.S. Rub the threads on the stainless bolt threw a bar of soap. This will keep them from locking up as easily.