Auxiliary Motor Steering

Auxiliary motor steering systems provide a seamless way to control your kicker or trolling motor directly from your boat's main steering wheel. These specialized linking systems connect your primary outboard or sterndrive to a secondary auxiliary engine—typically up to 25 horsepower—allowing you to pilot both motors simultaneously without manually adjusting the kicker from the transom. For anglers who troll or rely on a backup motor for shallow-water navigation, auxiliary steering transforms boat handling and eliminates the need to constantly shift positions while fishing.

How Auxiliary Motor Steering Works

Most auxiliary motor steering solutions use one of two approaches: mechanical tie-rod systems or cable-based linkages. Mechanical systems employ a self-adjusting stainless steel rod that physically connects the steering brackets on both engines, automatically compensating for changes in motor tilt or position. Cable-based systems integrate with existing hydraulic steering setups, using a heavy-duty marine cable to transfer steering input from the main engine's hydraulic cylinder to the auxiliary motor's tiller. Both approaches keep your hands free and your view unobstructed, which is critical for safely maneuvering in current, wind, or tight fishing spots.

Key Benefits for Boaters

Installing an auxiliary motor steering kit delivers practical advantages beyond convenience. With synchronized steering control, you maintain better boat positioning during trolling runs, reducing drift and improving bait presentation. The systems also enhance safety by keeping the operator at the helm rather than leaning over the stern to manually guide a kicker motor. Most kits are designed for straightforward installation with included mounting hardware, stainless steel or powder-coated brackets, and corrosion-resistant components that stand up to saltwater and freshwater environments alike.

Top Brands in Auxiliary Motor Steering

When selecting an auxiliary steering system, brand reputation and engineering matter. EZ-Steer is widely recognized for its patented self-adjusting rod technology that automatically extends and retracts as the auxiliary motor is raised or lowered, ensuring consistent steering response in all positions. Seastar Solutions offers hydraulic tie bar kits and kicker cables engineered to integrate with their industry-standard hydraulic steering cylinders, providing smooth manual control of auxiliary engines. Teleflex supplies Extreme-series cables used in many tie-bar applications, known for durability and compatibility with both mechanical and hydraulic setups. Panther manufactures a range of trolling motor tie bar kits and electro-steer systems, including both manual linkage kits and electric actuator models for hands-free kicker control.

Choosing the Right System

Selecting the correct auxiliary steering kit depends on your engine configuration, transom spacing, and whether you run mechanical cable or hydraulic steering on your main engine. Measure the center-to-center distance between your engines and note the tilt-tube design of your kicker motor. Most kits accommodate engines mounted 9 to 16 inches apart and are compatible with threaded tilt tubes found on popular outboard brands. If your main engine uses hydraulic steering, look for kits specifically designed to connect to the steering cylinder. For cable-steered mains, a mechanical tie-rod system typically offers the simplest installation and most universal fit across different boat models.