Kicker setup question.

[halas]

Is it practical to add a fixed kicker bracket to the transom of an 18' aluminum Starcraft and just stow the 9.5 Hp. short shaft Johnson tiller (60 lb.) out of the way maybe under the bow strapped down until needed? I think it would be in the way when going fast with the main motor.
Would you recommend adjustable bracket instead so it could be pulled up and out of the way?
The boat has an Johnson outboard 85 Hp.
Just got the boat last month and working on it.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Kicker setup question.

adjustable, you would pay heck getting a motor on the mount, if needed for emergency power. it looks like it had a bracket previously.

 

[Tacklewasher]

Re: Kicker setup question.

I've got a fixed mount in about the same place as the holes TD circled. I have enough room that I tilt my motor up and that get's it out of the water when going fast.

An adjustable would be better but I'm happy with my setup.

And there is no way you are going to take it on and off while out on the water. Not safely at least. Get a bracket rated for more hp than you are running and you will be fine leaving it on the back.

Mine stays on my boat (10hp Honda) and is bolted to the bracket. It will come off when I start doing fun boating in the summer, but right now I do too much fishing and it's easier to just leave it on.

 

[halas]

Re: Kicker setup question.

Yes, it did have a bracket on before.
I will go ahead with the adjustable one.
Thanks for the help...

 

[Mas]

Re: Kicker setup question.

It's not very easy to hang a motor over the stern...especially when the seas are lumpy and the winds screaming. It's easy to fall overboard. Get the adjustable!

MAS