Pelican Catch Kayak: PWM modification

Is the PWM to regulate voltage or something for the motor?  I heard a few times that some batteries don't work with trolling motors, but wasn't sure what the limiting factor is.

Is the PWM to regulate voltage or something for the motor?  I heard a few times that some batteries don't work with trolling motors, but wasn't sure what the limiting factor is.

True PWM doesn't regulate voltage but use a 555 timer chip to regulate the on/off cycles.  This will give us infinite speed control and increase battery usage time.

Here is a simple diagram of a PWM using the 555 timer chip...

Aaahhh OK, I missed that in your last update. 

Took the kayak out for a test ride after the PWM modification.   Trolled from 8am to 2pm and my battery still has 50% left.  Caught a few Jumbo Jacksmells but no Halibut love.

Sounds awesome!  You can tow me in anytime Sonny! 

Right on!  What is your cruising/trolling speed?  Did the PWM make a difference in battery life?  I will probably add a trolling motor to a tandem Perception this summer, just to make trips with my son a little easier for both of us - you posted some good info here to help get set up!

Right on!  What is your cruising/trolling speed?  Did the PWM make a difference in battery life?  I will probably add a trolling motor to a tandem Perception this summer, just to make trips with my son a little easier for both of us - you posted some good info here to help get set up!

I was trolling around 2mph most of the time and about 3.5mph moving between spots. Top speed is around 5 - 7 mph depending on tide, wave,  and wind direction.  Before the PWM modification I only got 25% of battery juice left after 5 hours of trolling.

Right on!  What is your cruising/trolling speed?  Did the PWM make a difference in battery life?  I will probably add a trolling motor to a tandem Perception this summer, just to make trips with my son a little easier for both of us - you posted some good info here to help get set up!

I was trolling around 2mph most of the time and about 3.5mph moving between spots. Top speed is around 5 - 7 mph depending on tide, wave,  and wind direction.  Before the PWM modification I only got 25% of battery juice left after 5 hours of trolling.

That's awesome - very worth while modification!

Good speeds too, would be great for all the trolling I do. Thanks for the info!

Since the new 50 Fathom depth rule later this year,  I upgrading my kayak from trolling motor to Suzuki 2.5HP outboard to help me getting to fishing ground faster.  Hope this works out.

And the Sidekicks kayak cart for quick launch since it's on sale for Father's day 

Since the new 50 Fathom depth rule later this year,  I upgrading my kayak from trolling motor to Suzuki 2.5HP outboard to help me getting to fishing ground faster.  Hope this works out.

Very cool. I'll be interesting to see how fast you can (comfortably) go with that setup...

Sweet! That's a nice looking outboard! Definitely looking forward to your reports!