I have a 4 stroke 6 hp kicker and love it. It will run all day on next to nothing for fuel,perfect on flat or slightly choppy days. Now put a 3 foot swell into the mix and the kicker becomes useless and dangerous. I would think twice about taking the trolling plate off. It's great to have for the rough days and with the kicker you have the best of both worlds. Just a thought. I am in the process of setting my 115 up with a plate and found it interesting to read your post.
