R27 trolling motor

[Pddayo]

I’m In the process of buying a 2013 r27 with the 200hp Volvo and a 4hp Yamaha for the dingy. Going to mount a pair of Scotty down riggers and wondering if I could use the 4hp to troll at 1 to 1 1/2 mph mounting it on the swim step as opposed to dragging a bucket or old tire and putting a bunch of hours on the big motor? Anyway to hook it up to the Garmin autopilot?
Thanks

 

[knotflying]

The autopilot will function regardless of what you use for power. Remember it moves the prop an that's it. The question is at such a low speed will the rudder have enough authority to maneuver properly.

 

[bob daily]

I installed a kicker on my R-21EC and use the rudder for steering the boat, you have twice the boat and half the rudder size! As said due to slow speed and size of rudder on your boat you will not have control, not to mention current and wind.
I went to with a Tohatsu 6HP and thought this was about the smallest unit to power the boat to my satisfaction, some photos in my album during sea trials.
I would recommend that whatever power kicker motor you install, I would look into installation of a wireless remote steering unit and throttle control.
The Troll Master remote throttle control along with the Panther tiller electro steering unit can be installed at a reasonable price and unit is wireless so no need for running extra wires.
Good luck and happy fishing! Bob

 

[Pddayo]

Ah yes...4 hp is way too small.
I will look into Troll Master and Panther tiller.
Thank you both for the input.
Merry Christmas!