Dinghy Question

[jrirvine]

I am considering using an electric transom mount trolling motor for a 3-4 person inflatable dinghy in lieu of the 5HP four stroke engine. Several manufacturers make these electric motors that now operate on 12V with 55 lbs of thrust and 5 hours use on a single battery charge. The reasoning here is that this motor would be much easier to transport, stow on board, attach to the dinghy and have no gas and oil mess to be concerned with. Also, I enjoy fly fishing and the electric motor would provide the stealth that is absolutely critical. Using the dinghy from an anchored boat makes an excellent fishing platform and can go where it would be impossible to wade or take most boats.

The disadvantages of electric vs. gas may be slower speed – especially in a current or with wave or choppy conditions and charging the battery, but this task could be done on board using the generator or at the slip with shore power.

Opinions / comments?[/img]

 

[Nehalennia II]

Sounds like a good idea to me. Especially if you set up a good quick release wiring harness like a electric fork lift which can charge while your big-boy is underway :thumbsup:

 

[boatrboy]

Here's my take on this;

1) w\electric you need to bring a charger if you are using your dingy for any length of time
2) the batteries are as heavy as a small gas motor, so you still have to handle some weight.
3) You can find gas every where, but you may not find an outlet that easy.
4) With a gas tank, I can look inside as see how much time I have, w/electric, it's anybodies guess :smt017
5) I can fix my gas engine, I can't repair an electric motor.

For all these reasons, I chose a 4 hp, 2 stroke. Its no rocket ship but It will plain my 240 airdeck when I am alone.

Just voicing my opinion but I hope this helps in your decesion.

Mark