Tying Main and Kicker together

[KRAMER2000]

I have a Yamaha 150 and Yamaha t8 on a 2007 Ranger 1860. The Kicker is on the driver (starboard) side. I would like to tie the two together for steering. Any thoughts on the best system? The kicker accelerator is a electronic dial on the dash. Tried to steer with big motor and also extended handle on kicker. Didn't like the way either worked. Thanks in advance.

[walleyedmike]

Should be no big deal.

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...322&id=0000930

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...233&hasJS=true

[goose89]

X2. I've run the top choice (walleyedmike's links), the Panther adjustable bar on my last two rigs. Currently have it on an F150 and T9.9 similar to your set-up (trollmaster and tiller handle both). Best of both worlds when you get it hooked up.

[yarcraft91]

X3. My motors are different than goose89's, but I use the same type steering link and a Trollmaster. Very happy with it. I bought a stainless rod so there are no long-term issues with rust. One thing- I have to remove the link rod to tilt up either motor, but the quick-connects make that simple.

My buddy's boat (I/O main moptor) has this system:
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...-box.jsp.form1

It's also available for linking outboard-to-outboard. This system stays in place regardless of motor tilt.

[teamlund]

I use the rod also. I dont have to remove anythign to trim up or down though. Not sure what brand it is as it was installed at the lund factory. Hooking up the kicker to the helm is the best way to do it unless you are a back troller.

I hate my trollmaster.

[tubejig]

I have the bar that goes from the main to the kicker and I absolutely hate it. I have a panther electro steer I pulled off of my old boat and I can't get that thing put on my new boat fast enough.

[Hombre Robusto]

I've used the 'tie-bar' for years and have never had a problem. On the various rigs I've used it in one form or another, I've never disconnected it. I've also had the EZ-Steer on a boat that I had and it was a nightmare.

Ranger sells their deluxe version of a 'tie-bar', but it is not cheap. It runs about $250, if I remember correctly, but it is solid stainless steel.

[REW]

Kramer,
Yes, you can cople your kicker to your main motor.
But if you do, you have a major league problem in controlling your boat, when trying to work current, waves, and or back trolling.

The problem is that a kicker motor running at trolling speeds often needs to be moved - lock to lock to control the attitude of the boat in tough weather conditions.

As a result, it is nice to use a steering system for your kicker that allows you to make instant steering corrections, with as much as full lock to lock at the flick of a finger.

Take a look at "stick steering"

http://www.nicksoutboardmarine.com/steeringpg6.html

This sytem is used by many many folks with smaller motors who wish for the ultimate boat control at the flick of a finger.
Push forward on the stick and turn full lock one way. Pull back on the stick and turn full lock the other way.
Set it up beside your speed control and you are set to go.

Take care
REW

[goose89]

Nice idea. Haven't run across that yet. "Flick of a finger??" They've got bigger fingers than me, or is the box actually that small?? Looks the size of a remote throttle on the site.

[perchjerker]

I have Panther Electric Steer

works great and is very responsive. No flick of the wrist, more like a push of the button!!!