I have a MinnKota Maxxum on my 18.5 Triton and it has finally met it's maker. I have had good luck with it and may go back to the same brand but, before I, do I'd like a little input from you guys and gals as to the brand you use and what ,if any, my options are. I have only seen "Minn Kota and Motor Guide.
What do you think? Will get one Friday. Can't wait to get back to the water.

well first what happened to it?

There is nothing on a Maxxum that is not repairable.

I'd buy only something with a composite shaft,..

Was in the hericane force winds on lake Fork and was holding my own when a GUST caught me and I went into the stumps and twisted the rod and tore off the motor at the base.
You are right about being fixed or repaired with a bent rod and some small electrical problems. Lake Fork Trolling Motor Repair has been a God send for those small repairs.

wow sounds like you did it well.

To answer the question. Minn Kota all the way.

I'd say stay with the one that brung ya. I'm running Motorguide but have had them both. If you have no complaints, why switch brands ?

I prefer motorguide have used both but MG seems to holdup good I have hit steps and broke the screws off butnever broke the whole thing yet I assume if u hit the right stump at the right speed it doesn't matter what you have.

I have had much better luck with MG - The Minn Kota I had was quieter and smoother, but was in the shop every few months. I replaced everything on the MK from the bushings to the head unit. And on the 3 MGs I have owned the only thing I have replaced is the prop pin and the prop.

But do what your gut tells you. I am sure there are plenty of MK users who had similar experiences with MG. But I will never buy another MK.

I've ran them both. The MG tour edition gave me nothing but problems. I switched to the Digital and was really happy with it. Since then bought another boat with a MK fortrex.....I don't think I'll go back.

+1

I'm running a MG 71lb on my Triton 18.5 and it holds really well in the wind but if I was starting from scratch I'd buy a Fortrex.

If you don't fish in tight areas, I would recommend a Terrova with Ipilot...great for working shorelines and staying out on structure/cover in galeforce winds

MinnKota.

GET A minkota fortrex

Going to go with what brung me. Called Lake Fork Trolling Motor Repair and ordered another MK.
Thanks to all that responded and will heed the advice of the majority.