Finding the right kicker motor mount for a pontoon boat involves balancing durability, ease of use, and compatibility with light outboard engines. This guide highlights five solid options that cater to common kicker setups, from universal brackets to stainless steel and aluminum mounts. The best choice varies by engine size, mounting surface, and how you plan to use your boat. The following picks are well-suited for pontoons, have straightforward mounting, and offer reliable vertical adjustment to adapt to changing loads and water conditions.
| Product | Best For | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit | Owners who want to steer the kicker from the main wheel | Steel with zinc-plated rod |
| Panther 55-0410 Auxiliary Bracket | Vide high-torque four-stroke trolling motors | Anodized aluminum |
| Vinland Marine 20HP Mount Bracket | Heavy-duty, larger HP keepers | 304 stainless steel / PP base |
| Vinland Marine 7.5–20HP Bracket | Versatile small-to-mid HP engines | Aluminum / PP base |
| Norestar Outboard Bracket | Compact, space-conscious transom setups | Stainless steel / aluminum |
Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7
Best for integrating the kicker steering with your main outboard, this kit connects the primary engine to the kicker for wheel-controlled steering. The 24″ zinc-plated rod offers durability in marine environments. The kit supports cutting the connector rod to fit your setup. Best for pontoon owners seeking streamlined steering with existing helm controls.
Who it’s best for: boaters who want synchronized steering between the main motor and the kicker without adding a separate control system. Why selected: broad compatibility with standard steering linkages and a long, sturdy rod for flexible mounting. Limitation: may require precise alignment during installation to prevent binding.
Panther 55-0410 Auxiliary Outboard 4-Stroke Bracket – 10″
Best for four-stroke trolling motors that need reliable vertical adjustment, this bracket offers five vertical positions to adapt to water or load changes. The anodized aluminum bracket handles increased weight and torque, with a stainless steel hardware setup and a broad mounting board. It’s well-suited for pontoon boats facing varied load profiles or changing water conditions.
Who it’s best for: users with mid-weight, modern four-stroke auxiliary motors. Why selected: strong torsion springs and wide base provide stable support. Limitation: heavier than some compact brackets, requiring a solid transom mounting area.
Vinland Marine Outboard Bracket for 20HP
This stainless steel bracket with a black PP base provides robust support for up to 20 HP motors. The five-position spring-loaded adjustment and wide track help stabilize heavier kicker setups on a pontoon. Best for owners who need corrosion resistance and a roomy mounting footprint. Limitation: stainless components can be heavier and may require more careful mounting.
Who it’s best for: pontoon operators with up to 20 HP engines requiring durable stainless steel construction. Why selected: strong, heavy-duty frame with reinforced welds. Caution: verify weight capacity against your specific motor model.
Vinland Marine Aluminum Bracket 7.5–20HP
Best for versatility, this aluminum bracket handles 7.5–20 HP engines with a 5-position, spring-loaded adjustment. The black PP base adds mounting stability and helps resist corrosion. This option is ideal for pontoons that require a lightweight yet sturdy kicker mount with straightforward assembly.
Who it’s best for: those who want a versatile, lighter-weight bracket without sacrificing strength. Why selected: good balance of weight and rigidity. Limitation: aluminum vs. stainless may affect long-term corrosion resistance in harsh marine environments.
Norestar Outboard Bracket (Up To 20 HP)
Best for compact installations where space is a premium, this transom-mount bracket supports up to 110 lbs. It offers simple operation and a secure locking mechanism to lift or lower the motor as needed for propulsion. Suitable for smaller pontoons or boats seeking a space-saving kicker solution.
Who it’s best for: boats with tight transom clearances or smaller engines. Why selected: efficient use of limited space and straightforward mounting. Limitation: capacity may limit use with heavier or taller engines.
Buying Guide: Kicker Mount Considerations For Pontoon Boats
- Engine compatibility: Match the bracket’s weight capacity and mounting dimensions to your kicker motor’s horsepower and weight. Greater HP requires sturdier brackets and a robust transom support.
- Material choice: Stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability; aluminum is lighter and often more cost-effective but may require additional protective measures in harsh marine environments. Polypropylene bases help with mounting stability but check chemical compatibility with mounting surfaces.
- Adjustment and positioning: Look for brackets with adjustable vertical positions to accommodate water depth, load shifts, and differing trolling or cruising modes. Spring-loaded mechanisms simplify height changes.
- Mounting surface and space: Pontoon transoms vary in size and construction. Ensure the bracket’s footprint fits your pontoon’s transom area and that mounting hardware is suitable for the surface material.
- Ease of installation: Some kits include all necessary hardware and step-by-step instructions, while others require additional parts. Assess whether you can install the bracket with standard tools or need professional assistance.
- Steering compatibility: If you want the ability to steer the kicker from the main helm, consider a kit like the Attwood option or a bracket that supports integrated steering links.
- Maintenance and longevity: Choose corrosion-resistant parts and consider anti-corrosion coatings or rinse-after-use routines to extend life in saltwater environments.
- Weight and transport: Heavier brackets may demand a more reinforced transom or additional support when trailering.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a kicker motor mount? A fixture that holds a smaller auxiliary engine in place, typically on the transom, allowing stability and alignment for trolling or propulsion.
- What HP range should I expect for pontoon kicker mounts? Most mounts support 7.5–20 HP engines, with some rated up to 20 HP or 110+ lbs depending on the model.
- Do I need a stainless steel bracket for saltwater use? Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance, which is beneficial in saltwater or highly humid environments.
- Can I install a kicker mount myself? Many brackets are designed for DIY installation, but ensure you have the correct hardware and weight rating for your engine and transom.
- How do I know if a bracket fits my pontoon transom? Check mounting dimensions, weight capacity, and bolt patterns against your transom’s specifications and the motor’s weight.
- Is a steerable kicker kit necessary? If you want to steer the kicker from the main helm, choose a kit compatible with your steering setup to minimize linkage complexity.