If you’re looking to reduce effort when raising or lowering a trolling motor, a lift assist is a smart upgrade. This guide highlights five lift assist products that fit popular Minn Kota and Garmin setups, helps you choose based on motor weight and mounting style, and explains where each option shines. Ideal buyers include anglers with heavier motors seeking smoother one-handed lifts, boaters prioritizing corrosion resistance, and DIY installers wanting straightforward replacements.
| Product | Brand | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Force Pro Trolling Motor Lift Assist | Garmin | High-power, Garmin Force/Force Pro users | Gas spring lift assist for larger motors |
| T-H Marine G-Force Equalizer | T-H Marine | MotorGuide Gator Mounts | Two air pistons provide easy lift and stability |
| Lift Assist Assembly For Terrova 55 Lb | LAPLOCK | Terrova 55 Lb models (2017–Present) | OEM-replacement style, corrosion-resistant |
| Lift Assist Assembly For Terrova T2 80 Lb | TECHVALET | Terrova BT 80 models | Direct-fit, designed for integration |
| Minn Kota Lift Assist Cylinder for Ultrex | Minn Kota | Ultrex 80/45″ setups | Increases lift effect, replaces factory cylinder |
Below are five carefully selected lift assist options. Each product includes a concise explanation of who it’s best for, why it’s a good fit, and a potential limitation to consider.
Garmin Force Pro Trolling Motor Lift Assist
Best for: Garmin Force or Force Pro users who want integrated lifting support for heavier propulsion systems. This lift assist uses a gas spring mechanism to ease the lift and stow motions, reducing effort when handling large trolling motors in and out of the water. The design complements Garmin’s power package and minimizes motor weight on the mount. Limitation: Compatibility is tailored to Garmin Force/Force Pro setups, so it may require a different solution for non-Garmin motors.
112# Lift Assist Assembly FW 2992729 Fits Minn Kota
Best for: Freshwater Terrova models rated at 112# thrust with lift assist, especially those built 2017–Present. This assembly is a direct lift-assist replacement that integrates with existing Terrova setups. Limitation: May require detaching or reworking the mount to install, and may not fit non-Terrova models.
Lift Assist Assembly FOR Minn Kota Terrova 55 Lb Thrust
Best for: Terrova 55 Lb thrust models from 2017–Present seeking a direct-fit, corrosion-resistant lift assist. It’s a straightforward replacement that aligns with OEM dimensions and mounting patterns. Limitation: Might not support heavier 80 Lb Terrova configurations without a higher-capacity kit.
Lift Assist Assembly Fits 80 Lb Terrova T2
Best for: Minn Kota Terrova T2 80 Lb thrust models with lift assist, designed 2017 to Present. This solution targets higher-thrust Terrova setups and ensures compatibility with the T2 architecture. Limitation: May require professional installation for precise alignment and wiring checks.
T-H Marine G-Force Equalizer Kit
Best for: MotorGuide Gator Mounts users who want dual air pistons providing balanced lift and easier stow for larger setups or additional accessories. It offsets extra weight from electronics and ensures comfortable hoisting. Limitation: Requires compatible mounting hardware and precise alignment for optimal performance.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a lift assist?
- Motor weight and thrust: Match the lift assist’s capacity to your trolling motor’s weight class (e.g., 55, 80, 112# thrust).
- Compatibility: Confirm compatibility with your specific model and mounting system (Terrova, Ultrex, Gator Mount, etc.).
- Material and corrosion resistance: Look for marine-grade hardware and corrosion-resistant components for freshwater and saltwater use.
Do you need a direct OEM replacement or a universal solution?
- OEM replacements (like Terrova-specific lifts) offer a cleaner fit and fewer modification requirements.
- Universal or aftermarket kits can fit multiple models but may require adaptation or drilling templates.
Installation difficulty
- Some kits include drilling templates and marine-grade hardware for straightforward installation.
- Others may require more sophisticated mounting work or alignment checks; consider professional help if unsure.
Maintenance and longevity
- Inspect gas springs or air pistons for wear and leaks; replace components showing deterioration.
- Rinse hardware after saltwater use to reduce corrosion risk.
FAQ
- What is a trolling motor lift assist? It is a device that eases lifting and lowering the motor, reducing the effort required to hoist heavier motors.
- Will lift assist work with any trolling motor? Compatibility depends on model and mounting type; check the product’s listed fits.
- Can I install a lift assist myself? Many kits are designed for DIY installation, but some may require basic tools and drilling templates.
- Do lift assists affect performance? They primarily aid lifting; they do not modify thrust or steering performance beyond stability during lift.
- Are lift assists weather-sensitive? Most are designed for marine environments, but routine maintenance extends life in freshwater and saltwater use.
- What’s the best option for heavy motors? Higher-thrust Terrova or Garmin Force setups commonly benefit from higher-capacity lift assists with durable hardware.