Best Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Options for Easy Trolling and Remote Control
Answering the demand for safer, simpler control of a secondary trolling or kicker motor, this guide highlights top auxiliary motor steering kits. These kits let you steer a kicker or auxiliary engine using your main steering wheel, improving maneuverability and safety on boats with smaller secondary motors. Best for anglers, small-boat owners, and charter operators needing precise, single-handle control while maintaining main engine visibility and control.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7 | Boat owners with single consolidated helm | Customizable fit with 24″ zinc-plated rod |
| Marinetech Panther ATV Panther 552401 | Remote steering of trolling motors up to 25 HP | Quick installation, durable zinc-plated steel |
| Marinetech Panther 552400 Panther | Marine trolling motors up to 25 HP | Steer using main wheel; simple integration |
| VEVOR Hydraulic Steering Kit | Hydraulic systems with high durability | Built-in two-way lock and corrosion-resistant housing |
| EZ-Steer 7″ Aux Offset (Bulluna) | Broader offset range for varied helm setups | Continuous visibility and main/kicker efficiency |
Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7
Best for: Small-boat owners who want to connect their kicker motor to the primary steering wheel with a straightforward setup. The kit includes a 24″ zinc-plated rod for durability and can be cut to size for a custom fit, aiding precise alignment. Choose this if you value a simple, mechanical linkage and direct wheel control.
Why selected: It provides a direct, wheel-to-kicker linkage ideal for boats using a primary outboard and a separate kicker. The adjustable rod length supports fitment in various helm configurations.
Limitation: Installation requires aligning the kicker’s steering geometry to the main helm; ensure room for the rod and connectors to avoid interference with your seating or console.
Marinetech Panther ATV Panther 552401
Best for: Anglers with trolling motors up to 25 HP who want a quick-install, remote steering solution. The kit uses durable zinc-plated steel and is designed for straightforward mounting and operation from the main helm.
Why selected: It offers a robust build with corrosion resistance and easy installation, making it a practical upgrade for boats needing reliable secondary steering.
Limitation: Works best within the specified horsepower range; verify your trolling motor horsepower before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
Marinetech Panther 552400 Panther
Best for: Boat owners who want to steer their trolling motor using the main wheel and maintain a simple, integrated system. The kit is designed to support trolling engines up to 25 HP.
Why selected: It emphasizes compatibility with the main helm while enabling separate control of the auxiliary motor, reducing the complexity of dual steering arrangements.
Limitation: Ensure your helm can accommodate the linkage without obstructing pedestal space or foot pedals during operation.
VEVOR Hydraulic Steering Kit 90HP
Best for: Boats needing durable hydraulic steering with a built-in two-way lock to minimize rebound torque. Suitable for higher-demand setups or saltwater environments where reliability is critical.
Why selected: The kit combines hardware resilience with a locking valve to stabilize steering under torsion, enhancing control during high-speed maneuvers or choppy water.
Limitation: Hydraulic systems require careful bleeding and routing of hoses; improper installation can affect responsiveness and safety.
EZ-Steer Universal 4″ Aux Offset (Bulluna)
Best for: Boats needing a compact offset option to manage auxiliary engine steering from the main helm. Ideal for smaller helm setups or boats with tight cockpit space.
Why selected: Emphasizes centralized steering with maintained visibility and connection during primary power runs, boosting safety and ease of use.
Limitation: The 4″ offset may be less adaptable for larger helm configurations; verify clearance around the wheel and dash before purchase.
EZ-Steer Universal 7″ Aux Offset (Bulluna)
Best for: Users needing a broader offset range to accommodate larger helm consoles or unusual cockpit layouts. This option supports more flexible installation profiles.
Why selected: Combines centralized steering, continuous operation, and improved efficiency for main/kicker combinations, which can improve handling and fuel economy on longer trips.
Limitation: A larger offset may require more space and precise alignment during setup; confirm your helm space and cable routing before purchase.
Buying Guide
- What is your boat’s primary steering setup? If you rely on a single wheel, choose a kit that links the kicker or auxiliary motor to that wheel with minimal slack.
- Horsepower compatibility matters. Most kits cover up to 25 HP trolling motors; verify your engine’s horsepower before selecting a kit.
- Installation complexity. Hydraulic kits offer strong performance but require more careful routing and bleeding; mechanical linkages are typically simpler to install.
- Material durability. Look for zinc-plated or stainless-steel components in marine environments to resist corrosion.
- Space and helm geometry. Ensure the chosen offset length or rod position fits your boat’s helm layout and does not impede movement or visibility.
- Maintenance accessibility. Choose kits with straightforward adjustment points and replaceable components to shorten downtime.
FAQ
- What is an auxiliary motor steering kit used for?
– It allows you to steer a secondary trolling or kicker motor from the main helm for easier maneuvering and improved control. - Can I use any kit with any boat?
– Most kits specify horsepower ranges and mounting compatibility; verify both before purchasing to ensure proper fit. - Are hydraulic kits harder to install than mechanical ones?
– Yes, hydraulic systems require careful hose routing and bleeding; mechanical linkages are typically simpler but may offer different performance characteristics. - What should I consider about offset length?
– Offset length affects helm clearance and control feel; ensure sufficient space around the wheel and dash to operate smoothly. - Do these kits affect main engine steering?
– They are designed to work with the main wheel, enabling synchronized steering of both motors when installed correctly.