Minn Kota 1866550 i-Pilot Bluetooth Remote

Part Information

• Part Number: 1866550
• SKU: 27-1866550
• Brand: Minn Kota
• Official Product Type: i-Pilot Bluetooth Remote (Full-Size)
• UPC: 029402042210
• Power: 3 AAA alkaline batteries (not included)
• Warranty: 2 years (manufacturer)
• Lanyard: Not included

What This Product Does

The Minn Kota 1866550 is the full-size wireless Bluetooth remote for compatible Minn Kota i-Pilot GPS trolling motor systems. It gives you complete wireless control of your i-Pilot motor from anywhere on the boat steering, motor speed, propeller on/off, Spot-Lock anchor, and other GPS navigation functions all from a larger, easy-to-read LCD screen.

It can be used as a replacement for a lost or damaged remote, or added as a second remote since compatible i-Pilot systems can be paired with multiple wireless remotes simultaneously. On compatible Ulterra motors, it also controls Auto Stow/Deploy and Power Trim.

Key Features

• Wireless Bluetooth communication with compatible i-Pilot systems
• Larger LCD screen with on-screen feedback for active functions, motor speed, propeller status, battery level, and GPS signal strength
• Ergonomic button layout for one-handed operation
• Waterproof construction
• Easy-access battery compartment (3 AAA alkaline)
• Supports multiple paired remotes use alongside a Micro Bluetooth Remote or a second full-size remote
• Controls Auto Stow/Deploy and Power Trim on compatible Ulterra models

Compatible Applications

• All Minn Kota i-Pilot GPS trolling motors with Bluetooth (look for the Bluetooth icon on the motor head)
• Freshwater and saltwater Bluetooth i-Pilot models including Terrova, Ulterra, PowerDrive with i-Pilot Bluetooth, and compatible Riptide variants
• Use as a replacement remote or as an additional remote alongside the included remote or a Micro Remote

Fitment Notice Please Read Before Ordering

• Bluetooth i-Pilot only: This remote requires a Bluetooth-enabled i-Pilot motor. Confirm your motor has the Bluetooth symbol on the motor head before ordering. Older non-Bluetooth i-Pilot systems use a different remote and are not compatible.
• Not for i-Pilot Link: This is an i-Pilot remote, not an i-Pilot Link remote. i-Pilot Link systems use a different touchscreen remote and are not compatible with the 1866550.
• Ulterra Auto Stow/Deploy and Power Trim: These functions are only available when this remote is paired with a compatible Ulterra motor. Other i-Pilot motors will use the remaining functions normally.

Parts Desk Insights

Best Use Case: The 1866550 is the right choice when you want a full-size remote with a readable screen particularly useful in bright sunlight or when wearing gloves. It’s also the go-to option for adding a second remote to a boat where two anglers want independent control, or where a remote is kept at the bow and another at the console. The Bluetooth range makes it practical for larger boats where staying close to the motor isn’t practical.

Common Issues: The most common fitment mistake is ordering this for an older non-Bluetooth i-Pilot motor or an i-Pilot Link system neither will pair with the 1866550. Check the motor head for the Bluetooth logo before ordering. If pairing fails on a compatible motor, confirm the motor’s Bluetooth is in pairing mode per the motor’s manual, and that no interference sources (other Bluetooth devices) are active nearby. Battery quality matters use fresh alkaline AAA batteries; rechargeable NiMH cells can cause erratic display or Bluetooth behaviour at lower voltages.

Related Products & Accessories

• Minn Kota 1866561 Micro Bluetooth Remote compact companion remote; can be paired and used alongside the 1866550 on the same motor
• Minn Kota 1866680 Bluetooth Heading Sensor improves i-Pilot GPS heading accuracy for AutoPilot and navigation functions
• Minn Kota 1866070 Corded Foot Pedal foot control for compatible PowerDrive and Riptide PowerDrive motors
• Minn Kota 1866081 Corded Foot Pedal foot control for Ulterra and Riptide Ulterra motors

Service Interval

No scheduled service interval. Replace AAA batteries when the LCD shows a low-battery indicator or Bluetooth range decreases noticeably. Rinse the remote with fresh water after saltwater exposure and dry before storage. Inspect the battery compartment seal annually for corrosion or moisture. Store with batteries removed if not used for extended periods.

Technical FAQ

• How do I know if my motor is Bluetooth i-Pilot compatible? Look for the Bluetooth logo on the motor head housing. If there is no Bluetooth symbol, your motor uses a different remote system and is not compatible with the 1866550.
• Can I use this remote alongside my existing remote? Yes compatible Bluetooth i-Pilot systems support multiple paired remotes. You can use this full-size remote together with a Micro Bluetooth Remote or a second 1866550.
• Does this remote work with i-Pilot Link? No. i-Pilot Link is a different system that integrates with Humminbird fishfinders and uses its own dedicated touchscreen remote. The 1866550 is for the standard Bluetooth i-Pilot system only.
• What batteries does it take? Three AAA alkaline batteries. These are not included. Minn Kota recommends standard alkaline batteries rechargeable NiMH batteries may cause inconsistent performance due to their lower terminal voltage.
• Does this remote control Spot-Lock? Yes Spot-Lock (GPS anchor) is one of the primary GPS functions controlled by this remote on all compatible i-Pilot Bluetooth motors.
• What is the wireless range? Bluetooth range varies with conditions, but Minn Kota rates the i-Pilot Bluetooth system for effective range across typical fishing boat lengths. Obstructions, interference, and battery level can affect range.