The best auxiliary steering kits for trolling motors improve control, reduce steering effort, and extend boat versatility. This guide highlights five solid options for different boating setups, from saltwater craft to kayaks. It’s ideal for anglers who want better steering with their main wheel or trolling motor, and for boaters who need a robust, corrosion-resistant kit. The buyer’s picks below are organized to match common needs: compatibility, durability, ease of installation, and real-world usefulness on the water.
Summary table of selected products:
- Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk — Best overall steel construction for saltwater use.
- Marinetech Panther 552400 — Best for trolling engines up to 25 HP with main-wheel control.
- Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – SS — Best stainless steel option for corrosion resistance.
- NyVoozy NK-180s Triangle — Best for NK-180S kayak trolling setups and versatility.
- Brocraft Kayak Motor Steering Arm — Best CNC-machined aluminum arm with multiple adjustment holes.
Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk
What it is: An auxiliary steering kit designed to steer a trolling motor using the main steering wheel. This zinc bulk version prioritizes durability in saltwater environments. Best for boaters who want a straightforward, rugged upgrade that integrates with existing steering systems. The kit is suitable for vessels where a second steering linkage is desired for redundancy or improved control on larger boats.
Best for: Anglers and recreational boaters who want a robust, low-maintenance steering link between their trolling motor and main wheel in saltwater conditions. The zinc construction offers corrosion resistance and a focus on long-term durability.
Why chosen: It provides a simple, direct upgrade path to add steering authority from the primary helm. Suitable for boats that currently rely on a trolling motor for steering assistance but lack a second control point. The zinc bulk design emphasizes sturdiness in demanding marine environments.
Limitations: This kit may require compatible mounting hardware or adapters depending on your boat’s transom setup. Check compatibility with your trolling motor’s shaft diameter and your main wheel linkage before purchase.
attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7
What it is: A steering kit that connects your main steering wheel to a kicker outboard, enabling unified control. It features a 24″ zinc-plated rod and allows you to cut the connector rod to fit your configuration. This kit is designed for boats that want synchronized steering between primary and auxiliary engines.
Best for: Boat owners who use a kicker motor as a secondary propulsion or backup and want cohesive steering with their main helm. This option is well-suited to boats where the kicker is used in conjunction with the primary engine for improved maneuverability.
Why chosen: The product’s 24″ zinc-plated rod offers durability and a customizable fit, which is useful for tailing to different transom layouts. It’s a practical choice for users seeking a seamless, single-handle steering experience across engines.
Caution: Ensure you have adequate space and mounting points to accommodate the additional linkage. Misalignment can affect steering responsiveness, so precise adjustment is necessary during installation.
Marinetech Panther 552400 Panther Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit
What it is: A steering kit designed to let you control a trolling motor with your main wheel, enabling full control of trolling engines up to 25 HP. This kit emphasizes compatibility with popular trolling-motor configurations and aims to simplify helm management for anglers and small-boat operators.
Best for: Boats using trolling motors up to 25 HP who want to consolidate control at the main helm. This is a solid choice for freshwater or saltwater applications where reliability and straightforward installation are valued.
Why chosen: It pairs well with standard trolling setups, making it easier to steer the trolling engine without relying on separate handheld controls. The kit’s emphasis on compatibility with main-wheel operation helps maintain intuitive handling on the water.
Limitation: Compatibility is tied to motor horsepower and mounting points. Verify your trolling motor’s specifications to ensure full functionality with this kit.
Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – SS
What it is: A stainless steel steering kit designed for saltwater use, complete with a 24″ stainless steel connecting rod, quick disconnects, and ball studs for attaching to engine brackets. Stainless construction aims to resist corrosion and provide a long-lasting steering solution.
Best for: Saltwater anglers and boaters who want a stainless option that will withstand harsh marine conditions and frequent exposure to salt spray and humidity.
Why chosen: The stainless steel components reduce corrosion risk and enhance durability in saltwater fleets. The quick-disconnects and ball studs simplify installation and maintenance, contributing to a reliable steering upgrade.
Limitation: Stainless hardware can be heavier than aluminum options. Weight considerations and mounting alignment should be checked during installation to ensure smooth operation.
NyVoozy NK-180s Marine Steering Triangle
What it is: A black powder-coated aluminum steering triangle designed for NK-180S kayak trolling motors and similar stern-mounted units. It emphasizes compatibility with NK-180S and other auxiliary outboard motors, with features aimed at simple, secure mounting.
Best for: Kayak owners using NK-180S or similar trolling motors who want a precise steering triangle that provides stable control and easy installation.
Why chosen: The kit’s design targets NK-180S compatibility while remaining adaptable to other stern-mounted trolling motors. It helps optimize steering with a minimal, corrosion-resistant aluminum framework.
Limitation: While marketed as compatible with NK-180S, verify your exact motor model and bolt pattern to ensure a perfect fit, as mounting holes and cable routing can vary across models.
Brocraft Kayak Motor Steering Arm
What it is: Marine-grade T6 aluminum steering arm for kayak trolling motors with a universal 4-hole adjustment design. It features four adjustment holes to fine-tune cable routing and helps control steering with a compact, durable arm.
Best for: Kayak users who want a versatile, CNC-machined aluminum steering arm with multiple adjustment options to fit different kayak setups and shaft diameters.
Why chosen: The aluminum construction offers a balance of strength and weight. The adjustable holes enable precise alignment for consistent steering feel across varied mounting configurations.
Caution: Confirm shaft diameter compatibility (7/8″ to 1-1/2″) to ensure the steering arm fits your trolling motor. Misfit can lead to improper steering geometry.
Buying Guide
What should I consider before buying an auxiliary steering kit?
Think about your boat type, trolling motor horsepower, and how you plan to use the helm. Consider material (stainless vs. aluminum vs. zinc) for corrosion resistance, mounting compatibility with your motor, and whether you need a quick-disconnect feature for easy removal.
Is stainless steel always best for saltwater?
Stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance, especially in saltwater environments. However, ensure the kit includes compatible fasteners and fittings for long-term durability. Weight and rigidity may matter on smaller boats.
Do these kits work with all trolling motors?
Not universally. Compatibility depends on the motor model, shaft diameter, and mounting brackets. Verify that the kit’s rod length and mounting interface align with your trolling motor and main helm setup.
How do I install an auxiliary steering kit?
Follow manufacturer instructions, verify all mounting points, and ensure proper alignment of the steering linkage. Test-fish at low speed to adjust tension and control range before full operation.
What is the best option for kayaks?
For kayaks, look for a steering triangle kit or a dedicated kayak steering arm designed for NK-180S or similar motors. Prioritize lightweight aluminum with secure attachment points and simple cable routing for a responsive, stable feel on the water.
What are common installation pitfalls?
Common issues include misaligned linkages, excessive play in the steering rod, and interference with rudder or paddle operations. Double-check clearances and ensure that you can operate both helm and trolling motor without binding.
Quick comparison at a glance
- Best overall: Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk — rugged, saltwater-ready, straightforward installation.
- Best for dual-engine control: attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit — unified steering for main and kicker engines.
- Best stainless: Auxilary Motor Steering Kit – SS — stainless steel for corrosion resistance and long life.
- Best kayak compatibility: NyVoozy NK-180s Triangle — designed for NK-180S and similar stern-mounted motors.
- Best for kayaks with multiple adjustments: Brocraft Kayak Motor Steering Arm — CNC aluminum with multiple mounting holes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an auxiliary steering kit used for? It connects the trolling motor or secondary engine to the main helm for consolidated control.
- Can I install these kits myself? Yes, most kits are designed for DIY installation, but follow the instructions carefully and consider professional help for complex installations.
- Are these kits suitable for saltwater and freshwater? Many are designed for saltwater, but always verify material compatibility and corrosion resistance with your water type.
- What should I check before buying? Confirm compatibility with your trolling motor model, shaft diameter, and mounting brackets, plus whether you need quick-disconnect features for easy removal.
- Do I need new hardware with these kits? Some kits include necessary hardware, but you may need replacements to fit your specific boat layout.
Buying these kits can improve steering precision and control across vessels that rely on trolling motors. Review the compatibility notes for each product, then select the option that best matches your boat type, motor configuration, and maintenance preferences. The right auxiliary steering kit helps ensure safer, smoother handling on the water.