We carry extra batteries on board for that very reason. The remote supposedly floats. Haven't tested it yet though.

I treat it like the batteries in the fire alarms inside my house. I change batteries out if they need it or not. Change the battery out more than once a year if start to see a delayed response.

I carry three only cost a couple of bucks apeice.
Johnny

This is the only down fall I have noticed. I almost ripped min off the first time I put my boat in the water. I have to change the way I launch my boat. I haven't had to do it my self yet. That could be interesting. They way it hangs over the front of the boat allows it to hit the front roller.

Someone that does metal fab outta make a protection guard that mounts under the unit to protect it from docks and rollers. Maybe something that locks into place but can by turned to the left to allow deployment. Hmmmmmm. Million $$ idea? Lol

what size battery does it use?

I think a 2032?

The remotes use a cr2450 battery.

And the remotes def. are not water PROOF. I've dropped one in and jumped in with one attached to my waist (had to jump in super quick to not loose a big cobia) and lost both. The first one hit the water and wasn't in for 2 seconds and the water ruined it.

I bought the foot control with mine in case some thing happens to the remote.

That is unfortunate you would think they would make them water proof or at least fairly water resistant--but then again they wouldn't sell as many remotes that way. I was going to have mine out this weekend but the plug that goes to my TM receptacle on my boat is not sold at Cabelas or Academy(I now have 3 plugs I have to return.) Had to order it out of Wisconsin. Went by Boris today but they are closed on Mondays for the winter--bummer. Thanks SJ for the suggestion I am going to buy some extra batteries.

Oh yeah, forgot to mention that you can put a little clear silicone around the rubber seal and seal it up. Water only gets in between where the two pieces meet up. (unless you have a crack in on the buttons which can happen after a bunch of use).

And I finally got smart enough to keep an extra battery on the boat, took long enough...

I still love it though, I point towards a group of birds and walk to the back of the boat and rig up, it is worth the pain I suppose.

By the way had to go to the camera department at wal mart to get them.They are not like my wraist remote that took a watch battery.
Johnny

gborg,

I just added the I-pilot to my existing minn kota V2. It did not change the footprint of my unit at all. Its only a 54 lb unit, but love it on my 17' Grizzly Tracker. Anchor lock is great. Great when you break a line and need to re-tie, or when your kid needs help and you don't want to move from your spot.