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I'm thinking as part of my restoration of my early 70's 13 footer is to add a transom mounted electric trolling motor. On the port side of the transom there is a " flat " spot molded into the fiberglass that looks perfect to mount a trolling motor. Is this a crazy idea or does it have merit ? I would use it occasionally for fishing or maybe for emergencies if the outboard konks out. Would run off the same battery that starts the outboard. So how many pounds of thrust is sufficient for a 13 foot hull ? Not looking for speed records just forward movement. I have found two local " vintage " trolling motors that I think would look good on this era Whaler my guess is they are in the 30- 40 lb. thrust range. What do you guys think ?

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I had one on my boat and it worked great. The 30-40 lbs. of thrust should be fine. Now with the 4 stroke you cant hear it at idle so I just use that.

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I plan on getting a 55 lb thrust trolling motor for my 13. It's basically the most thrust you can get with a 12 volt system and I figure I can use it on my 18 as well.

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I'm only guessing at the thrust of these old motors. I just like the idea of saving/using something vintage and the idea that they are mostly metal vs. plastic. I guess I'm old school and expect things to last for generations.................like a Whaler !

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I use a 30lb thrust on my 13', it moves very well even against the wind and current. I use my motor on the bow but I don't see where that would make a difference with thrust requirement.
If your going to mount it on the transom I would recommend getting one with a telescoping handle.
I would not go any lower than a 30lb thrust

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I have a 45lb thrust bow mount hand control on my 1973 sport. I think anything smaller than 45lb would not be enough on windy days. With the bow mount the longer shaft length is needed. The transom mount would not support my style of fishing.