Best 5 HP Kicker Motors for Small Boats: Durable, Easy Lift Options
Answering buyers seeking reliable 5 HP kicker motors and sturdy brackets for small boats. This guide focuses on accessories that support easy mounting, solid lift, and long-lasting durability. Ideal for anglers, compact sailboats, and canoes needing a dependable auxiliary motor. Each option is evaluated for typical use cases, such as lightweight setups, simple transom mounting, and compatibility with 2-stroke engines. The table below summarizes key details to compare at a glance.
| Product | Motor Type | Best For | Mounting Notes | Max Load / HP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket | 2-stroke Outboard Bracket | Light-to-moderate 20HP setups | 304 stainless, manual lift | Up to 20HP |
| YaeMarine 2 Stroke Bracket | 2-stroke Outboard Bracket | All-around 2-stroke power | Stainless construction, tall lift | Up to 25HP |
| Mojiate 2 Stroke Bracket | 2-stroke Outboard Bracket | Balanced light-to-midweight motors | Aluminum frame, plastic mount | 7.5–20HP |
| Zohisin Adjustable Bracket | 2-stroke Bracket | Adjustable heights for varied transoms | Aluminum, spring-assisted lift | 2–20HP |
| Vinland Marine Bracket | Aluminum Bracket | 7.5–20HP engines on jon boats | PP base, five-position | 7.5–20HP |
Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket Kicker
The Haida Bracket is designed for 2-stroke motors up to 20HP. It uses a 304 stainless steel frame with a plastic base and offers a 4-7/16″ by 5-11/16″ mounting footprint, plus a roller size of 8-1/4″ by 10-3/8″. This model requires manual lifting to raise and lower the motor. Best for lightweight to mid-weight auxiliary installations where corrosion resistance and straightforward mounting are priorities. Consider this option if you want a robust, stainless steel frame paired with a simpler, manual lift operation.
Best for: small leisure boats needing a durable, corrosion-resistant bracket for up to 20HP two-stroke motors. Limitations: manual lift means ongoing effort to raise/lower heavier motors. Choose this if you prefer stainless steel durability and a simple, economical rig.
YaeMarine 2 Stroke Bracket for Up to 25HP
The YaeMarine bracket is all stainless stamped construction designed for 2-stroke outboards and can bear up to 110 lbs. It features a motor pad width of 7.9″ and a vertical lift of 10.5″. The mounting bracket is 5-3/4″ wide by 4-3/8″ deep, with side lengths of 6.3″ and 8.15″. Not recommended for 4-stroke motors. This option suits boats requiring strong stainless support for up to 25HP two-stroke engines and taller lifting clearance. Best for: anglers or cruisers using 2-stroke motors who need sturdy, corrosion-resistant mounting with ample lift. Limitation: not suitable for 4-stroke motors.
Mojiate 2 Stroke Motor Bracket
The Mojiate outboard motor stand accommodates 7.5 HP to 20 HP engines with a maximum weight of 52 kg (115 lbs). It uses a reinforced welded aluminum frame, heavy-duty stainless springs, and a solid plastic mounting board for durability and easy motor lifting and balance. It also offers a 5-position adjustable locking height. Best for: small to mid-sized boats needing a robust but lighter-weight aluminum frame with good height adjustability. Limitation: not recommended for 4-stroke motors.
Zohisin Adjustable Bracket for 2-Stroke
The Zohisin mounting bracket is designed for most 2-stroke 2–20 HP motors and features adjustable heights in a sturdy aluminum construction. It provides stable support and a smooth lifting action with a spring-assisted mechanism. Best for: users needing adjustable motor height across varying transom setups. Limitation: general design may require precise alignment during install to ensure smooth operation.
Vinland Marine Aluminum Bracket
Vinland Marine offers a rust-resistant anodized aluminum bracket with a black polypropylene (PP) mounting base. It provides five vertical adjustable positions and supports engines from 7.5 to 20 HP, up to 115 lbs. It is well-suited for jon boats, bass trackers, and canoes needing reliable kicker motor mounting with a durable, corrosion-resistant base. Best for: compact boats requiring adjustable height and a robust, lightweight aluminum frame. Caution: confirm compatibility with your mounting plate and gearcase size before purchase.
Mud Motor Short Tail Drive Kit
Short tail surface drive or mud motor kits resemble an outboard setup for 5.5–6.5 HP alternatives, designed for shallow-water propulsion. They are heavy (around 25 kg) and color-coded for power choices. Best for: specialized applications in swampy or shallow waters requiring maneuverability in tight spaces. Limitation: not a standard outboard and may require different mounting considerations.
TOLOT 4-Blade Propeller for 9.9–20 HP
TOLOT offers a 10″ aluminum propeller with 4 blades, optimized for Yamaha 9.9–20 HP engines and other 8-spline gearcases. It features a 5″ pitch for high thrust, designed to handle heavy duty tasks and high-load conditions. Best for: kicker setups where extra thrust is needed for larger boats or loaded conditions. Limitation: intended for compatibility with specific gearcases, so verify spline count and model compatibility before purchasing.
TrollMaster TM203HWKIT PRO3 Plus
The TrollMaster PRO3 Plus hardware kit is motor-specific and includes components such as servo motors, linkage connections, mounting brackets, electrical connectors, and installation instructions. Best for: upgrading or configuring trolling setups on Mercury/Nissan/Tohatsu five to six-horsepower classes. Limitation: kit contents are motor-specific, so verify fit with your engine model and year.
Buying Guide
What should I consider when choosing a kicker motor bracket?
- Motor type and HP: Most brackets in this guide are for 2-stroke motors up to 20–25HP. Ensure your engine type and horsepower fit the bracket’s rated capacity.
- Material and corrosion resistance: Stainless steel and anodized aluminum brackets offer better durability in saltwater environments. Consider base materials (plastic vs. PP) for weight and mounting compatibility.
- Lift mechanism: Manual lift saves cost but requires effort. Spring-assisted or adjustable-height brackets reduce strain and improve positioning accuracy.
- Transom compatibility: Check mounting footprint, width, and height to match your transom and motor pad dimensions. Taller lifts help with prop clearance and steering geometry.
- Weight handling: Max load ratings ensure safe support for the engine plus mounting hardware. Heavier brackets are often more rigid but heavier to handle during installation.
Who should choose each type of bracket?
- Haida: Ideal for budget-conscious buyers needing stainless durability with a compact mounting footprint.
- YaeMarine: Best for those requiring tall lift and higher HP tolerance with strong stainless construction.
- Mojiate: Good for light-to-midweight setups featuring a robust aluminum frame and adjustable height.
- Zohisin: Suitable for users needing multiple height options and spring-assisted lifting for easy use.
- Vinland Marine: Suitable for jon boats and canoes, offering corrosion resistance and programmable height steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do these brackets work with 4-stroke motors?
Most listed products specify 2-stroke compatibility or caution against 4-stroke use. Always confirm by model and motor type before buying. - Can I mount a heavier motor than the bracket’s HP rating?
It’s not recommended. Exceeding the rated HP or weight can compromise stability and safety. Consider brackets with higher load ratings. - Is a spring-assisted lift necessary?
Not strictly, but it improves ease of use and motor height consistency, especially on larger or heavier 2-stroke engines. - What maintenance is required for aluminum brackets?
Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use, inspect fasteners, and lubricate moving parts to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. - Are these brackets compatible with all transom designs?
Most are designed for standard transoms; verify mounting footprint and pad dimensions against your boat’s transom specifications. - What is the best choice for a canoe or small bass boat?
For lightweight setups, consider Vinland Marine or Mojiate brackets for balance, ease of lift, and corrosion resistance.