I'm a MinnKota man as well. I bought a Motorcraft once when Walmart was out of MinnKota. When I noticed there was no wing nut on the shaft ,the prop was tiny and the handle was extremely short..I took it back and found another Walmart.
Minnkotas are not perfect though here are some problems I've had.
Switch in my 27 thrust went out. I replaced it very simple 29.00
Eventually burned the motor up. I had it for 10 years
Broke a prop in two pieces once. I now carry an extra prop and wing nut.
Last year an retaining ring.came off which released my armature on my 48 pound spider {Minn kota} I still got it for parts. I may fix it later. As you can see ..they are easy to work on. Had it for 4 years
I now have a 40 pound thrust and am having a little trouble with the switchThese motors get alot of use. I fish at least once a week. Had ittwo years. Here is the online parts store's address.http://www.northlandmarine.com/MinnKotaQuickRef.htm
Minn Kota Transom Mount Parts Diagram
