trolling motors & salt water

[JMetzner]

I just had a Homer Simpson - DOH! - moment.  I'm going down to Homer, Alaska next week and hadn't thought about the fact that my trolling motor is a fresh water model.  Is using it down there in Katchemak Bay a big no-no or is it a no big deal?  It'll probably be a one-shot deal, I doubt I'll be in salt water much or ever again.  What precausions do I need to take before and after?  I assume I need to give it a thorough rinsing/cleaning in fresh water afterward.  What else?

--John M.
Fairbanks, AK

[Barry Pyeatt]

Don't let it hang in the water while not being used.  Keep the battery disconneced from the motor when not using it.  And yes, rinse it thoroughly when you are finished.

[PAR]

Ditto Barry, pull the prop and rinse inside the hub and shaft area well, after you return.