Steering on your kicker

[AlK]

This is how I connected the kicker to the big Merc.

 

[Whole in the Water]

This is how I connected the kicker to the big Merc.

I have a similar set up. Do you get much vibration with this set up when the kicker is running?

 

[AlK]

This is a new boat to me, so I really don't know, but on my previous boat I had the same set up and had absolutely no vibration.

 

[pescador]

Did you fabricate it or buy off shelf? If bought off shelf, who manufactures it?

 

[coholips]

Panther Marine makes them.

 

[AlK]

Other than the clips and ball studs made the rest myself.

 

[Canso]

I've seen the ball studs at Fastenal then use some ready rod.
but can't seem to find them in stainless

http://www.fastenal.com/web/Search.ex?action=productSearch&searchterm=quick+ball+joint

 

[Time]

Canso
You need a marine store.
Find a shop that deals with Payne Marine from Victoria (wholesale only).
They list the fittings you need on page 97 of their catalogue for a 3/8" rod size which is a good size.
http://www.paynesmarine.com/documents/Vol 10 Online PDF/Steering & Controls.pdf
Alternatively try West Marine or other shops of that type.

Tip: Don't use pre-threaded readi-rod. Get and thread a piece of 3/8 stainless rod.
The threads on the readi-rod can scratch your gel coat.

Tip #2:
Get a pool noodle or some other floatation material with a hole through the centre.
Feed the rod through the centre and tape the ends onto the rod away from the connection.
Test for buoyancy in a tub or at shore so if dropped overboard it will float.
Don't ask how I learned the need for this.

 

[dss]

Also you can use shrink tube over the threaded rod to prevent scratching.

 

[wolf]

OR fuel line slides right over top and cut the fuel line for anti vibration make your own cusion washers any thickness you want and likke fabbing you will find the thickness you will need...
wolf

 

[Canso]

This is what I put on my sled, 5/16" ball ends, ready rod and cover the rod with vulcanizing rubber tape, rigged for under $20. I can easily steer with the tiller or the steering wheel upfront.
For the ocean boat I’m currently rigging a 15hp pro kicker with TR1 gold Auto pilot. Then the wife can read her book and the kids can play on the floor while daddy works in the back