How to Mount a Kayak Rudder

A kayak is a small boat with a covered deck, a spraydeck and a small cockpit. Just like canoes, kayaks are also loved with a help of a double-blade paddle. A rudder is a small device used for steering a boat, in this case a kayak. If your kayak does not have a rudder, you might want to learn how to properly install it. The rudder will help you in tracking and paddling and furthermore, enhance the efficiency and performance of your kayak.

Things You'll Need

  • Saw horse
  • Marker
  • Jigsaw
  • Power saw or
  • Adhesive
  • Drill bit or
  • Power drill
  • Screws
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare you kayak for the installation by placing it on a pair of saw horses, making sure that it is secure and that it doesn't move at all.

    • 2

      Prepare the tubing from the rudder kit for the installment, by cutting their ends at a 45 degree angle. Almost every manufacturer has a ready made installation kit with a rudder, matching screws, retraction rope and other elements. Be sure to obtain a quality rudder installation set, one that is compatible an suitable for your kayak.

    • 3

      Mark and drill the holes for the rudder base, where the installation kit manual indicates. Note that the base of a rudder is always the first element to be installed and mounted on the kayak.

    • 4

      Mount the base of the rudder on your kayak. First apply a little adhesive around the holes you drilled and then place the tubing through the holes and inside the kayak. There can't be any adhesive inside the tubing since the tubing will accommodate the cables for the rudder.

    • 5

      Place the controlling cables of the rudder inside the tubing, connecting one end to the rudder and the other to the foot peg in the kayak.

    • 6

      Attach the retracting rope of the kayak, connecting one end to the rudder and then the other to another location on the kayak, where you can easily reach it. Note that some instruction manual will suggest a place for the blade retraction bracket, so you can follow their instruction.