Let’s Dive into Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support
Bow-mounted trolling motors are essential for serious anglers, offering precision boat control and freeing up hands for fishing. However, anyone who’s spent time on the water knows the constant bouncing and vibration can damage the motor, its mount, and even the boat itself. That’s where the Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support comes in – a product designed to stabilize your trolling motor and protect your investment.
I needed a solution to the constant jarring my trolling motor endured, especially when running at higher speeds or navigating choppy waters. I’d seen friends’ trolling motors develop cracks and loosen over time, and I wanted to prevent that. This seemed like a smart, preventative measure. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid construction and the marine-grade aluminum. The product felt substantial, reassuring me of its ability to withstand the rigors of boating.
There are other trolling motor supports on the market, some using simpler designs or different materials. I considered a cheaper, all-plastic option, but was concerned about its long-term durability. The Ram Mounts system, with its robust ball-and-socket design and metal construction, seemed like a more reliable, long-lasting solution, justifying the slightly higher price. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype and protected my trolling motor as promised.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support came during a weekend fishing trip to a large, open lake known for its unpredictable winds and choppy conditions. I installed it before launching, noting the ease of attachment thanks to the strap base; it securely fit the rail of my boat. As soon as I hit the water and engaged the trolling motor, I could feel a noticeable difference.
The Ram Mounts system significantly reduced the bouncing and vibration I was accustomed to. The trolling motor felt more stable, especially when running at higher speeds to navigate against the wind. I experienced no issues during the first outing, even in moderately choppy water, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much smoother the ride was for the trolling motor.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including numerous fishing trips in varying weather conditions, the Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, the aluminum shows no corrosion, and the ball-and-socket joints remain tight and secure. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each trip to remove any salt or debris, a simple maintenance routine that takes only a few minutes.
Compared to my previous setup (or lack thereof), the difference is night and day. My trolling motor feels significantly more secure, and I have far greater peace of mind knowing that it’s protected from unnecessary stress and vibration. It has outperformed my expectations, proving to be a worthwhile investment in the longevity of my trolling motor.
Breaking Down the Features of Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support
Specifications
The Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support, model RAM-108, is constructed from powder-coated marine-grade aluminum. This material choice is critical for saltwater environments, offering excellent corrosion resistance. The system utilizes a 1.5″ rubber ball size, allowing for a wide range of articulation and secure clamping force.
The product features a double socket arm, providing flexibility in positioning the support. It includes a 2.5″ diameter round base with the universal AMPs hole pattern for mounting to various surfaces. A single strap base accommodates rails from 0.5″ to 2″ in diameter, offering versatile attachment options. These specifications are important because they provide a durable, adaptable, and secure system for stabilizing a trolling motor.
Performance & Functionality
The Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support excels at its primary function: reducing bouncing and vibration in trolling motors. This translates to less stress on the motor’s head, shaft, and mount, potentially extending its lifespan. It offers a noticeable improvement in stability, particularly in rough water conditions.
The system works perfectly in mitigating vibration and securing the trolling motor. A potential improvement would be a quick-release mechanism for even faster removal and deployment of the motor in certain situations. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations by providing a robust and reliable support system.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ram Mounts design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing durability and ease of use. The marine-grade aluminum construction is robust, but also adds some weight to the overall system. The ball-and-socket design allows for easy adjustment and secure locking, ensuring the trolling motor remains stable in the desired position.
The system is generally user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and adjustment. The strap base is easy to install and remove, making it convenient to transfer the support between different boats. Some users may find the initial tightening of the ball joints a bit stiff, but this ensures a secure hold once in place.
Durability & Maintenance
The marine-grade aluminum construction and powder-coated finish suggest excellent long-term durability. Regular cleaning with soap and water should be sufficient to maintain its appearance and functionality. The product feels like it will last for many years with proper care, even in harsh marine environments.
The simple design minimizes the potential for mechanical failures, and the high-quality materials ensure resistance to corrosion and wear. There are no specific repair procedures outlined, but the modular design suggests that individual components could be replaced if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support comes with the necessary hardware for basic installation. The AMPs hole pattern on the round base allows for compatibility with other Ram Mounts accessories, such as additional mounting plates or extensions. This provides some degree of customization, allowing users to adapt the system to their specific boat and trolling motor setup.
While there are no dedicated accessories specifically for this product, the Ram Mounts ecosystem offers a wide range of compatible components. Users can potentially add additional support arms or mounting options to further customize the system. The product’s compatibility with existing Ram Mounts accessories enhances its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support
Pros
- The Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support significantly reduces bouncing and vibration, protecting your trolling motor from damage.
- Constructed from durable, marine-grade aluminum, ensuring long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
- The adjustable ball-and-socket design allows for versatile positioning and secure locking.
- It is easy to install and remove with the strap base, making it convenient to transfer between boats.
- It’s a great way to protect your investment in your trolling motor by extending its lifespan.
Cons
- The Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support can add some weight to your boat’s rail or mounting surface.
- The initial tightening of the ball joints can be a bit stiff for some users.
Who Should Buy Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support?
The Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support is perfect for serious anglers who frequently use their bow-mounted trolling motors, especially in rough water conditions. It’s also ideal for boaters who transport their boats frequently, as it prevents damage during transport. Anyone looking to protect their investment in a trolling motor and extend its lifespan will benefit from this product.
If you primarily fish in calm, sheltered waters and rarely transport your boat, you might not need this product. A simple bungee cord or less robust support system might suffice. There are no essential accessories, but having additional Ram Mounts components can expand the mounting options.
Conclusion on Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support
The Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support is a well-engineered and durable product that effectively protects trolling motors from bouncing and vibration. Its marine-grade aluminum construction and adjustable design make it a reliable and versatile solution for serious anglers. At $67.99, the price is justified by the potential savings in trolling motor repairs and replacements.
I would personally recommend the Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support to anyone who values their trolling motor and wants to ensure its longevity. It’s a small investment that can pay off big time in the long run. Don’t let rough waters damage your valuable equipment – invest in the Ram Mounts Trolling Motor Support and enjoy smoother, more worry-free fishing trips!