I've got an 11 foot inflatable that can hold a 3 hp motor on it. All of the trolling motors I've seen are rated in thrust. Does anyone know how much thrust a 3 hp motor has? What about a 5 hp motor? Thanks Mike
#1709, "RE: horsepower to thrust conversion" In response to Reply # 0
I don't know a conversion, but no troll motor--unless it's one of those 36 volt 107# thrust Motorguides--will ever out power any gas outboard. The main concern is weight. What they are saying is that any outboard over 3 horse is too much weight for the boat (probably too much power as well--but mostly a weight issue). Weightwise for trollers is not an issue as the units basically weigh the same. You start getting into probs once it's a 24 volt and higher unit due to weight of all those batteries. I would get a troll motor that gives the highest thrust for a 12 volt motor. The battery weight is the main concern and I think you'll be safe with only one--check the weight limit for the boat. Be sure to stow it in one of those poly plastic battery boxes with the strap mounted to your floorboard or a piece of plywood.