Kayak Anchor Trolley Installation

Kayak anchor trolleys are cords on the side of a sea kayak. These cords allow a sea sock or sea anchor to be deployed from the kayak in such a manner that the ropes don't interfere with the deck riggings. Anchor trolleys span the length of the boat, allowing the sea anchor to keep the kayak in a near-static position. The trolleys also hook into a spear-like pole. The pole is inserted to the sea's floor, staking out the boat near shore.

Things You'll Need

  • Power drill
  • Silicone caulk and caulk gun
  • Marker
  • Tape measure
  • Sandpaper or small file
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the upper edge of the kayak; determine an attachment point for the line blocks. Line blocks are static-pulleys through which the anchor rope is threaded. Mark the attachment points in a straight line on the upper half of the kayak's hull. Mark the screw holes on the blocks, and drill them out. File down the drilled edges with a file or fine sandpaper.

    • 2

      Screw the blocks onto the kayak with the bolts and washers. Place the lock nuts on the inside of the kayak. Wrench them down as tightly as possible. Apply silicone caulk to the screws inside and outside the kayak. This creates a watertight seal over the drilled holes.

    • 3

      Screw in the padeyes on the front and rear of the kayak. These are the smaller rope guides. Keep them in line with the blocks. Caulk the drilled holes to ensure watertight seals.

    • 4

      Thread the rope through the blocks, moving from the rear of the kayak to the front. Thread the rope through the front padeye. Tie the end of the rope through the anchor hook with a square knot.

    • 5

      Screw in the eye hooks on the side of the kayak near the cockpit. Thread the anchor trolley's bungee cord through the eye hooks. Use the remaining eye hook to loop the trolley's bungee to a deck bungee. Use this as a securing point for the anchor rope.