MobyJ, I have a 16 foot around 1800 or 1900 lbs fully loaded (including people and gear). The 43lb just doesn't cut it in the wind despite what the charts say. It does ok at best with a full charge.
I know what the Minn Kota auto pilot feature does. What do you mean when you say you like the "power drive" feature, I'm not sure what that means? I've also looked at their Maximizer battery saving technology.
I really didn't want to go to a 24v but do you think that's what I should do? Otherwise I'm looking at 55 max with a 12V.