lithium battery questions

[up2nogood]

I wouldn’t worry about the 85% rule unless your specific trolling motor manufacturer says it’s required. Most modern trolling motors that are lithium-compatible can run normally on LiFePO4 without you constantly watching the speed setting. The BMS is usually built into the lithium battery, so you don’t normally need to buy one separately. It handles overcharging, over-discharging, overcurrent, and temperature protection. For a small 9-ft pontoon, I’d choose LiFePO4 if your motor is rated for it. Otherwise, sticking with lead-acid or upgrading to a lithium-compatible motor is the safer route.

I ran lithium on a 50 thrust MinnKota in pontoon boat before I knew about the 85% rule . The motor was not brushless . I ran it as much as I wanted at 100% to get somewhere , not knowing I shouldn't . The motor was not a 5 speed ,it was the variable speed with the digital maximizer , but it was older than before they came out with the brushless , I believe that was 2023 . I got away with it , but apparently it's not advisable .

I now a 24 volt 80 MinnKota Terrova in a fishing boat ,and that motor is not brushless . I don't run lithium with it yet , but I will when the two lead acid batteries give up . I will switch to lithium , two 100 amp. I will also have to switch my onboard charger to a Noco or similar that will support charging lithium . My existing onboard charger does not . But I will follow the 85% rule with the Terrova . That motor I never run it any harder than 5-6 , most of the time its down around 4 trolling . Even less on spot lock .

But , Doublebluff I wouldn't be afraid to run Lithium with whatever motor you have , but some of the newer Minnkota's do come brushless , some don't . Regardless with a little caution , I would definitely go lithium , if anything the weight .