You’ll get about 80 lb (36 kg) of thrust from this compact 12 V trolling motor, enough to push kayaks, dinghies, and small fishing boats up to about 7 km/h in calm conditions while drawing roughly 800 W at full power. You’ll appreciate five forward and three reverse gears, a three-blade anti-winding prop, retractable adjustable handle, and LED battery monitoring. Runtime depends on battery size and throttle; proper mounting and a quality deep‑cycle battery are key, and more details follow.
Some Key Takeaways
- 80 lb (36 kg) thrust is suitable for kayaks, dinghies and small boats under 4 m, giving steady pull and holding in light currents.
- 800 W (1.2 HP-equivalent) motor offers reliable power but requires a quality deep‑cycle 12 V battery for acceptable runtime.
- Top speed about 7 km/h under specified load; heavier loads, chop, or high throttle reduce speed and runtime.
- Controls include five forward/three reverse gears, retractable adjustable handle, and three‑blade anti‑winding prop for better low‑speed control.
- Clamp mount installation, correct shaft/prop height, and fused battery wiring are essential for safe, low‑noise operation and longevity.
Quick Verdict and Who This 80lb 12V Trolling Motor Is Best For
While it’s compact and lightweight, this 80 lb (36 kg) 12V trolling motor delivers surprisingly strong performance for small boats and kayaks, giving you up to 7 km/h under ideal conditions and a 1.2 HP-equivalent peak for reliable thrust. You’ll find it ideal users being anglers, weekend paddlers, and small-boat owners who need quiet, controllable propulsion without heavy installation. Consider purchase scenarios like replacing an old electric outboard, adding auxiliary power for fishing, or upgrading a plastic boat under 4 m. It’s practical, easy to mount, offers adjustable controls, and suits modest budgets seeking dependable, low-maintenance operation. This makes it a versatile choice for kayakers who use skeg-equipped kayaks to improve tracking and straight-line stability, especially when adding essential gear.
Real-World Performance: Speed, Thrust, Runtime, and Handling
Now let’s look at how this 80 lb (36 kg) trolling motor performs on the water, focusing on speed, thrust, runtime, and handling so you know what to expect in everyday use. You’ll find top speed near 7 km/h with the specified load and calm water; expect slower speeds with heavier loads or chop. Thrust feels strong for small craft, keeping heading in light currents. Runtime depends on battery capacity and throttle—higher gears drain faster and can cause battery heating if sustained. The three-blade anti-winding prop reduces propeller cavitation and improves low-speed control; steering is predictable with the adjustable handle and mount. This motor is well-suited for motor-ready fishing kayaks and beginner paddlers looking to upgrade their setup.
Key Specs Explained (36kg Thrust, 800W Motor, 5F/3R Gears, Battery Needs)
Because the motor’s 36 kg (80 lb) thrust and 800 W rating define how it moves your boat, you should understand what those numbers mean in real use: the 36 kg thrust indicates steady-pull capability for small kayaks and dinghies—enough to hold course in light currents and push a 2.3 m boat to the quoted 7 km/h under specified test conditions—while the 800 W (≈1.2 HP peak) motor rating tells you about power draw, heat generation, and how aggressively the unit will tax your battery at higher gears. You’ll match battery capacity to expected run time, monitor motor efficiency and avoid overstressing components. Five forward and three reverse gears give usable speed steps; prioritize gear durability if you often shift under load. Consider pairing the motor with a reliable marine GPS and mounting setup to ensure safe navigation for kayakers.
Installation, Controls, and Adjustability You Need to Know
Having matched thrust and battery to your boat in the previous section, you’ll next focus on getting the motor mounted, wired, and set up so it performs reliably and safely. Use proven mounting techniques: position the clamp on reinforced gunwale area, tighten within the 9 cm bolt gap, and verify height so the 20 cm propeller clears water at idle and cruise. Route battery leads to minimize chafe, fuse close to battery, and secure connections. Adjust the suspension bracket for shaft angle and trim. Test the retractable control handle for length and rotation; good handle ergonomics reduce fatigue during long runs. For stability while fishing or holding position, consider appropriate kayak anchors sized for your kayak and conditions.
Pros, Cons, and Final Buying Recommendation
While this 80 lb/800 W trolling motor delivers surprising power and practical adjustability for small boats, you’ll want to weigh its strengths—compact 1.2 HP equivalent output, three-blade anti-winding prop, five forward/three reverse speeds, adjustable shaft and handle, and a two-year warranty—against limitations like the 12 V input (which limits run time unless you pair a high-capacity battery), the need for assembly and separate battery purchase, and its suitability confined to boats under 4 m and depths over 1.5 m. You’ll appreciate solid thrust, LED battery monitoring, and easy noise reduction via proper mounting; prioritize battery maintenance and choose a quality deep-cycle 12 V battery. Overall, buy if you need affordable, portable thrust for small craft and will manage battery care; skip it if you need long runs or larger vessels. Consider pairing it with power pole gear to improve anchoring and stability on shallow water outings.
Some Questions Answered
Is This Motor Waterproof for Saltwater Use Without Special Coatings?
No, you shouldn’t assume it’s waterproof for saltwater use without special coatings. The motor uses aluminum alloy, ABS and a pure copper motor, which resist water but aren’t immune to saltwater corrosion. You should add sacrificial anodes, rinse thoroughly after each use, and consider extra protective coatings or marine-grade paint. Regular inspection of seals, fasteners and the propeller will keep performance reliable and extend service life in saltwater.
Can I Tow a Small Inflatable Behind the Kayak With This Motor?
Yes — you can tow a small inflatable behind your kayak with this motor, but mind the tow rope and weight capacity. Use a strong, low-stretch tow rope and secure it to the kayak’s reinforced point. Stay within the motor’s load limits (boat length/width and recommended passenger/weight guidance) to avoid strain. Monitor battery and motor temperature, use low gears to start, and keep speeds modest to prevent cavitation or loss of control.
Are Spare Propellers or Replacement Parts Readily Available?
Yes — spare props and replacement shafts are generally available through the manufacturer and aftermarket sellers. You’ll find 3-blade prop assemblies and drive-shaft parts compatible with 800W/12V models; check prop diameter (20 cm) and main pole length (91 cm) to match. Order from PDTHADP or reputable suppliers, confirm part numbers, and keep your serial/model handy. You’ll also want spare hardware and seals for quick on-water repairs.
How Noisy Is the Motor at Idle and Top Speed in Decibels?
At idle you’ll hear about 50–55 dB; at top speed expect roughly 70–75 dB. You’ll notice low-frequency sound levels from the pure‑copper motor and higher tones as RPMs rise. Vibration patterns stay moderate thanks to aluminum alloy housing and anti‑winding prop, but you’ll feel increased shaft and clamp vibration at full throttle. Use rubber mounts and a battery isolation strap to reduce noise and dampen remaining vibration patterns.
Does the Warranty Cover Corrosion or Water Damage Incidents?
No — the warranty specifics generally exclude corrosion and water-damage incidents. You’ll get a two-year manufacturer warranty covering defects, but corrosion exclusions and damage from water immersion, saltwater exposure, improper sealing, or misuse usually aren’t covered. You should document issues promptly, follow maintenance guidance, and contact the vendor for warranty claims and the voluntary 30-day return guarantee if you spot defects early. Keep photos and purchase records.
