Need to replace EZ Steer set-up, need alternatives

[biederboat]

I just replace my main outboard with a new Honda 90HP. Coincidentally, the EZ steer main motor bracket turned out to be nearly broken and wasn't looking like a good fit anyway. A call to EZ steer confirmed they have a special Honda bracket and I need to replace BOTH brackets to the tune of $150. I'm not all that fond of this set-up and was considering going to the quick-release type of solid-linkage that works on the front on the motors. Will this type of set-up work where the trolling motor sits higher than the main motor? I have a step transom so the little Honda sits about 6" higher. It looks like I might even have to fabricate a custom connecting rod since, from a straight line path, it looks like my splashwell might interfere with the bracket.

Any suggestions or alternatives (other than things like a TR-1, out of budget range for now)?

Thanks,
Biederboat

[Roperguy]

Biederboat,
Depends on your boat as to how many options you have. (i.e. I have an Arima, so my options are limited)
Maury

[Moldy45]

You can make that work on your setup,it just takes thought.
I have made them work on a few friends boats.It maybe making new brackets to connect to the motors but it can be done

[biederboat]

Originally Posted by Moldy45

You can make that work on your setup,it just takes thought.
I have made them work on a few friends boats.It maybe making new brackets to connect to the motors but it can be done

Made it happen, had to bend the bar twice, might need to tweak it. I didn't realize Joe's carried this set-up, got it w/ their 20% off coupon.

Thanks,
Biederboat

[goatram]

Sweet
Got pics of it to show and tell

[biederboat]

Originally Posted by goatram

Sweet
Got pics of it to show and tell

I will try and remember to take & post tomorrow. Basically I had to make a double bend (one at each end) to make it work, straight line was no way. There's still a bit of interference like with the trolling motor mount lock but I'm sure I can make it work.

Biederboat

[AlK]

I made my own solid connector. Purchased a piece of 3/8" stainless rod and threaded both ends and bent it, it works good.

[Jason S]

Second the other set up from the front. I made brackets on my woodworking bandsaw to attach to the motors. The big motor usually won;t need a bracket as there are usually two holes for steering connection. Little one had two holes so bracket went there.

Worst part of it for me was finding 3/8-24 all thread in SS> Tacoma Screw had it up here. Double bends in the rod connecting the two will allow either motor to be down with the other up. Or both in the same direction. Also allows for easy disconnect should I need to steer by hand (nice to chase a fish in traffic, or backing bottom fishing).

See if I can even find the camera and show you mine tomorrow. I could have done a strait rod or one bend rod probably if my kicker wasn't mounted on the Stbd side of the boat. The just balls and quick dissconnects you can buy seperate for about $45 for the set. Allthread will cost you a little more. For a little more than the $45 they have a set with stainless rod but it is not long enough sometimes. I like to tinker too.

[biederboat]

I just noticed (I'm not the most observant fellow) that the set-up I have is exactly the same as on the back of the package for this linkage (Stearns Motor Link). Only exception is that my trolling motor is clamped directly to the transom, doesn't sit on a bracket.

Biederboat

[RiverJohn]

I tried an EZ steer when I first took delivery of my boat.

Horrible turning radius, if I was in a real tight spot I had to disconnect the rod to get out.

Never again !

I found a way to ante' up the $$ for a TR-1.

Quite simply - the best unit for trolling I have ever seen.

Including very sharp turns and precise speed control.

I would not waste any more time with steering arms.