2016 FS128T Mods and Trolling Motor Mount

[@BGB_Fishing]

This looks great! Just got into the game and appreciate you sharing your innovations.

[@АлексЛоренс-т9ш]

*I bought this model for my 14 ft Jon boat. **enjoyable.fishing** recommend love it!!! It pushes my boat with ease ( 2 men 220 each). I would highly recommend this to anyone.*

[@csufjeff]

Very nice...I am moding a kayak..Have not yet touched water...Thanks for sharing...Cheers Jeff

[@petesauer9729]

Very thought out plan as to how you've set it up. Very nice.....congrats.

[@Burgman-scooter]

Very nice, you did a great job both the build & video.

[@ua72riddle55]

Very nice set up! makes me regret not buying this yak! Guess I'm just going to have to have two yaks...lol Thanks for posting the vid. 🤘👍

[@nicholasallan9248]

man thats a nice rig! i am picking up the 12T later this week. almost the same minus the rear hatch and a few other things

[@PwWgn06]

Nicholas Allan thanks!

[@bradyarnold9209]

great vid im about half way of having the same set up just wondering if you could provide some part # for the lights and battery

[@eddieserna5494]

Nice Video..I bought the exact set up from bass pro in R.R..been looking to mount a trolling motor on mine.

[@billk3230]

Super nice rig. Way to go.

[@diorod8167]

Great video but did you add some kind of motor kill switch just in case you fall of the kayak it will not keep going from you ?

[@joelpriest8254]

Clean Work John...

[@ShacksOutdoorAdventures]

I am picking mine up next week, may have some questions after the mods start. Good work man!

[@PwWgn06]

Shack's Outdoor Adventures ask away!!

[@garethlalexander8620]

Very nice! What gauge wire did you use to attach the motor to your control box?

[@jeffherold9891]

You should think about putting metal rings in the holes that the steering cable comes out of

[@fredfable5655]

Very Nice!! I like it.

[@1kollonh]

That's a really nice kayak and a very nice set up,how much just for the kayak and how much for the complete set up as you had?

[@PwWgn06]

Mr. kL the 2017 models is $849.99. You may be able to find the 2016 model a little cheaper. All together I may have $1800 in the rig. www.ascend-kayaks.com/detail.cfm?boatID=4085

[@scottthiele2143]

Thanks John. You have a really nice set up. I have the exact same kayak and would love to do that. A couple of other questions, if you don't mind. 1. I was thinking about using toe control foot braces for steering. Like SeaLect toe pilots. My only concern is that I might not get enough length on the pull limiting motor deflection. Have you looked into tht? 2. Is that 7 pen trailer plug waterproof, and do you think it would stand up to saltwater? Thanks! Best mod I've seen so far!

[@PwWgn06]

Scott Thiele I didn't know of this product but would be a lot better if, as you mentioned would provide enough length on the pull. Also, I would recommend a Marine grade plug for salt water. Mine is just a regular trailer plug.

[@varking1380]

Great video !!! I'm starting a motor mod on mine soon

[@jameswarner0858]

By far my favorite set up! Hope you dont mind, but I will be copying this set up.

[@PwWgn06]

James Warner No problem!! Thanks!

[@dymerafaelbr-usa6260]

Can you tell us what size is the battery? Also, it would be very nice if you could show us how you actually did the power control. I am a nub when the subject is electronics lol

[@PwWgn06]

Fishin' South GA , Join Ascend Kayak Owners Facebook page, search John Callahan. I posted pics of the complete build. It should answer most of the install questions. BTW, GO DAWGS!!!

[@cortlandbennett1174]

Great video. Thx

[@donnieschult6987]

awesome set up! could I possible get the model number for the deep cell battery. also when you say it last you all day is that a 5 hour day or closer to 10? one more thing, what is your common forward speed you use to get it to last all day? again awesome setup! thanks.

[@PwWgn06]

Donnie Schult here is the link to my battery. I got it cheaper than current price. www.batteriesplus.com/battery/sla-sealed-lead-acid/duracell-ultra/12/wkdc12=80p It's about an 6-8 hour day and I usually use number two-three speed setting when not in a hurry.

[@evandibenedetto8660]

really nice setup. im in the process of adding a trolling motor to my fs128t but cant seem to find any cable guards to mount on the rear where the steering cable penetrates the hull. any chance u cant point me in the right direction?.......cancel that, just scrolled down and saw that someone had already asked that question and behold i have my answer!

[@PwWgn06]

Evan Dibenedetto are you talking about the black clam shell vents? www.google.com/search?q=clam+shell+vents&sa=X&rlz=1CDGOYI_enUS591US591&hl=en-US&biw=414&bih=660&tbs=vw:l,ss:44&tbm=shop&prmd=sivn&srpd=16783399589828548058&prds=epd:3925916927625457840,cdl:1,cid:18362844239773141471&ved=0ahUKEwi-iuuy7bHTAhXkqVQKHY0jBWAQgTYItAQ

[@evandibenedetto8660]

yes thats what i was looking for...i had found them from a dealer on line but they wanted 30 bucks for a pair. i see these ones are way cheaper. very nice video by the way.

[@PwWgn06]

Evan Dibenedetto thanks! Tight Lines!!

[@mckmh07167]

How did you wire the 7 pin trailer plug to the trolling motor? I just bought a used fs128t and it came with a trolling motor but he mounted it on the side. Your set up is way better. I love the deck light too, what brand are they?

[@ericd701]

Nice setup! Where did you get the plastic shields that cover the hole that you run the cable through that com from the motor? I don't know what they are called so I can't seem to find them.

[@PwWgn06]

Eric Degenova Here you go!! You may be able to find them cheaper. www.walmart.com/ip/T-H-Marine-CSS1DP-TH-Marine-Clam-Shell-7-16-X-7-8-In.-Blac/32741834?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=2132&adid=22222222228021902150&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=52515286271&wl4=pla-84076215791&wl5=9027420&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=113146354&wl11=online&wl12=32741834&wl13=&veh=sem

[@BTV_242]

Is there a difference in function when mounting the transducer where you did compared to the bottom of the trolling motor?

[@PwWgn06]

No difference, just puts the transducer in a higher location versus the trolling motor.

[@BTV_242]

Thanks for the reply

[@Eric-gi9kg]

John... Like minds think alike. I've been trying to figure out a simple way to rig a trolling motor control up front without using a "fob". Your version is the perfect solution....LOVE IT THANKS FOR A GREAT VIDEO. Would it be possible to get a schematic or wire drawing from you on how you rigged it?

[@PwWgn06]

Eric, here is a link to the wiring diagram I used with the motor. The switch was removed from the head unit and relocated to the seat area. The only thing you are doing with the motor wiring is just extending the lengths of the power and throttle wires to the location you want the switch located. panoramabypatysesma.com/minn-kota-trolling-motor-wiring-diagram/wiring-diagram-for-minn-kota-trolling-motors-deltagenerali-me-or-motor/

[@PwWgn06]

Also, if you’re on Facebook, go to Ascend Kayak Owners page, request to join page if need to. Search John Callahan complete install. It will have detailed pics of the entire build. m.facebook.com/groups/1394211460791768

[@bobbywaltersinsurance9081]

Where do you get the switch to run the trolling motor? Also do you have a cable to raise the trolling motor if you need to while your in the water?

[@PwWgn06]

Bobby Walters Insurance the switch is the same one in the head of the trolling motor. I just used a stove knob after mounting it under the yak. I didn’t used a cable to lift the motor. I had the motor pulled high enough that the kayak would bottom out before the motor hit.

[@jeffherold9891]

That is a clean ass set up i would try and it would not turn out so nice

[@BoandBeceadventures]

Hello sir. Great boat. Great video. Can you please provide a link for your particular battery please sir. Thank you.

[@PwWgn06]

James Powell here you go! www.batteriesplus.com/productdetails/WKDC12=55P?storecode=869&locationofinterest=&locationphysical=1026831&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhIrQkLzI3wIVBLXACh0DPwDFEAQYBSABEgLdafD_BwE

[@BoandBeceadventures]

@@PwWgn06 thanks John. So how long will this battery last you on a day? Have you used it in a river?

[@PwWgn06]

James Powell never used it in a River. It would last me a good 5-6 hours on the lake with a lot of trolling and still have plenty of charge remaining when Input it on the charger.

[@BoandBeceadventures]

@@PwWgn06 ok thank you. I'm get one really soon. I have that same boat. I'm due a new battery. Thinking about a new motor as well. Are you satisfied with your motor? I'm rewatching your video now see what you are using. Btw I'm in central Ga. Where you at?

[@PwWgn06]

James Powell I’m in Central Texas now but born in Lizella,Ga. Lived there and most of south Ga until I was early twenties. I sold the Yak several months ago due to back injury. The 50lb thrust would push it about 4-5 MPG according to GPS. Besides the Yak being heavy, I had no complaints about it at all.

[@robertjones8959]

Where did you get the rod tip protector on the front? Nice set up!

[@PwWgn06]

Robert Jones it came with it on this model.

[@danconrad8890]

I’m late to the party, but where did you get the plastic cable guides on the top of the stern for the rudder controls? Or what are they called.

[@PwWgn06]

Dan Conrad you can find them cheaper then this but here is what I got. T H Marine CS1DP CLAM SHELL 9/16 X 1-7/8 IN. BL CLAM SHELL VENT www.amazon.com/dp/B0000C6HT0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KaIiEbRKBTJX1

[@josenarvaez5338]

How many inches below the water line is the motor?

[@wesholt24251]

I have the ascend 12t and have done the same thing. The only issue I am having is with the foot pedals. how did you remove the locking clips in the pedals. I can't seem to get them off without fear of them breaking. They are the same pedals you have. Thanks for any help!

[@PwWgn06]

Wes I used s small punch to pop them lose. Just takes a little pressure. I keep them in the storage just in case I want to reattach them.

[@wesholt24251]

great.. thanks for the reply. I will give that a shot this afternoon. Thanks again!

[@mrmalone28]

Can you remove the transducer? I fish rivers a lot and it would for sure get damaged.

[@wordyakno]

Where did you get the shields for the cables?

[@ShacksOutdoorAdventures]

What did he use to protect water getting into where the fish finder chords are? Where can I buy that?

[@PwWgn06]

It a wrie cover that you can buy at BassPro. www.basspro.com/Wire-Cover/product/9152/

[@iselfxsufficient1517]

Hey man did you bolt the 2 motor mount bolts straight to the board or through the board and through the top of the yak?

[@PwWgn06]

Iselfxsufficient thru both top of yak and board. Only used two

[@Emagg7]

where did you get the switch for the motor under your seat? and can you do a video on how you did the modifications to the electric part of the trollermotor ?

[@PwWgn06]

The switch is the same throttle switch inside the head of the trolling motor. I just removed it from the head and extended the wiring allowing me to mount eh switch under the seat. I have details pictures of the install on both DIY Kayak Rigging and Ascend Kayak Owners Facebook page.

[@crude4u1948]

Just curious as to why you remounted the head back onto the top of the shaft after you took the switch out?

[@PwWgn06]

Jack Wall I thought it looked cleaner and wanted to be a little different. That’s all.

[@TAMELESSTGR]

How do you keep the battery tray from moving around in the hull?

[@ziondavis7464]

Could you post the links to all the parts and pieces you used please

[@badass19671]

I didn't know that you could install a battery on its side!! Aren't you risking a leak?

[@PwWgn06]

Paul Anthony it’s a sealed battery.

[@BoandBeceadventures]

@@PwWgn06 sir I enjoyed your video. Can I get a link for your battery.

[@mrmalone28]

What kind of wire do you use for your extension?

[@WM-xd8zc]

Hey, I just got a 128T kayak, I have question I like to ask you about using the yak power. I can I hook it up to a 12v deep cycle marine battery?

[@PwWgn06]

Dick Tracey this 128T did not have the Yak Power. I’m not familiar with the newer models with Yak Power but I wouldn’t see any reason why you couldn’t use a deep cycle battery.

[@anthonyharris2874]

Nice rig! Do you have a list of materials that you can share? I have the FS12T but I'm look to rig mine similar to yours. Thanks in advance Go Dawgs!

[@PwWgn06]

Anthony Harr the actual mount is made from a cutting board from Walmart. Waterproof box and Trolling Motor plug from Walmart. Wiring and turnbuckles are from local lowes. Vinyl covered cable ordered online but some colors are available at lowes too.

[@anthonyharris2874]

John Callahan

[@brianhillman6080]

Where do you find the little covers for the lines coming out of the back of the kayak and what are they called?

[@PwWgn06]

Brian Hillman clam shell vents.. www.walmart.com/ip/T-H-Marine-CSS1DP-TH-Marine-Clam-Shell-7-16-X-7-8-In.-Blac/32741834?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=2132&adid=22222222228021902150&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=52515286271&wl4=pla-84076215791&wl5=9027420&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=113146354&wl11=online&wl12=32741834&wl13=&veh=sem

[@phobe1952]

How do you release the clip on trolling motor to raise in shallow water? If I put a zip tie on it , when I start running the motor raises up. I have to figure a way to release clip.

[@PwWgn06]

Gary Phillips I just have my motor raised up as high as possible all the time.

[@phobe1952]

Thanks! Nice setup!

[@kevinbrown1278]

were did you get the two lil black cover that you have your wire running though from the troll motor up to the foot paddles and dose it keep water from getting in the kayak where you drill the holes at

[@PwWgn06]

Kevin Brown I order them from Amazon. Here is a link to what I got. T H Marine CS1DP CLAM SHELL 9/16 X 1-7/8 IN. BL CLAM SHELL VENT www.amazon.com/dp/B0000C6HT0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZgffAbK2Q1847 I get minimum if any water thru them.

[@richardsauceda57]

how hard was it to get it registered now that you got a trolling motor ?

[@PwWgn06]

Here in Texas wasn’t an issue. Just filled out a few forms and provide documentation on we’re I purchased the yak.

[@richardsauceda57]

@@PwWgn06 what forms , where do get them from ?

[@tjcassaday7983]

How did you go about registering it and how much did it cost

[@PwWgn06]

Tj Cassaday In TX, you will need to fill out form PWD143. I took it to the local TX Park and Wildlife office. I believe it was about $100 for registration and title fees. The form is available on the TX Park and Wildlife website.

[@thadeushogan8475]

What size wire did you for all your connections?

[@PwWgn06]

thadeus hogan I can’t remember the exact size but I ensured I matched the same gauge wire that was used on the actual trolling motor.

[@kevinbrown1278]

where did you get the switch from 5 forward 1 rev my cover came in today thanks a lot for that infor now i need the switch

[@PwWgn06]

Kevin Brown the switch is the original one from the trolling motor. I just removed it from the top and added extension wires in order to move it up front by the seat.

[@csr528]

What type of battery do you use and how long does it last?

[@PwWgn06]

csr528 I use a DuraCell 80 am Deep Cycle. It last me pretty much all day.

[@Longhornfanable]

What kind of switch did you use?

[@PwWgn06]

It’s the same switch in the trolling motor. I just extended the wires from the trolling motor I order to relocated the switch by the seat. The knob is a regular stove top knob.

[@Longhornfanable]

Okay thanks buddy I appreciate you getting back to me!

[@jshall1000]

Are the lights connected to main battery?

[@PwWgn06]

john hall No, I have a small lithium battery in the center counsel to run lights and depth finder.

[@ronnieshaw506]

What brand are the micro lights

[@CJ-dx4kz]

Where did you get the switch for controller?

[@PwWgn06]

CJ 1I used the switch from inside the trolling motor head with a regular stove knob attached.

[@scottthiele2143]

What size battery did you use?

[@PwWgn06]

Scott Thiele here is the battery that I used. www.batteriesplus.com/battery/sla-sealed-lead-acid/duracell-ultra/12/wkdc12=80p

[@davidchamness2983]

The most important was how to hook up the switch to control the forward, reverse & speed. None of the talking instructions could be heard. This was the critical part so this is a waste of time for me.

[@PwWgn06]

David Chamness, this wasn't a install video, more of a mods video. If you had questions about the details of the install, you could have just asked.

[@BTV_242]

Where did you get the shields for the steering cables?

[@PwWgn06]

Amazon. Search “Marine Clam Covers”.

[@BTV_242]

@@PwWgn06 great thanks so much

[@Phillyfisherman]

How you deploy the motor? Are you able to pull it up with the foot controls?

[@PwWgn06]

Phillyfisherman I can only slide the motor up or down. I haven’t made any mods to deploy it up or down. I usually run the motor just barely under the water and haven’t had a issue yet. Depending on what type of water your fishing this could become an issue though.