How to Shock Cord a Kayak Rudder

When transporting a kayak, an unsecured rudder flops around. The movement can twist the rudder cords, which makes a mess that you must untangle before your next kayaking trip. In worst case scenarios while car-topping, a swinging rudder could break your rear window or come completely off the boat. To prevent the mess, damage or loss of a rudder, install a bungee cord designed to prevent the rudder from flopping around. Once installed, it holds the rudder in place during transport.

Things You'll Need

  • Rudder rest
  • Drill
  • 3/16-inch drill bit
  • Screwdriver bit
  • 2, 1/4-inch stainless steel screws, 1/4-inch long
  • Marine sealant
  • Bungee cord
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fold the rudder so it sits centered on the kayak's rear deck.

    • 2

      Place a rudder rest (a V-shaped piece of plastic designed to hold the rudder in place) under the blade 3 inches from the end of the rudder.

    • 3

      Use the the holes on the rudder rest as a template for drilling two 3/16-inch pilot holes into the kayak. A rudder rest has four holes. Two holes hold the rest to the kayak, and the other two hold a length of bungee cord.

    • 4

      Screw in 1/4-inch stainless steel screws through the holes in the rudder rest and into the pilot holes you drilled.

    • 5

      On the inside of the kayak, spread a marine sealant around the screws to close any gaps that might allow water to penetrate into the boat.

    • 6

      Thread one end of a bungee cord through one of the bungee holes. Wrap it over the rudder and through the other bungee hole. Secure each end with an overhand knot. Size the bungee cord to just fit over the rudder when stretched.