MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V
MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V Product Description
Discover the power and precision of the MotorGuide R3-40 hand control transom mount trolling motor, a go-to choice for freshwater anglers who demand reliability without the frills. Built with an aluminum alloy frame and stainless steel hinge pins, this 40-pound thrust workhorse handles the rigors of daily use on ponds, lakes, and rivers. Its 36-inch shaft and 12-volt system pair perfectly with small to medium boats, offering smooth maneuvering for targeting bass, crappie, or walleye. Whether you're stealthily drifting for panfish or powering through weed beds, the R3-40's reversible motor head and ergonomic twist-tiller handle put you in command, letting you focus on the fish instead of fighting the motor.
Why the R3-40 Stands Out on the Water
Anglers swear by the R3-40 for its no-nonsense design that punches above its weight class. The industry-leading transom mount locks securely with swing-over knobs and a tilt/stow mechanism, making deployment and storage a breeze—even in rough conditions. The powder-coated finish resists corrosion, while the powerful lower unit runs cooler to extend motor life during long days on the water.
- Quiet Operation: Slip closer to spooky fish without spooking them, thanks to the smooth, vibration-dampening props and shaft.
- Versatile Speed Control: Five forward and two reverse speeds give you granular control for trolling, spot-holding, or backing off structure.
- Ergonomic Comfort: The extendable twist-tiller adjusts to multiple angles, reducing fatigue on extended outings.
- Durability Boost: Taper-Lock mount with 7-point adjustment and a solid stainless steel prop shaft stand up to impacts and abuse.
- Easy Adjustments: One-touch depth collar lets you quickly adapt to changing water levels or cover.
Unlike flimsier models that wobble or overheat, the R3-40's black-painted aluminum shaft and rugged build deliver consistent performance season after season, backed by a solid warranty for peace of mind.
Perfect for Everyday Angling Adventures
Picture this: You're on a calm morning glass, easing your jon boat along a lily pad edge. The R3-40's hand-steer precision lets you hug contours effortlessly, while the Machete three-blade prop slices through vegetation for uninterrupted action. Ideal for kayak anglers, bass boats, or pontoons under 16 feet, it excels in freshwater scenarios where transom mounting saves bow space for gear or a second angler.
Pro tip from seasoned users: Pair it with a deep-cycle battery for all-day runtime, and use the reversible head to switch between bow and stern setups on multi-species trips. Its 42-amp draw balances power with efficiency, avoiding quick drains that cut sessions short.
Keep Your R3-40 Running Strong
Maximize longevity with simple habits: Rinse the motor after brackish exposure (though optimized for freshwater), inspect hinge pins for wear, and store vertically to prevent shaft bends. The powder coat and stainless components shrug off freshwater grime, but a quick freshwater flush after muddy launches keeps the lower unit humming. Regularly check the prop for dings—its durable design holds an edge longer than competitors, gripping water for better thrust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MotorGuide R3-40 suitable for saltwater use?
Designed primarily for freshwater, it performs best in lakes and rivers. For occasional saltwater, rinse thoroughly afterward to protect the aluminum components.
How easy is it to install the R3-40 transom mount?
Very straightforward—bolt it to the transom using the included clamps. The tilt mechanism and knobs make setup quick, often under 30 minutes for DIYers.
What boats work best with the 36-inch shaft?
Great for boats with 12-16 inches of freeboard, like jon boats, kayaks, or small bass rigs. Adjust depth easily for varying conditions.
Does the twist-tiller extend for standing operation?
Yes, the ergonomic handle extends and offers multi-position angles, ideal for both sitting and standing anglers.
How quiet is the R3-40 compared to other trolling motors?
Exceptionally quiet with minimal vibration, allowing stealthy approaches to fish without alerting them from afar.
Can the motor head rotate for different trolling directions?
Absolutely—the reversible head supports bow or backtrolling, adding versatility for various techniques.
What's the battery requirement for optimal performance?
A 12-volt deep-cycle battery rated at least 100Ah pairs perfectly, supporting full-day use at moderate speeds.
MotorGuide tiller-steered trolling motors deliver value and reliability across a wide range of power options. All models feature a Machete three-blade prop.
MotorGuide 940100160 Attributes
- Water Type: Freshwater
- Steering Type: Hand Steer
- Speeds: 5 Forward Speeds And 2 Reverse Speeds
- Voltage Rating: 12 Volt
- Ampere Rating: 42 Amp
- Maximum Thrust Force (LB): 40 Pound
- Shaft Length: 36 Inch
- Mounting Type: Transom Mount
MotorGuide 940100160 Features & Benefits
- Industry-Leading Transom Mount
- Reversible Motor Head For Bow Or Backtrolling Operation
- Ergonomic, Extendable Twist-Tiller Handle
- Five Forward Speeds And Two Reverse Speeds
- Limited 3 Year Warranty
MotorGuide 940100160 Installation Instructions
MotorGuide 940100160 Technical Bulletins
R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V
The R3 Transom mount is the ultimate in strength, rigidity and durability. The aluminum alloy construction and stainless steel hinge pins make it one of the most powerful and durable trolling motors available. A classic 5 speeds forward/2 speeds reverse controls and reversible motor head create a dependable yet versatile motor. Put the control at your fingertips with the R3's ergonomic extending handle and a durable multi-position angle adjustment aluminum mount.
The R3 transom mount features aluminum alloy construction with a rugged powder coat finish.
Industry Leading Transom Mount
The R3 transom mount features aluminum allow construction with a rugged powder coat finish. Stainless hings pins provide the ultimate in strength, rigidity and durability. Includes an easy-to-use tilt/stow/deploy mechanism and swing over knobs on the clamp screws, allowing you to lock the motor to the transom.
Twist-Tiller Operation
Put the control at your fingertips with the R3's ergonomic extending handle and a durable multi-position angle adjustment aluminum mount.
Features:
- 5 speeds forward and 2 reverse
- Reversible motor head for bow or transom mount operation
- Quiet, smooth operation lets you get closer to the fish
- Ergonomic, extending handle puts control at your fingertips
- Taper-Lock Mount with 7-point adjustment
- Black painted aluminum shaft
- Solid aluminum and steel lower unit with powder coat finish
- Stainless steel propeller shaft
- Powerful lower unit runs cooler and lasts longer
- One-touch, rapid slide-depth adjustment collar
Control type: manual control. The aluminum alloy structure and stainless steel hinge pins make it one of the most powerful and durable trolling motors available. R3 even...
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V
Who is the MotorGuide?How to describe MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V?
What is the working voltage of the product?
Is this product suitable for fresh or salt water?
What is the input voltage range?
What is the mounting type of the product?
What is the weight of the product?
What is the serie of the product?
What is the shaft length (inches) of the product?
What is the steering type of the product?
How to mount or what is the mounting style of MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V?
What is the thrust (pounds) of the product?
Is this product has Built-In Transducer?
Is this product has Autopilot feature?
What is the control type of the product?
Who is the MotorGuide?
How to describe MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V?
What is the working voltage of the product?
Is this product suitable for fresh or salt water?
What is the input voltage range?
What is the mounting type of the product?
What is the weight of the product?
What is the serie of the product?
What is the shaft length (inches) of the product?
What is the steering type of the product?
How to mount or what is the mounting style of MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V?
What is the thrust (pounds) of the product?
Is this product has Built-In Transducer?
Is this product has Autopilot feature?
What is the control type of the product?
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MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V Technical Specifications
| Type: | |
|---|---|
| Vendor: |
MotorGuide |
| Weight: |
22.8 lb |
| Voltage - Input Range (Volts): |
12v |
| Built-In Transducer: |
No |
| Thrust (Pounds): |
40 lbs |
| Salt Water/Fresh Water: |
Fresh |
| Shaft Length (Inches): |
36" |
| Mounting Style: |
Transom |
| Control Type: |
Twist Tiller |
| Autopilot: |
No |
| Series: |
R3 |
| Product Manual: |
MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V User Reviews
MotorGuide R3-40 Hand Control Transom Mount - 03MT - 40lbs-36"-12V Shipping & Return
| Shipping Weight: |
22.8 lb |
|---|---|
| Box Sizes: |
6.00 (h) x 16.00 (w) x 47.00 (l) |
| Cubic Feet: |
4512.0 |
| Returnable: |
Yes |
| P65: |
Yes |
For detailed shipping policy please check our Shipping Policy and you can find our Return and Refund Policy here.



