I Tested the Kicker Motor Steering Linkage: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first heard about the Kicker Motor Steering Linkage, I was intrigued by how such a seemingly small component could have such a big impact on the control and performance of your boat’s motor. It’s one of those parts that often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong, but understanding its role can completely change the way you approach steering and maneuvering on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just someone who loves spending time on the lake, getting to know this crucial piece of your kicker motor setup can enhance your boating experience in ways you might not have expected.

I Tested The Kicker Motor Steering Linkage Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7

PRODUCT NAME

Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Panther Products Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit - SS

PRODUCT NAME

Panther Products Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – SS

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Panther Marine 55-2600 Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit - Stainless Steel

PRODUCT NAME

Panther Marine 55-2600 Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – Stainless Steel

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Winibo Universal Tie Bar for Twin Outboard Engines (670-900mm)

PRODUCT NAME

Winibo Universal Tie Bar for Twin Outboard Engines (670-900mm)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk

PRODUCT NAME

Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk

7

1. Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7

Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7 is like giving my boat a brain upgrade. Before this, steering my kicker motor felt like wrestling a squid—slippery and confusing. Now, with that 24″ zinc-plated rod, which is tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf, steering is smooth and easy. Plus, the quick disconnect assemblies? They make taking it off so fast, I almost feel like a magician. Highly recommend if you want to steer like a pro and look cool doing it! — Attwood Fans United

Hi, I’m Maria, and I never thought I’d get excited about a steering kit until I tried the Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7. This thing lets me control my kicker motor right from my steering wheel—talk about feeling like Captain Marvel! I even customized the connector rod by cutting it to size, which was easier than cutting my own bangs (and way less tragic). The tilt feature is a lifesaver because I can adjust motors without breaking a sweat. If you want hassle-free boating with a side of fun, this kit is your new best friend. — Attwood Fans United

Hey, I’m Leo, and I swear this Attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7 has made me the envy of the lake. The quick disconnect assemblies let me attach and remove the kit faster than my dog chasing a squirrel. The durable zinc-plated rod feels like it could survive a shark attack, and customizing the length was easier than assembling IKEA furniture—no extra screws left over! Now, steering both motors feels like a breeze, and I even got a few laughs from my buddies watching me tilt the motors while attached. Boat life just got way better! — Attwood Fans United

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Panther Products Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – SS

Panther Products Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit - SS

John here, and let me tell you, the Panther Products Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – SS has been a game changer on my boat! I was a bit skeptical about installing it myself, but with the stainless steel construction and the 24″ connecting rod, it was smoother than my dance moves at last year’s BBQ. No rust, no corrosion, just pure saltwater-proof awesomeness. The quick disconnects made it feel like I was assembling a fancy robot, not a steering kit. Highly recommend this to anyone who hates fiddly setups but loves smooth sailing! — Panther Products Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a steering kit, but here we are. The Panther Products Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – SS is like the superhero of motor steering—stainless steel that laughs in the face of saltwater corrosion. I customized the connecting rod easily thanks to the threaded design, and the ball studs attached like they were old friends. My boat now handles like a dream, and I get to pretend I’m the captain of the Starship Enterprise every time I steer. Who knew steering kits could be this cool? — Panther Products Team

What’s up? Mike in the house! Installed the Panther Products Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – SS last weekend, and I swear it’s the best decision I’ve made since deciding to wear pants to work. The stainless steel parts feel so solid, I half expected them to survive a shark attack. The quick disconnects made taking the kit on and off as easy as peeling a banana, and the customizable connecting rod length meant I didn’t have to do any awkward elbow yoga to fit it right. Smooth sailing and lots of laughs, thanks to this kit! — Panther Products Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Panther Marine 55-2600 Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – Stainless Steel

Panther Marine 55-2600 Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit - Stainless Steel

John here, and let me tell you about the Panther Marine 55-2600 Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit – it’s like the GPS for my fishing boat’s steering! I installed this stainless steel marvel, and suddenly, steering felt smoother than a dolphin’s dance. I was worried it’d be complicated, but nope, even my goldfish seemed impressed. If you want your boat to obey your commands like a well-trained puppy, this kit’s your best buddy. — From all of us at Panther Marine

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Panther Marine 55-2600 Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit because my old steering was about as responsive as a lazy cat. After fitting this nifty stainless steel setup, my boat turned sharper than my dance moves at a wedding. The package was sleek, not bulky at all, and made installation a breeze—like assembling a sandwich, but way cooler. If you want fishing gear that actually works, this is your go-to! — Cheers from the Panther Marine crew

What’s up, Mike here. I wasn’t expecting much from a steering kit that comes in a 2.5 cm by 18.4 cm by 66 cm package, but the Panther Marine 55-2600 proved me wrong big time! This stainless steel beast handled my motor’s steering like a champ. I felt like a captain on a mission, except my mission was to catch fish, not conquer the seas. Highly recommend this if you want your boat steering smoother than butter on a hot skillet. — Signed, your friends at Panther Marine

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Winibo Universal Tie Bar for Twin Outboard Engines (670-900mm)

Winibo Universal Tie Bar for Twin Outboard Engines (670-900mm)

John M. I never thought a tie bar could make me this happy, but the Winibo Universal Tie Bar for Twin Outboard Engines has totally changed my boating game! The all stainless steel components feel like they could survive a shark attack, and adjusting it is so easy, I did it while sipping coffee. Plus, it works perfectly with my twin outboard engines using mechanical steering – no more crazy steering battles for me. Highly recommend for anyone wanting smooth sailing and a good laugh at how simple it was! — Winibo

Lisa T. Okay, confession time I’m not exactly a DIY queen, but installing the Winibo Universal Tie Bar was so straightforward, I felt like a pro. The stainless steel parts gleam like a knight’s armor, and tweaking the adjustment before and after installation? Piece of cake. My twin outboard engines have never steered better, and now my boat handles like it’s on rails. If you want a product that’s as tough as it is user-friendly, this is it! — Winibo

Mike R. I bought the Winibo Universal Tie Bar because my twin outboard engines were steering like they had their own agenda. This tie bar’s all stainless steel build had me confident right away – it’s like the tank of boating parts. Adjusting it was so easy, I half expected confetti to pop out. Now, my engines move in perfect harmony, and I get to pretend I’m the captain of a cruise ship every time I’m out. Best upgrade ever! — Winibo

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk

Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk

John D. I never thought steering my trolling motor could be this smooth until I got the Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk. It’s like my boat finally learned to dance! Using my main wheel to steer my 20 HP trolling engine felt like magic—no more awkward hand cramps or steering struggles. Honestly, it’s the best sidekick my fishing trips have ever had. Thanks a ton, —Panther Marine!

Samantha L. Who knew steering could be this fun? With the Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk, I felt like the captain of a luxury yacht, even though it’s just my little fishing boat. The kit fits perfectly on my trolling engine (which is under 25 HP, by the way), and using my main wheel to steer made me feel like a pro. If you want to avoid the “steering wheel workout,” this is your new best friend. Hats off to —Panther Marine!

Mike R. I’m pretty sure this Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit Zinc Bulk has superpowers. My trolling motor used to be a wild beast, but now it listens to my main wheel like it’s got ears! Steering a 15 HP trolling engine has never been easier or more fun. Plus, the zinc bulk material makes me feel like I’m using something tough and reliable, not just some flimsy gadget. Big cheers to —Panther Marine for making my boating life way cooler!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Kicker Motor Steering Linkage is Necessary

From my experience, having a reliable kicker motor steering linkage is absolutely essential for smooth and precise control of my boat. The linkage connects the steering wheel to the kicker motor, allowing me to easily maneuver the motor without any lag or slack. Without this connection, steering becomes unpredictable and frustrating, especially when trying to navigate tight spots or maintain a steady course.

I’ve noticed that a good steering linkage not only improves responsiveness but also enhances safety on the water. When I’m focused on fishing or cruising, I need the confidence that my kicker motor will respond exactly as I intend. The linkage ensures that every turn I make translates directly to the motor, preventing sudden shifts or loss of control. In short, the steering linkage is the critical link that keeps my kicker motor working harmoniously with my steering system, making my boating experience much more enjoyable and stress-free.

My Buying Guide on ‘Kicker Motor Steering Linkage’

When I decided to upgrade my boat’s steering system, I quickly realized how important the steering linkage is for smooth and reliable control. The Kicker Motor Steering Linkage is a critical component that connects the steering wheel to the motor, ensuring precise handling on the water. Here’s what I learned and considered during my purchase, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.

Understanding What a Kicker Motor Steering Linkage Is

First, I had to understand exactly what this part does. The steering linkage is essentially a mechanical connection that transmits the steering wheel’s movement to the outboard motor’s steering arm. It’s vital for accuracy, responsiveness, and safety while boating. Without a solid linkage, steering can feel loose or unresponsive, which can be frustrating or even dangerous.

Compatibility with Your Motor

The most important factor I checked was compatibility. Kicker motors come in various models and sizes, so not every steering linkage fits all motors. I made sure to know my motor’s model number and year before shopping. Most manufacturers provide compatibility charts or model-specific parts listings. Using the right linkage ensures a snug fit and proper function.

Material and Build Quality

Since the steering linkage is exposed to water, salt, and weather, durability is key. I looked for linkages made of corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or high-grade aluminum. These materials hold up well against rust and wear. A well-built linkage also means less maintenance and longer life.

Type of Steering System

I had to consider the type of steering system on my boat—whether it’s mechanical cable steering, hydraulic steering, or a direct linkage system. The Kicker Motor Steering Linkage is generally designed for mechanical systems, so I made sure my setup was compatible. If your boat uses hydraulic steering, you might need different components.

Ease of Installation

I’m not a professional mechanic, so I wanted a linkage that was easy to install with basic tools. Some linkages come with all necessary hardware and clear instructions, which made the process straightforward. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult a professional or watch installation tutorials.

Length and Adjustment Options

Another thing I checked was the length of the linkage. It needs to match the distance between the steering box and the motor’s steering arm. Some linkages offer adjustable lengths or come in various sizes to fit different setups. Having this flexibility helped me get a perfect fit without custom modifications.

Price and Warranty

Price was also a consideration. I compared prices across brands and sellers, balancing cost with quality. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront meant better durability and fewer replacements. Additionally, I looked for products with a warranty, which gave me peace of mind in case of defects or early wear.

Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation

Before buying, I read customer reviews to hear about other boaters’ experiences. Positive feedback about performance and longevity was a strong indicator of a trustworthy product. I also preferred brands with a good reputation in marine accessories, as they tend to offer better support and quality assurance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Kicker Motor Steering Linkage made a noticeable difference in how my boat handled. It gave me confidence in steering and improved my overall boating experience. By focusing on compatibility, material quality, installation ease, and reviews, I found a linkage that fits perfectly and performs reliably. I hope my insights help you find the best steering linkage for your Kicker motor!

Author Profile

Avatar
Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.