Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket Review

Let’s Talk About Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket

The Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket from Panther promises to deliver quick and easy kicker motor deployment with the simple flip of a switch. Designed for boats with tail transoms where a clamp-on kicker motor will be mounted, this bracket boasts 15.5″ of vertical lift and rugged aluminum construction. It aims to provide a smooth, reliable, and convenient solution for anglers and boaters who need a secondary motor.

For years, I struggled with manually lifting and lowering my kicker motor; a cumbersome task, especially in rough water. I needed a system that could handle the weight and provide instant deployment. The hydraulic lift and robust build of the Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket seemed like the perfect solution to my aching back and wasted time.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of robust quality. The fabricated aluminum plates felt incredibly solid, and the black powder-coat finish looked like it could withstand years of harsh marine environments. The weight was substantial, reassuring me of its sturdiness without being overly heavy or cumbersome to install.

I considered the Garelick Eez-In Adjustable Auxiliary Motor Bracket and the Strong Arm Auxiliary Motor Bracket before settling on the Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket. The Garelick offered manual adjustment, which I wanted to avoid. The Strong Arm, while heavy-duty, lacked the hydraulic convenience that I craved.

My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. The price tag is significant, but the promise of effortless kicker motor operation and long-lasting durability piqued my interest. Only real-world testing would reveal if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket on my 21-foot center console during a week-long fishing trip in the Florida Keys. The bracket was subjected to saltwater, constant sun, and the vibrations of running the main engine. It was a demanding environment, but the bracket seemed unphased.

The performance in choppy conditions was particularly impressive. The hydraulic lift allowed for quick adjustments to the kicker motor’s height, preventing the propeller from cavitating or dragging in the water. Using the rocker switch was incredibly intuitive; there was no learning curve.

The only initial issue was ensuring proper wiring and fuse protection for the 12V system; something not explicitly detailed in the included instructions. Once sorted, operation was flawless.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use (approximately twice a week), the Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of corrosion or significant wear and tear on the aluminum plates or stainless steel hardware. The black powder-coat finish still looks new.

A quick rinse with freshwater after each use is all that is required for maintenance. I also occasionally lubricate the moving parts with a marine-grade grease to ensure smooth operation. This minimal care routine has proven to be sufficient.

Previously, I used a manual lift bracket that required considerable physical effort and offered limited adjustability. The Panther bracket is a significant upgrade, offering unmatched convenience and precision. It has transformed my boating experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket

Specifications

• The Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket provides 15.5″ of vertical lift, allowing for versatile kicker motor positioning in various water conditions. This is crucial for avoiding prop cavitation and optimizing performance.
• The bracket is constructed from 1/4″ thick fabricated aluminum plates, ensuring exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion in marine environments. This robust build gives me confidence in its longevity, even with regular saltwater exposure.
• It features a 12-volt electro/hydraulic system, offering effortless and reliable operation with the simple flip of a switch. This automated system eliminates the need for manual lifting, which is invaluable after a long day on the water.
• The bracket includes stainless steel hardware for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. The use of stainless steel is essential for long-term reliability in saltwater conditions.
• It comes with 25′ of wiring, relays, and a dash-mounted rocker switch, providing a complete installation package. Having all the necessary components included saves time and ensures compatibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket performs its job exceptionally well, providing smooth and reliable kicker motor deployment and adjustment. The hydraulic system is responsive and powerful, handling the weight of my 9.9 HP kicker motor with ease.

The bracket’s main strength lies in its convenience and ease of use. The hydraulic lift system allows for quick and precise adjustments, making it simple to optimize the kicker motor’s performance in changing conditions. The wiring instructions could be clearer, but once properly installed, it’s a set-and-forget system.

It significantly exceeded my expectations. The automated lift system has eliminated the physical strain of manually adjusting my kicker motor, and the robust construction provides peace of mind.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding; the Manufacturer (Panther) has clearly prioritized durability and reliability. The materials used are top-notch, and the construction is solid and well-engineered. The bracket feels substantial without being overly heavy.

The design is user-friendly, and the dash-mounted rocker switch is intuitive to operate. While some may prefer a more compact design, the robust build inspires confidence.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, I expect the Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket to last for many years with proper care. The aluminum and stainless steel construction is highly resistant to corrosion, and the black powder-coat finish provides added protection.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with freshwater after each use and occasional lubrication of the moving parts. The simple design makes it easy to inspect and maintain.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket comes with all the necessary components for installation, including wiring, relays, and a dash-mounted rocker switch. There are no specific customization options offered by Panther, but the bracket is compatible with standard kicker motors and mounting hardware.

Some users may choose to add a fuse block for added electrical protection or upgrade the wiring gauge for heavy-duty applications. The bracket’s universal design allows for a wide range of aftermarket customizations.

Pros and Cons of Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket

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Who Should Buy Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket?

The Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket is perfect for pro anglers, serious boaters, and anyone who frequently uses a kicker motor and values convenience and ease of use. It is also ideal for individuals with back problems or limited mobility who struggle with manual lift brackets.

Those on a tight budget or who only occasionally use a kicker motor may find the high price point difficult to justify. Boaters who prefer a purely manual system may also want to skip this product.

A must-have accessory is a dedicated fuse block for the 12V system to ensure proper electrical protection. Upgrading the wiring gauge may also be beneficial for heavy-duty applications.

Conclusion on Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket

The Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket is a premium product that delivers on its promise of effortless kicker motor operation and exceptional durability. While the price is significant, the convenience, reliability, and long-lasting construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious boaters and anglers.

The value proposition is strong, particularly for those who frequently use a kicker motor and value their time and physical well-being. The robust construction and smooth hydraulic operation provide peace of mind and enhance the overall boating experience.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Panther 55-0045A Hydraulic Outboard Motor Bracket to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line kicker motor lift system. If you’re tired of struggling with manual brackets and want a convenient, reliable, and durable solution, this is the product for you. Upgrade your boating experience today!