This is my first use of the Watersnake transom mount motor (54lbs/36") on a small (2.3m) inflatable (tender). Everything went well speeds were as expected (max 3.2 knots on speed level 5) and fine for getting me to and from shore. I will now do a more in depth test to check the level of battery draw over a longer run.
I'm using a 50amp AGM battery. The recommendation is 80 to 100 amps but I'm trying to keep the weight down. This battery is just under 15 kilos which is manageable on and off the boat for me. It should give me 25-30 minutes on full power,
Overall I'm pleased with the performance of the Watersnake motor. I'd originally selected the 26" shaft length, which would have been OK, but the extra 8" make it an ideal fit.
It's also a good idea to watch where your going, even in an inflatable!!
(Motor: Watersnake Venom - SX 54/36)
UPDATE: 2nd Test Run 4th January 2022
A trip to the Matilda bay cafe was an abject failure! I was refused service because I had forgotten to bring a mask. No argument really my fault!
Of course the trip itself was a success. Two 10 minute runs at setting 5 (full) resulted in the battery dropping from 13.00 volts to 12.83 (10 min) and 12.73 (2nd 10 min).
On 6amp charge since 9.45, in bulk mode. Noted that it was full at 10.50. Suggesting only used 6 amps? Need to look at this further as a paper calculation (based on 54 amp draw on full power) suggests that I should have used about 10 amps. Still not bad.
Tony Mills