Rocky Mountain Paddle

AquaPod Electric Motor Retrofit Guide 

Hello from the Okanagan Valley 👋

Thank you for supporting Rocky Mountain Paddle. Before you begin the electric trolling-motor retrofit, gather the right gear for the best results.

🔧 Equipment Needed

🔋 1. Lithium Battery

Can be placed in any position unlike conventional batteries
Lightweight; 

Fits any orientation in the AquaPod front hatch

Over 3 500 recharge cycles at up to 80 % capacity

⚡ 2. Minn Kota Endura Max 45 LB

Digital technology gives you up to 5 × longer run time

 Avoid the 55 LB model—its larger propeller head makes it difficult to slide through the hull

⚙️ Mounting & Control

Once the motor bracket is installed onto the Minn Kota, you’re done with the AquaPod retrofit—it slides through the same hole as the pedal-drive system.

Tighten the motor shaft to steer with the rudder, or loosen to steer directly with the motor—unmatched maneuverability.

🛠 Mount Options
Stern, bow, and side mounts technically work, but each has drawbacks (weight, balance, cost).


We offer a simple, extremely functional, and truly inexpensive alternative that actually works.

🎥 Video Demo
See our real-world turning-radius test: Watch on YouTube  

pic_1
1. Disassemble Head 
Remove the six screws from the bottom of the head and slide out the collar pin (note the plastic sleeve on the bolt don’t lose it.) A small punch helps dislodge the bolt;

pic_2

2. Unplug Wires

Disconnect the two thick 10 gauge wires—positive in the center, negative at the rear.  


pic_3

3. Feed Wires Through 

Carefully feed the unplugged wires through the head housing.


Pic_4

4. Remove Components 

Take off the motor head, the tightening clamp, and the transom bracket.


Pic_5
5. Measure & Cut Shaft

Cut the shaft to your chosen length (13 inches recommended). Drill a 5/8 inch starter hole; protect internal wires



Pic_6
6. Create Wire Slot

Make a slot large enough to pull the wires through. Pull wires out, bend aside, then complete the cut.
PIc_7
7. Drill Alignment Hole

Drill a hole at the top of the remaining shaft, aligned precisely 
Pic_8
8. Protect Wires While Drilling

Drill carefully to avoid nicking the internal wires.

Pic_9
9. Prepare Bracket

Get the motor-mount bracket ready for installation.

Pic_10
10. Disassemble Sleeve

Remove the four screws from the bracket sleeve and detach it.


Pic_11
11. Position Sleeve

Loosen the sleeve screws and slide it onto the shaft; tighten just enough for free rotation.
Pic_12
12. Install Mounting Bracket

Slide the mounting bracket over the sleeve, tighten lightly (do not squeeze), ensure the small flange sits at the bottom near the propeller, and test rotation.

pic_13
13. Reassemble Motor

Slide on the tightening clamp and reinstall the motor head.