MINN KOTA FORTREX User manual

FORTREX®
BOW-MOUNT TROLLING MOTOR
Installation Instructions

2 | minnkotamotors.com ©2018 Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.
INTRODUCTION
Made by Minn Kota
Johnson Outdoors
Marine Electronics, Inc.
121 Power Drive
Mankato, MN 56001 USA
Trolling Motors
Produced in 2012
Fortrex 80/45
MODEL 1368660
SER NO M365 MK12345
EXAMPLE
NOTICE: The serial number on your Fortrex is located
near the Momentary Switch underneath the side of the
Foot Pedal.
THANK YOU
Thank you for choosing Minn Kota. We believe that you should spend more time fishing and less time positioning your boat. That’s why
we build the smartest, toughest, most intuitive trolling motors on the water. Every aspect of a Minn Kota trolling motor is thought out
and rethought until it’s good enough to bear our name. Countless hours of research and testing provide you the Minn Kota advantage
that can truly take you “Anywhere. Anytime.” We don’t believe in shortcuts. We are Minn Kota. And we are never done helping you
catch more fish.
REGISTRATION
Remember to keep your receipt and immediately register
your trolling motor. A registration card is included with your
motor or you can complete registration on our website at
minnkotamotors.com.
SERIAL NUMBER
Your Minn Kota 11-character serial number is very important. It
helps to determine the specific model and year of manufacture.
When contacting Consumer Service or registering your product,
you will need to know your product’s serial number. We
recommend that you write the serial number down so that you
have it available for future reference.
MOTOR INFORMATION (For Consumer Reference Only)
Model:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Serial Number: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Purchase Date: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Store Where Purchased:___________________________________________________________________________________________________
NOTICE: Do not return your Minn Kota motor to your retailer. Your retailer is not authorized to repair or replace this unit. You may
obtain service by: calling Minn Kota at [phone]; returning your motor to the Minn Kota Factory Service Center; sending
or taking your motor to any Minn Kota authorized service center. A list of authorized service centers is available on our website, at
minnkotamotors.com. Please include proof of purchase, serial number and purchase date for warranty service with any of the above
options.

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SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Please thoroughly read the user manual. Follow all instructions and heed all safety and cautionary notices. Use of this motor is only
permitted for persons that have read and understood these user instructions. Minors may use this motor only under adult supervision.
WARNING
You are responsible for the safe and prudent operation of your vessel. We have designed your Minn Kota product to be an accurate
and reliable tool that will enhance boat operation and improve your ability to catch fish. This product does not relieve you from the
responsibility for safe operation of your boat. You must avoid hazards to navigation and always maintain a permanent watch so you can
respond to situations as they develop. You must always be prepared to regain manual control of your boat. Learn to operate your Minn
Kota product in an area free from hazards and obstacles.
WARNING
Never run the motor out of the water, as this may result in injuries from the rotating propeller. The motor should be disconnected from
the power source when it is not in use or is off the water. When connecting the power-supply cables of the motor to the battery, ensure
that they are not kinked or subject to chafe and route them in such a way that persons cannot trip over them. Before using the motor
make sure that the insulation of the power cables is not damaged. Disregarding these safety precautions may result in electric shorts
of battery(s) and/or motor. Always disconnect motor from battery(s) before cleaning or checking the propeller. Avoid submerging the
complete motor as water may enter the lower unit through control head and shaft. If the motor is used while water is present in the
lower unit considerable damage to the motor can occur. This damage will not be covered by warranty.
WARNING
Take care that neither you nor other persons approach the turning propeller too closely, neither with body parts nor with objects.
The motor is powerful and may endanger or injure you or others. While the motor is running watch out for persons swimming and for
floating objects. Persons who lack the ability to run the motor or whose reactions are impaired by alcohol, drugs, medication, or other
substances are not permitted to use this motor. This motor is not suitable for use in strong currents. The constant noise pressure level
of the motor during use is less than 70dB(A). The overall vibration level does not exceed 2,5 m/sec2.
WARNING
When stowing or deploying the motor, keep fingers clear of all hinge and pivot points and all moving parts. In the event of unexpected
operation, remove power leads from the battery.
WARNING
It is recommended to only use Johnson Outdoors approved accessories with your Minn Kota motor. Using non-approved accessories
including to mount or control your motor may cause damage, unexpected motor operation and injury. Be sure to use the product and
approved accessories, including remotes, safely and in the manner directed to avoid accidental or unexpected motor operation. Keep
all factory installed parts in place including motor and accessory covers, enclosures and guards.

4 | minnkotamotors.com ©2018 Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.
KNOW YOUR BOAT
Keel
Bow
Hull
Bow
Stern
Stern
Port
Port Starboard
Starboard
Gunwale
Gunwale
Transom
Inboard
Outboard

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INSTALLATION
INSTALLING THE FORTREX
Your new Fortrex comes with everything you’ll need to directly install it to the boat. This motor can be directly mounted to the boat or
coupled with a Minn Kota quick release bracket for ease of mounting and removal. For installation with a quick release bracket, refer
to the installation instructions provided with the bracket. For compatible quick release mounting bracket, please visit minnkotamotors.
com. To install the motor directly to the boat, please follow the instructions provided in this manual. Please review the parts list,
mounting considerations and tools needed for installation prior to getting started. For additional product support and to locate your
nearest dealer, please visit minnkotamotors.com.
3
4
5
6
10
11
13
14
15
12
9
8
7
Item /
Assembly Part # Description Qty.
3✖MOTOR ASSEMBLY 1
A2994887 INSTALLATION HARDWARE BAG ASSEMBLY 1
42263468 1/4 - 20 X 2.5" SS PPH SCREW 6
52263103 1/4 - 20 SS NYLOCK NUT 6
62261713 1/4 FLAT 18-8 SS WASHER 6
AA 1378132 80# THRUST PROP KIT 1
BB 1378160 112# THRUST PROP KIT 1
72341160 PROP-WW2 (4.5)W/ADP.RING 1
82091701 WASHER-PROP (LARGE) 1
92093101 NUT-PROP NYLOC,LG, MX101 3/8 SS 1
10 2262658 PIN-DRIVE 1" 3/16" S/S 1
B2991925 pBRACKET STABLZR ARM ASY (SUB) 1
11 22655100 BUMPER STABILIZER 1
12 2263624 STABILIZER ROD 1
13 2263107 NYLON HEX NUT 3/4 - 10 UNC 1
14 2281829 BRACKET 1
15 2260221 VINYL CAP 1
16 2223100 NUT 5/16-18 NYLOCS SS 2
17 2263422 BOLT 5/16-18 X 1" SS CAP SCREW 2
18 2281700 5/16 "ID X .457 OD HIGH COLLAR LOCK WASHER 2
20 2773806 STRAP, HOLD DOWN 1
C2994912 BAG ASSY, FORTREX MOUNT HDW 1
25 2283410 SCREW-1/4-20 X .500" PFH 2
26 2281710 SPACER, GAS SPRING, FORTREX 2
27 2282610 PIN, UPPER SHOCK 1
p2287110 INSTALLATION GUIDE, FORTREX 1
D2991650 MNT FW 80# 45”, 112#/HC 52” *80 LB 45”* *112 LB 52”* 1
E2991652 MNT ASM FTX FW 80# 52/62” *80 LB 52”* *80 LB 62”* 1
F2991653 MNT ASM FTX FW 112# 45” *112 LB 45”* 1
G2991654 MNT ASM FTX FW 112# 52” *112 LB 52”* 1
32 2211415 ÌCABLE-EXTENSION, PD/AP 110" *PRE-INSTALLED* 1
490507-2 âCABLE, ADP-INT MDI 14 M12-174" *PRE-INSTALLED* 1
A
BB
AA
B
D
E
F
G
17
25
16
27
18
26
20
32 C
INSTALLATION PARTS LIST
pNot shown on Parts Diagram.
✖This part is included in an assembly and cannot be ordered individually.
ÌOnly available with models factory installed with Universal Sonar.
âOnly available with models factory installed with Built-in MEGA Down Imaging.
pThe Bow-Mount Stabilizer Assembly is not required or included on the 80lb 45”
Fortrex.

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ASSEMBLY OF MOTOR TO MOUNT
• #2 Phillips Screwdriver
• (2) #3 Phillips Screwdriver
• 1/4" Allen Wrench
• Drill
• 9/32" Drill Bit
• 7/16" Box End Wrench
• A person to help with
installation
• Torque Wrench
• File or Sandpaper
• Hack Saw
• Marker or Pencil
• 1/8" Flat Screwdriver
• 1/8" Allen Wrench
• Loctite
a. Place the Mount on an elevated, level surface such
as a workbench or the tailgate of a pickup. The
Mount, as removed from the box, should be in the
deployed position.
b. Remove the 5/16" Allen Screw and Lock Washer
from the Mount using the 1/4" Allen Wrench. The
5/16" Allen Screw is located on the opposite end
of the mount from the hinge that opens and closes
when the mount is stowed and deployed.
It is recommended that the motor be mounted as close to the keel or centerline of the boat
as possible. Make sure the area under the mounting location is clear to drill holes and install
nuts and washers. Make sure the motor rest is positioned far enough beyond the edge of the
boat. The motor must not encounter any obstructions as it is lowered into the water or raised
into the boat when stowed and deployed. Consider a quick release or adapter bracket with the
installation of your motor. To view a list of accessories, please visit minnkotamotors.com.
Assembly of Motor to Mount
Allen Screw with
Lock Washer
Mount
Deployed
Stowed
View accessories
available for your
trolling motor at
minnkotamotors.com.
MOUNTING CONSIDERATIONS
TOOLS AND RESOURCES REQUIRED
INSTALLATION
1
NOTICE: This motor weighs approximately 55 lbs.
We recommend having a second person help with
the installation.
End Links
Allen Screw
Safety
Latch
Lock Washer
Mount

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INSTALLING THE BOWGUARD
2c. Align the Keyways on the inside of the Bowguard
with the End Links on the Mount. Lower the motor
assembly straight down until seated.
d. Install the 5/16” Allen Screw and the Lock Washer
and tighten to 10-12 ft/lbs.
NOTICE: The 5/16” Allen Screw must be tight
when installed and periodically tightened to 10-
12 ft/lbs. This will allow the motor to be stowed
properly. Tighten the Allen Screw when the Mount
is in the deployed position.
Mount
Allen Screw
Lock Washer
Pull Grip and Rope
Keyways
Bowguard
During installation, it is recommended to mount the motor to the boat before installing the Gas Spring Pin. The Gas Spring Pin is installed
in the Gas Spring Cylinder. The Gas Spring Cylinder is located on the inside of the Outer Arm, which is a part of the Mount. At this point in
the installation, the Gas Spring Cylinder is not fully installed and may move around inside the Mount when stowing and deploying the motor.
The Gas Spring Cylinder can become damaged while deploying the motor and the damage will prevent the Lift-Assist feature from operating
correctly once fully assembled. Make sure that the Gas Spring Cylinder does not get damaged in the Mount.
WARNING
Carefully lower the Bowguard into place to avoid creating a
pinch point between the Bowguard and Mount.
Installing the Bowguard

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INSTALLING THE BOWGUARD
d. The Mount can be installed on either the Port
or Starboard side of the boat based on personal
preference. Test the placement of the Hold-Down
Strap to be sure it can hold the Mount as placed.
The placement of the buckle on the Hold-Down
Strap either inboard or outboard is based on personal
preference. The hook and loop on the fastener should
be face down for the Hold-Down Strap to function.
2
1
Deck of Boat
Deck of Boat
Keel
Keel
Mount
Mount
Hold Down
Strap
Hold Down
Strap
a. Review the mounting considerations at the beginning
of the Installation section for proper placement.
Place the Mount as close to the centerline or keel of
the boat as possible, with the motor in the stowed
position, on the deck of the boat. Check
placement
with the motor in the stowed and deployed positions.
ITEM(S) NEEDED
#20 x 1
b. Stow the motor into the flat position by pulling
the Pull Grip and Rope to disengage the latch bar,
allowing the motor to fold into the flat position.
c. Place the Hold-Down Strap (Item #20) under the
base of the Mount Plate so that it is below the Mount
when placed.
CAUTION
The Gas Spring Cylinder can become damaged in the Mount
while stowing or deploying the motor because it is not yet
fully installed. Damage will prevent the Lift-Assist feature
from operating correctly once fully assembled. Make sure
that the Gas Spring Cylinder does not get damaged by
keeping it inside the Outer Arm of the Mount.

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INSTALLING THE BOWGUARD
NOTICE: If Pattern 2 is used, the right side plate
must be removed to access the mounting holes in the
base of the Mount.
e. Check the placement with the motor in the deployed
position. When the motor is in the deployed position,
make sure that the Shaft is 1-1/2" out past the
Gunwale of the boat. The lower unit, when stowed
and deployed must not encounter any obstructions.
f. Check the placement of the Hold-Down Strap when
the motor is in the stowed and deployed position and
adjust if necessary.
1-1/2"
Minimum
Gunwale Shaft
3
4
Pattern 1
Pattern 2
Bow
Hold Down Strap
g. Once the Mount is in position, determine which bolt
pattern to use. The bolt pattern selected will depend
on the deck space available on your boat.
h. It is recommended to mark at least 4 of the 6 holes
in the base of the Mount and to have two bolts on
each side that are located the farthest apart on the
Mount Plate. Ideal installation would allow for 6
bolts to be used, with a minimum of 4.
i. Drill through the deck of the boat using a 9/32" Drill
Bit on the marked locations.
j. Be sure the Hold-Down Strap under the base of the
Mount Plate sits between the second and third set
of bolts according to the mounting pattern selected.
Double check that it can close around the Mount
when stowed.
WARNING
For installation, do not remove the shaft/motor from the
Bowguard. The Bowguard spring is under tension and must
always remain secured.
WARNING
When the motor is being transported, on water or land, it is
important to place the motor completely out of water. The
motor should be positioned up close to the Bowguard. Always
secure the Depth Collar Knob for added security during
transport and then secure the Hold Down Strap. This provides a
secure stow and holds the motor in place during transportation
when it is subject to high levels of shock and vibration. Failure
to secure the motor may result in injury or damage to the unit.

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INSTALLING THE GAS SPRING PIN
a. Position the motor to the stowed position with the
Pull Grip and Rope to disengage the latch bar,
allowing the motor to fold into a flat position.
b. Once in the stowed or flat position, the Gas Spring
Pin and Spacers can be installed.
Gas Spring Cylinder
Proper Alignment
Outer Arm
Outer Arm
k. Put a 1/4-20 x 2 1/2" Screw (Item #4) in each of the
drilled locations. The Screw should pass through the
Mount Plate and the boat deck.
l. Place a Flat Washer (Item #5) and then a Nylock Nut
(Item #6) at the end of each screw as shown and
secure. Make sure all hardware is secure.
ITEM(S) NEEDED
#5 x 6
Screw
Deck
Flat Washer
Nylock Nut
5
#6 x 6 #4 x 6
NOTICE: To prevent seizing of the stainless steel
hardware, do not use high speed installation tools.
Wetting the screws or applying an anti-seize may
help prevent seizing. If possible, secure all sets of
mounting bolts, nuts and washers.
Installing the Gas Spring Pin
WARNING
The gas assist lift mechanism in this unit is under high spring pressure when the motor is in the deployed position. Do not remove
the Bowguard from the mount without disconnecting one end of the gas spring. Failure to do this can create a condition where
accidental pulling of the Pull Grip and Rope may cause the mount to spring open rapidly, striking anyone or anything in the direct
path.
1

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PLACING THE BOW-MOUNT STABILIzER
c. Locate the upper Gas Spring Pin (Item #27) and
Spacers (Item #26) in the bag assembly. Align the end
of the Gas Spring with the holes in the Outer Arm.
d. Install the Gas Spring Pin through the Outer Arm,
then through a Spacer, the end of the Gas Spring
Cylinder and another Spacer.
e. Install one Phillips Screw (Item #25) on each end
of the Gas Spring Pin and secure with two #3
Phillips screwdrivers.
f. Tighten Phillips Screws until the heads are flush with
the Outer Arm.
NOTICE: The Bow-Mount Stabilizer is not required or
included on the 80lb 45” Fortrex.
ITEM(S) NEEDED
#25 x 2 #26 x 2 #27 x 1
Phillips Screw
Phillips Screw
Phillips Screw
Spacer
Spacer
Spacer
Spacer
Gas Spring Pin
Gas Spring
Cylinder
Gas Spring
Cylinder
Outer Arm
Outer Arm Outer Arm
Outer Arm
Gas Spring
2
The Bow-Mount Stabilizer Bracket is used to stabilize the
Bowguard and reduce bouncing when the motor is stowed and
transported. Attention to detail is needed for successful
installation of the stabilizer. We recommend to have the stabilizer
bracket installed by a qualified marine installer.
Placing the Bow-Mount Stabilizer
CAUTION
Adjusting the Aluminum Rod too tightly removes the end play needed for proper latch pin engagement and doing so could prevent
the mount from fully latching in the stowed position. Improper latching may cause damage. If installed correctly, the tip of the
Aluminum Rod should lift off of the boat deck about 1/4” without the mount unlatching. Cutting the Aluminum Rod too short will
cause inadequate support of the mount. Lack of mount support may cause damage.

12 | minnkotamotors.com ©2018 Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.
PLACING THE BOW-MOUNT STABILIzER
a. Place the motor in the stowed position.
b. Un-thread the Aluminum Rod (Item #13) from the
Stabilizer Bracket (Item #12) by removing the Top
Bumper (Item #11) and unscrewing the bracket.
Also remove the Bottom Bumper (Item #15). Keep
the Jam Nut (Item #14) in place.
Top Bumper
Stabilizer
Bracket
Jam Nut
Aluminum Rod
Bottom
Bumper
ITEM(S) NEEDED
#11 x 1 #12 x 1 #13 x 1 #14 x 1 #15 x 1
NOTICE: The Bow-Mount Stabilizer Bracket can be
installed on the left or right side of the Bowguard.
NOTICE: The two Lock Washers (Item #16) are not used
when installing on the Fortrex.
#16 x 2
1
c. Determine the desired orientation of the Stabilizer
Bracket and attach it to the bottom of the Bowguard.
ITEM(S) NEEDED
#17 x 2 #18 x 2
2
d. Put the 5/16” Cap Screws (Item #17) through the
Stabilizer Bracket and the mounting holes on the
Bowguard. Secure the 5/16” Cap Screws with the
5/16-18 Nylock Nut. The Nylock Nuts fit into a hex
pocket on the inside of the Bowguard behind the
spring. Secure with a 1/4” Allen Wrench. Tighten to
10 ft lb.
Bowguard
Cap Screw
Nylock Nut
Stabilizer
Bracket

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PLACING THE BOW-MOUNT STABILIzER
e. Measure the proper length of the Aluminum Rod by
standing it, with the threaded end down, onto the
deck surface so that it sits vertically right next to the
Stabilizer Bracket.
f. Mark the Aluminum Rod with a pencil or marker 3/4"
past the top of the Stabilizer Bracket.
CAUTION
Cutting the Aluminum Rod too short will cause inadequate
support of the mount. Lack of mount support may cause
damage.
3
g. Cut the Aluminum Rod with a Hack Saw at the
mark. Round the cut edge of the rod with a file or
sandpaper to remove any sharp edges.
Stabilizer
Bracket
Aluminum Rod
Jam Nut
3/4"
h. Replace the Bottom Bumper on the Aluminum Rod,
opposite from the threads.
i. Thread the Aluminum Rod into the Stabilizer Bracket
with the Bottom Bumper towards the boat deck.
j. Adjust the Aluminum Rod up or down in the
Stabilizer Bracket so that the Bottom Bumper just
touches the support surface.
4
CAUTION
Adjusting the Aluminum Rod too tightly removes the end
play needed for proper latch pin engagement and doing so
could prevent the mount from fully latching in the stowed
position. Improper latching may cause damage. If installed
correctly, the tip of the Aluminum Rod should lift off of the
boat deck about 1/4” without the mount unlatching.
Stabilizer Bracket
Jam Nut
Bottom Bumper
Aluminum Rod
1/4"

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MOUNTING THE FOOT PEDAL
k. Once in the correct position, tighten the Jam Nut
upwards against the Stabilizer Bracket. This will
prevent the Aluminum Rod from turning.
l. Install the Top Bumper if there are threads exposed
on the Aluminum Rod above the Stabilizer Bracket.
5
Stabilizer
Bracket
Jam Nut
Top Bumper
Aluminum Rod
We recommend securing the Foot Pedal to the boat deck to
prevent it from being damaged during transport and to make
motor operation more efficient. It is recommended to use the
Mounting Holes on the Foot Pedal for a secure mount. The Foot
Pedal has three Mounting Holes. One Mounting Hole is located
under the Heel End of the Foot Pedal. The other two are located
under the Toe End of the Foot Pedal. We recommend using a
1/8" or 3/16" diameter screw and only tighten enough to slightly
compress the Bumper Pads underneath the Foot Pedal.
Toe End
Heel End
Mounting
Holes
Bumper Pad
Mounting
Hole
Mounting the Foot Pedal

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IDENTIFYING TROLLING MOTOR FEATURES BY THEIR ASSOCIATED CABLES
IDENTIFYING TROLLING MOTOR FEATURES BY THEIR ASSOCIATED CABLES
Four Pin Connector
Universal Sonar
Cable from
Control Head
Locking Collar
Fourteen Pin Connector
Pedal Control Sleeve
Assembly from Control Head
Your trolling motor may be pre-installed with Built-In MEGA Down
Imaging OR Universal Sonar. These features require cables to be
connected to an output device. These connections are present on
the trolling motor and have cables that exit from the Foot Pedal.
These connection cables, if present, will exit the Foot Pedal in
the same location as the power cables. To better identify cables
present, refer to the diagrams below that detail what the Built-In
MEGA Down Imaging and Universal Sonar cable connectors look
like.
Built-In MEGA
Down Imaging from
Foot Pedal
Built-In MEGA Down Imaging Universal Sonar
Please follow these instructions for routing any and all of the cables present for any of the pre-installed features that may come with
your trolling motor. This routing should be followed no matter the type of connection cable present. If you are unsure of the cables
present, please review the “Identifying Trolling Motor Features By Their Associated Cables” section of these Installation Instructions.
ROUTING CONNECTION CABLES
a. Locate the Built-in MEGA Down Imaging or
Universal Sonar cable, at the base of the Foot
Pedal.
CAUTION
Not following the recommended wire routing for the Built-in
MEGA Down Imaging or Universal Sonar cable, if equipped,
may cause damage to the product and void your product
warranty. Route cables away from pinch points or other
areas that may cause them to bend in sharp angles. Routing
the cables in any way other than directed may cause
damage to the cables by being pinched or severed.
1
NOTICE: Universal Sonar connector shown for
illustration purposes.
Toe End
Power Cables
Connection
Cable
Power Cable
Foot Pedal
Built-in MEGA
Down Imaging or
Universal Sonar
Heel End

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ROUTING CONNECTION CABLES
b. Identify where the Built-in MEGA Down Imaging or
Universal Sonar Cable needs to be connected and
route along an established routing system in your
boat.
c. Use cable ties to loosely secure cables if needed.
2
CAUTION
Improperly securing the Connection Cables may cause damage
to the product and void your product warranty. Do not over
tighten the cable ties as it may damage the wires.
NOTICE: After the cable(s) exit(s) the Foot
Pedal, it should be routed through an established
routing system on the boat, in an area with minimal
interference. Power cables or other elements that may
produce interference for the sonar signals. Inspect
the selected route carefully to ensure that there are
no sharp edges, obstacles, or obstructions that may
damage the cables.
Power Cables
Foot Pedal
Built-in MEGA
Down Imaging or
Universal Sonar

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FEATURE OVERVIEW AND CONNECTING THE CABLES
NOTICE: You can only view MEGA Down Imaging with a MEGA DI or MEGA SI HELIX G2N or G3N Series model and a required
adapter, or with any SOLIX Series model. The built-in transducer cannot supply MEGA Down Imaging to Humminbird models that do
not already have the capability. f you have a G2/G2N or a G3/G3N HELIX that is not a MEGA SI or MEGA DI model, you will still get
2D CHIRP Digital Sonar from the transducer. Built-In MEGA DI is not supported by HELIX G1 models or other brands of fish finders.
Built-In MEGA Down Imaging delivers nearly 3X the output of standard Side Imaging®, and takes fishfinding into the megahertz frequency
for the very first time. The Minn Kota flagship families of trolling motors, including Ultrex, Ulterra, Terrova, and Fortrex, now include
Built-In MEGA Down Imaging sonar, the clearest imaging available only from Humminbird. With Humminbird MEGA imaging sonar built
right into the trolling motor, you now have a crystal clear view of what’s directly beneath the boat, without having to manage all of the
cables that come with external transducers. The Built-In MEGA DI transducer is only available on new models equipped from the factory
and cannot be added to an existing trolling motor.
The Built-in MEGA DI transducer will provide both MEGA Down Imaging and 2D CHIRP Digital Sonar to select Humminbird models. All
Built-In MEGA DI trolling motors, will come “Solix Ready” out of the box. An adapter cable accessory (MKR-MDI-1 1852085 or MKR-
MDI-2 1852086) is available for purchase that will allow the connection of any compatible Humminbird Helix fish finder. The MKR-MDI-1
is used on Helix 8, 9, 10 and 12 models. The MKR-MDI-2 is used for Humminbird Helix 7 models only. See the Built-In MEGA Down
Imaging Compatibility chart online.
Built-In MEGA Down Imaging
FEATURE OVERVIEW AND CONNECTING THE CABLES
The cable(s) from the Foot Pedal for each feature installed on the trolling motor is connected to an output device separately. Once the
features that may be installed are identified, follow the instructions below to ensure the cables are connected correctly.
a. The Built-In MEGA Down Imaging connector from
the Foot Pedal is a 14 pin connector. On a Fortrex,
Built-In MEGA Down Imaging will never be installed
with Universal Sonar. Locate and identify the
correct connection for Built-in MEGA Down Imaging
cable(s), at the base of the Foot Pedal.
1
NOTICE: Built-in MEGA Down Imaging may be
pre-installed on a Fortrex motor without other
features that require external connections.
Fourteen Pin
Connector
Built-in MEGA Down
Imaging cable from
Control Head
Toe End
Power Cables
Foot Pedal
Base
Built-in MEGA
Down Imaging
Heel End

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FEATURE OVERVIEW AND CONNECTING THE CABLES
Adapter Cable
(Helix ONLY) Adapter
Cable Keyed
Connection
Locking Collar
Fourteen Pin Connector
Built-In MEGA
Down Imaging from
Trolling Motor
Humminbird Helix Fish Finder
Plug into
Helix Fish
Finder
b. When installing with a Solix, the Built-In MEGA
Down Imaging cable can be plugged directly into
the Solix fish finder. Plug the Built-in MEGA Down
Imaging cable into the corresponding connection on
the Solix fish finder.
c. When installing with a Helix, first attach the Adapter
Cable and then plug the Adapter Cable into the
Helix fish finder. The Adapter Cable will only have
one connection that is keyed on the back of the
Helix fish finder. Plug the Adapter Cable into the
only matching keyed connection.
2
Solix Fish Finder
Connection
Plug directly into
Solix Fish Finder
Locking Collar
Fourteen Pin Connector
Built-In MEGA Down Imaging
from Trolling Motor
Humminbird Solix Fish Finder
NOTICE: Check for compatibility or any required
adapter cables online at minnkotamotors.com. The
cable from the trolling motor can be extended with a
10’ Extension Cable #720081-1 or the 30’ Extension
Cable #720081-2 found at humminbird.com.
NOTICE: If any cables need to be routed, please
follow the guidelines in the Routing Connection
Cables section of these installation instructions.
Keyed Adapter Cable
for Helix Fish Finder
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to prevent
reversed installation.

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©2018 Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.
FEATURE OVERVIEW AND CONNECTING THE CABLES
Four Pin
Connector Universal Sonar
Cable from Foot
Pedal
NOTICE: Your fish finder should be turned off until
this procedure is complete.
NOTICE: If the cable length does not reach the desired
fish finder installation location, a 14.5’ extension cable is
available (MKR-US2-11) (sold separately).
a. Locate the Universal Sonar, if equipped, at the base
of the Foot Pedal.
b. Locate the Universal Sonar four pin connector at
the end of Universal Sonar Extension Cable. The
connector is black with a stainless steel threaded
locking collar.
1
The connector for Universal Sonar exits the trolling motor at the base of the Foot Pedal and consists of a 4 pin plug. An adapter cable
(MKR-US2) that is sold separately is required for all installations. For a current list of compatible fish finders and the correct adapter
cable, or more information on Universal Sonar, please visit minnkotamotors.com.
NOTICE: Universal Sonar does not support imaging screens that require higher frequencies such as 455 kHz or 800 kHz (Down
Imaging, Side Imaging, etc.). Down Imaging (DI) specific units are not compatible with Universal Sonar. See compatibility chart
for a list of compatible fish finders at minnkotamotors.com.
Universal Sonar
Your trolling motor may be pre-installed with a Universal Sonar transducer system. Universal Sonar is a 2D sonar transducer with a
temperature sensor that is integrated into the lower unit of the trolling motor. It has an operating frequency of 83/200 kHz. Connecting
this transducer to a compatible fish finder gives you a 2D sonar view of what is happening directly below your trolling motor. The
integrated design protects the transducer from underwater hazards, and prevents tangles and damage to the transducer cables.
All Universal Sonar motors are equipped with an internal bonding wire, incorrect rigging will cause sonar interference and can damage
your trolling motor, electronics and other boat accessories. To minimize trolling motor interference, ensure that the fish finder and trolling
motor are powered by separate batteries. Please refer to the Battery & Wiring Installation and Motor Wiring Diagram sections of this
manual for correct rigging instructions.
The Universal Sonar Cables are shielded to minimize interference. To protect this shielding the cables should not be pulled tight against
sharp angles or hard objects. If using cable ties, do not over-tighten. Any excess cable should be bundled in a loose loop of no less than
4” in diameter. In certain situations, air bubbles may adhere to the surface of the Universal Sonar transducer, and effect the performance.
If this happens simply wipe the surface of the transducer with your finger.
Toe End
Power Cables
Foot Pedal
Base
Built-in MEGA
Down Imaging or
Universal Sonar
Heel End

20 | minnkotamotors.com ©2018 Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.
FEATURE OVERVIEW AND CONNECTING THE CABLES
c. Take the Universal Sonar Extension Cable, if needed,
and attach it to the Universal Sonar Cable exiting the
Foot Pedal. Firmly push the plug together and twist
the locking collar until it is snug.
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to prevent reversed
installation.
Four Pin Connector
Universal Sonar
Cable from
Foot Pedal
Universal Sonar Cable from
Foot Pedal OR Universal
Sonar Extension Cable
Universal Sonar
Extension Cable
Universal Sonar
Adapter Cable to
fish finder
Locking Collar
Locking Collar
2
NOTICE: If any cables need to be routed, please
follow the guidelines in the Routing Connection
Cables section of these installation instructions.
NOTICE: The Universal Sonar Cable may not be
long enough to reach the fish finder. If the cable
length does not reach the desired fish finder
installation location, a 14.5’ extension cable is
available to purchase. Minn Kota recommends
using the MKR-US2-11.
d. Install the Universal Sonar Cable that exists the
Foot Pedal or the Universal Sonar Extension Cable
(if used) to the appropriate Universal Sonar Adapter
Cable. Install the Adapter Cable to your fish finder.
Refer to your fish finder manual for complete
installation instructions.
2d
2e