Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in Review

Let’s Dive into Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in

Any boater worth their salt knows the frustration of trying to manage multiple engines independently. The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in promises to solve that headache, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your kicker motor with your existing SeaStar hydraulic steering system. This eliminates the need for a separate steering setup for your auxiliary engine, freeing up valuable space and simplifying boat operation.

For years, I’ve dealt with the cumbersome setup of independent steering for my kicker motor. The clutter and added complexity were a constant source of annoyance, particularly during precise maneuvers. I was searching for a solution that offered both convenience and enhanced control, and the Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in seemed to be the answer.

The tie bar arrived in a straightforward package, and upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the apparent build quality. The flexible cable felt robust, and the universal ABYC steering connection looked like it would genuinely be a simple DIY installation.

Before settling on the Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in, I considered a couple of alternatives. There were cheaper rigid tie bars, but the lack of flexibility worried me due to potential engine trim conflicts. I also looked at a fully electronic steering system, but the price tag was prohibitive for the level of improvement I was seeking.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The claims of easy installation and seamless integration sounded promising, but the real test would be how it performed on the water.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in on my 21-foot aluminum fishing boat. The installation, thankfully, was as straightforward as advertised, taking about an hour with basic tools. I tested it in a variety of conditions in Puget Sound, from calm waters to moderate chop.

The difference in handling was immediately noticeable. Steering my kicker motor through my main SeaStar hydraulic system felt incredibly natural and responsive. Fine adjustments for trolling were now effortless, and navigating tight spots in the marina became significantly easier.

There were no significant issues after the initial installation and use. I was initially concerned about the amount of cable flex, but it proved to be more than adequate and didn’t introduce any noticeable lag in steering response.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, the Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of corrosion or wear on the cable or connection points, despite being exposed to saltwater and varying weather conditions.

I routinely inspect the cable and connections for any signs of loosening or damage. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving a quick rinse with fresh water after each outing. So far, the product has exceeded my expectations.

Comparing this to my previous setup is night and day. The ease of use, improved control, and simplified boat operation have made a tangible difference in my overall boating experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in

Specifications

• The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in is designed to connect an auxiliary (kicker) motor to an existing SeaStar hydraulic steering system. This allows the operator to steer both engines using the main helm.
• It features a flexible Xtreme 40 series cable, 22 inches in length, offering adjustable positioning of the kicker motor. This flexibility is crucial for accommodating different boat and engine configurations.
• It incorporates a universal ABYC steering connection (as per ABYC P17 and P21 standards) for simplified installation on the kicker motor. This standardization ensures compatibility with a wide range of kicker motors.
• The design allows for independent trim and tilt of both the main and auxiliary engines. This is a vital feature, enabling optimal performance and efficiency regardless of engine combination or speed.
• The tie bar is engineered to allow the full steering stroke of both engines without binding or interference. This ensures full maneuverability and safety in all conditions.

These specifications are essential because they directly contribute to the product’s effectiveness. The cable’s flexibility allows for a wide range of installation options. The universal connection streamlines the installation process. Finally, the independent trim/tilt and full steering stroke capabilities guarantee optimal boat handling.

Performance & Functionality

The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in performs its job exceptionally well. It provides seamless integration of the kicker motor with the main steering system, enhancing boat control and maneuverability.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The installation is straightforward, the operation is intuitive, and the improvement in boat handling is immediately noticeable. A potential area for improvement might be to offer various cable length options to accommodate larger boats with greater engine separation.

The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in meets and even exceeds my expectations. It has transformed the way I operate my boat.

Design & Ergonomics

The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in is well-designed, using high-quality materials that appear to be corrosion-resistant. The flexible cable feels robust and durable, capable of withstanding the harsh marine environment.

The installation is user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and mechanical knowledge. There’s no significant learning curve, and the product integrates seamlessly with existing SeaStar hydraulic steering systems.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in should last for many years with proper care. The materials used are resistant to corrosion and wear, and the design is simple and robust.

Maintenance is easy, primarily involving rinsing with fresh water after each use and periodically inspecting the cable and connections. The product is designed for longevity and ease of upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in is primarily a standalone product designed to integrate with existing systems. It does not come with many accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware.

There aren’t significant customization options available for the tie bar itself. However, its compatibility with standard SeaStar hydraulic steering systems means it can be used with a wide range of helms, cylinders, and hoses.

Pros and Cons of Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in

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Who Should Buy Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in?

The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in is perfect for boaters who use a kicker motor for trolling or maneuvering in tight spaces and want to simplify their steering setup. This is especially beneficial for serious anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone who values ease of use and enhanced boat control.

This product might not be ideal for boaters on a tight budget who are willing to sacrifice convenience for a lower price point. Also, if the boat configuration requires significant separation between the main and kicker motors, the 22-inch cable length might be insufficient.

For optimal performance, ensure that the existing SeaStar hydraulic steering system is in good working order. Proper installation and regular maintenance are crucial for maximizing the lifespan of the tie bar.

Conclusion on Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in

The Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in is a well-designed and highly effective solution for integrating kicker motor steering into an existing SeaStar hydraulic system. While the price point may be a deterrent for some, the enhanced control, ease of use, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious boaters.

The price is justified by the tangible improvements in boat handling and the long-term value provided by the product’s durability. The simplified steering and enhanced control make boating more enjoyable and efficient.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in to anyone looking to upgrade their boat’s steering system and simplify their boating experience. If you’re tired of wrestling with independent steering for your kicker motor, this is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Invest in the Sierra International Seastar Kicker Cable Tie Bar 22in and experience the difference firsthand.