Jethro Posted October 29, 2004 Share Posted October 29, 2004 My mum is off to the states next week for a couple of weeks R&R. While she is there I am thinking about getting her to pick a Minn Kota for my new boat. For a 55lb autopilot I have been quoted $575 USD (Approx $820AUD) compared to $1370 here. My question is how do the standard US models hold up in saltwater? Has any one ever bought a Minn kota in from the states? I know that it wont be covered by warranty but is there anything else I am overlooking? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pogo Posted October 29, 2004 Share Posted October 29, 2004 G'day Jethro, I just brought a Ripe tide AUtopilot bowmount 55 back from the states. I paid 719 USD. No problem getting it back in you may have to pay duty on the price above your duty free allowance (400AUS) but that will depend on the customs oficer you get. My only caution would be, especially if its your mum bringing it back, that they are large, bulky and difficult to transport Mine was in a box about 5feet long and a foot by two square and weighed 26 kg so you might get biffed for excess baggage as well. Still trying to find time to fit mine but looking forward to it Regards POGO Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ozy Posted October 29, 2004 Share Posted October 29, 2004 I know that it wont be covered by warranty but is there anything else I am overlooking? 17091[/snapback] There have been quite a few posts in recent times about problems with the APs and the foot controls, so I'd be thinking twice about not having a warranty. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jethro Posted October 29, 2004 Author Share Posted October 29, 2004 Pogo - I didn't think about the size, thanks. I better check with the old girl first. Ozy - Its a tough decision with warranty and I have heard the same things as you about the foot pedals. Might have to think about it a bit more over the weekend Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mark-fisho1 Posted October 30, 2004 Share Posted October 30, 2004 i have aminkota with ap & foot control have been using it with np at all just wash it out after use & no probs i love it Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
strewth Posted October 30, 2004 Share Posted October 30, 2004 I have had problems with my MK 55AP foot controls over a period of 2 years and it is not uncommon. However, with that price saving, you can afford to buy a few new replacement ones and still be in front (they cost about A$190 here). They would be a bit heavy to carry... Strewth Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
David C Posted October 30, 2004 Share Posted October 30, 2004 is'nt the rt 55lb with auto pilot in usa has a different compas setting because its in a different hemisphere wouldent it b reversed Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jethro Posted October 31, 2004 Author Share Posted October 31, 2004 Thanks guys David - Someone else mentioned the same thing to me. But I have spoken to others who have used MK AP from the USA and they have not had a problem. I guess its something MK uses as a scare tactic. Buth north is north no matter what hemisphere you are in Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mick Posted November 1, 2004 Share Posted November 1, 2004 The MK have a compass in them, but it is not a compass that recognises exact points such as N,S,E,W. It will hold course where ever you point it, so it doesnt matter what continent you happen to be on, you point it a point in the distance and it will hold that course. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now