Running a freshwater minn kota in saltwater

[urbanangler]

How bad of idea is it to run my freshwater electric motor in saltwater for a day?

[gpc]

I have done it plenty of times, but I know its not recommended. When you get back in from the salt, fill a garbage can up with water and run it for a few minutes and it will flush all the salt water out. Or you can just take off the prop pin, remove the prop and hose of the whole thing.

[David Z.]

It will also void your warranty.

[A9]

The salty air might corrode the battery too...The spots where you clip your wires can get all sorts of rust and corrosion...

[The Quadfather]

Urbanangler,

Just a heads up on the Minn Kota, or whatever electric motor you've got. I too had thought about this before getting an additional gas motor.
However, with the electric you will have VERY little control of the bow as soon as you get any wind at all. Even on LK. WA. one day I was out there and it got a little windy, and I thought I wouldn't make it back to shore. Even when you pick a non windy day on the Sound, it can still be a bit choppy, I would be curious to hear what a few others might say, like Sam Kafelafish.

[urbanangler]

Thanks, Quad. I plan to someday get a little gas motor too. After my bank account recovers from buying the boat, fishfinder, battery, chargers, downriggers, etc. :O And thank you all for the advice on running the motor in saltwater -- I think I will not do that!