Let’s Talk About Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift from Panther is designed to ease the strain of raising and lowering auxiliary motors on boats. This 12-volt power-driven actuator can handle outboards up to 35hp or 150 pounds, and it boasts a convertible setback for versatility. It’s a convenience item, but one that could save your back and make your time on the water significantly more enjoyable.
My lower back has seen better days after years of wrestling with a temperamental kicker motor on my old fishing boat. I was tired of the awkward angles and potential for injury, so I started looking for a reliable electric lift system. I wanted something robust enough to handle my 9.9hp Yamaha and adaptable enough to fit my older transom.
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift arrived well-packaged and looked substantial right out of the box. The bracket was heavy-duty, the actuator felt strong, and all the components seemed well-made. The black powder coat finish gave it a professional look, and I appreciated the included 12′ cable with a push-button switch.
I considered a couple of other options before settling on the Panther lift. There was a manual spring-assisted lift that was cheaper, but I wanted the ease of electric operation. I also looked at a hydraulic lift, but it was significantly more expensive and seemed like overkill for my needs.
My first impression of the Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift was positive. I was excited to finally have a solution that would take the backache out of using my kicker motor, but also slightly apprehensive about the installation process on my older boat.
Real-World Testing: Putting Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift on my 18-foot aluminum fishing boat in preparation for a multi-day trip to Lake of the Woods. The lake is known for its walleye fishing, but also for its unpredictable weather, which often necessitates using the kicker motor for trolling. Installation took about two hours; the instructions were clear enough, but I had to make a few minor modifications to the transom to ensure a solid mount.
During the trip, the lift performed flawlessly in both calm and choppy conditions. The electric actuator raised and lowered the kicker motor smoothly and effortlessly, even when the boat was rocking. I particularly appreciated the ease of use; the push-button switch was simple and intuitive, and I quickly got used to positioning the motor at the perfect trolling depth.
I did encounter one minor issue after the first day: the mounting bolts loosened slightly. I tightened them with a wrench and added some thread locker, and the problem didn’t recur.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my boat. There are no signs of corrosion or wear on the bracket or actuator, even after being exposed to saltwater spray and harsh sunlight. I typically rinse the lift with fresh water after each trip, and I’ve greased the actuator a couple of times to keep it running smoothly.
The Panther lift has definitely outperformed my expectations. My previous experience with manual kicker motor brackets involved a lot of struggling and back pain. Now, raising and lowering my kicker motor is as easy as pushing a button.
Breaking Down the Features of Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift
Specifications
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift is designed for auxiliary outboards up to 35hp or 150 pounds. Its 12-volt power-driven actuator includes a 12′ cable with a push-button up/down switch. This lift boasts a convertible setback, adjustable to 13 inches.
The 13-inch setback is crucial for clearing inboards, I/Os, jet drives, and outboards when transom mounting is tricky. An optional spacer (55-9035, sold separately) provides an additional three inches of setback for even greater clearance. This allows for customization to fit different boat configurations.
Performance & Functionality
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift excels at its core function: easily raising and lowering an auxiliary motor. It’s a smooth and reliable operation, saving considerable physical effort. The actuator is strong and responsive, holding the motor securely in any position.
The main strength is its ease of use and the back-saving convenience it provides. The only potential weakness is the installation process, which might require some minor modifications depending on the boat. Overall, it exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift features a rugged, heavy-duty bracket finished with a durable black powder coat. The actuator is compact and well-protected, and the push-button switch is easy to operate even with wet hands. The unit feels solid and well-built, inspiring confidence in its long-term reliability.
The design is straightforward and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is a slight learning curve to finding the best mounting position for your specific boat, but once installed, it’s very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift is built to last, using high-quality materials and a robust design. With regular rinsing and occasional greasing, it should provide years of trouble-free service. The powder coat finish resists corrosion, and the actuator is sealed to protect against water damage.
The maintenance requirements are minimal, making it a hassle-free addition to any boat. I expect this lift to withstand the rigors of frequent use and harsh marine environments for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift comes with the necessary mounting hardware and a 12′ cable with a push-button switch. The most notable customization option is the optional spacer (55-9035) that provides an additional three inches of setback. This is crucial for boats with limited transom space or specific clearance requirements.
While the lift itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, its compatibility with standard auxiliary motors means you can choose from a wide range of outboards to suit your needs. There are no specific accessories designed by Panther outside of the optional spacer to augment the functionality of the lift.
Pros and Cons of Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift
Pros
- Effortless electric operation saves strain and back pain.
- Heavy-duty construction ensures long-term durability.
- Convertible setback provides versatility for different boat configurations.
- Simple and intuitive push-button control.
- Reduces the physical strain of raising and lowering a kicker motor in rough conditions.
Cons
- Installation might require some minor modifications to the transom.
- The price point is higher than manual lift options.
Who Should Buy Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift?
Perfect for anglers who frequently use kicker motors for trolling. It’s also a must-have for boaters with back problems or limited mobility who struggle with manual lift systems. Any boat owner with inboards, I/Os, or jet drives will find the adjustable setback invaluable.
Those on a tight budget or who only occasionally use their kicker motor might want to consider a cheaper, manual option. If you are confident in your physical ability to lift and lower the motor without assistance, you might not need this product.
Must-have accessory: The optional 55-9035 spacer if you need the extra 3 inches of setback. Thread locker for the mounting bolts is also recommended to prevent loosening.
Conclusion on Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift
The Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift is a well-built, reliable, and convenient solution for anyone who regularly uses an auxiliary motor. While it comes with a higher price tag than manual options, the ease of use and back-saving benefits are well worth the investment. The adjustable setback adds versatility, and the heavy-duty construction ensures long-term durability.
The price is justified by the quality of the product and the convenience it provides. I have significantly reduced the physical strain of using my kicker motor.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Panther 55-0035 Kicker Lift to any boater looking for a reliable and convenient way to raise and lower their auxiliary motor. Upgrade your boating experience and say goodbye to back pain – invest in a Panther Kicker Lift today!