I’ve promised a few people with classic whalers that I would post this for a while, but keep forgetting. Well, here it is. I’m embarrassed to post my workmanship as compared to others on this site (cough, cough Larry). But, anyway I’m proud of designing this and it’s stood up to 5 years of abuse and still going strong. I’ve even duplicated it on a friends Whaler once.
This is a post from 2010 on Whaler Central.
I wanted a trolling motor on my 1966 13, so I did some research on what others have done. So I decided to make a mount and wanted to share it with others because it really turned out great.
My design goals:
- Had to be a very solid platform
- Completely non-corrosive materials, as it is used exclusively in saltwater near Charleston, SC
- Clean design and minimal size so it can be removed when on family outings.
I decided to use Starboard for the platform, or rather, HDPE (high density polyethylene) which is the same material, and less than half price if you buy it from McMaster Carr. I bought 3/4 thk sheet.
My new trolling motor is a 55lb Minn-Kota Riptide with tiller handle and 42 in shaft. Its pretty much their entry level saltwater setup. I went ahead and got the quick disconnect accessory and am glad I did. The puck will be mounted to the platform.
To stiffen up the platform I fashioned a pedestal from two stainless steel rail bases. the post was intended to be stainless but I had trouble finding a piece of 7/8 OD in just a 7in length (without ordering it), so when I set about making it, I found some 7/8 PVC in the garage, and cut some with the intention of using it for fitting. Well, after trying it, I decided to keep it that way for a couple reasons. First, due to the weird angles of the 13 bow the post bases are not exactly lined up, so the PVC gives a little flex. Also, I think it gives a little shock absorption, ie no rattling. Believe me, its very
But I’ll choose function over beauty every time. It works and it also fits the style of the boat. I like it 