Upgrading a 2014 Big Rig to 2015 status is pretty simple! A few modifications have been introduced on the new 2015 Big Rig. These upgrades can be purchased from your local Jackson Kayak dealer or from the Jackson Kayak online store.
The new additions include:
- All new Seadek style adhesive Deck Pad.
- Upgraded leaning post Grip Shrink pads.
- The brand new Elite 2.0 seat with Thermarest back support.
- The brand new CAM style seat latching system which can be applied to the 2014 model.
- Upgraded all deck rigging bungee to yellow.
Installing the deck pad:
Prior to installing the deck pad clean the deck thoroughly. Let dry completely then wipe down with rubbing alcohol and again let dry completely. The install should be done when it is warm out above 50 degrees but under 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Using a sharpie marker align the deck pad and mark the corners where it aligns with all scupper holes. Peel back the paper that covered the adhesive align with your markings and press down firmly. The adhesive is very sticky so you really only have 1 shot.
Upgrading the leaning post pads:
You’ll need a heat gun for this operation and a razor blade for cutting the Grip Shrink. The standard grip size on the 2015 Big Rig are (2x) 4″ for the sides and (1) 9″ for the top center. Cut accordingly. Remove the leaning post from the kayak. Remove one support brace. Slide on one 4″ piece first. position it where you would like it to be on the side with the support brace that you did not remove. Heat and shrink it in place. Repeat the same step with the 8″ piece centering it on the top portion of the bar. Once complete replace the support brace and using Loktite on the bolt that it swivels on. Reattach it to the kayak and your 2015 leaning post is complete!
Updating to the new Elite 2.0 Seat:
I am hoping replacing the seat eliminates the creaking I used to experience with the original seat. The new Elite 2.0 seat fits the 2014 Big Rig but requires the Cam seat latch system.
Cam Conversion Kit:
The cam conversion it is a easy install. It includes the star hex bit for removing the screws that secure the security bar. Simply remove one screw and loosen the other enough to slide on the loop of the cam strap. Make sure the cam lever is facing the bow. Tighten and the install is complete!
How is the 2.0 seat compared to the original? Is it worth the upgrade? One of my minor complaints about the original seat is that it tapers upward at the front, and when I want to put my legs out over the sides of the kayak, the metal frame at the front sides of the seat dig into my thighs. Is the new seat any better in this regard? Thanks for all the work you put into this site! I enjoy your posts very much. Thanks.
Hey Kevin,
I have not sat in the new elite seat for any length of time to compare them yet. The only real differences I see is the back is curved more and contoured a little nicer and the seat mesh material is a little more coushouny and seems like it will dry faster if it gets wet. There is pockets under the seat that will hole 2 tackle boxes on each side which you can access when in the high position. The main feature that i like is the new cam lock strap that holds the seat in place instead of the nylon buckle. . The thermarest back support is nice to have although is tough to adjust on the water.
I will be out fishing tomorrow so I can give you a full review on the differences when i get back!
Hey Kevin,
Here is my update using the new seat on my Big Rig.
The seat is very comfortable. The only difference is the shape of the back which is more comfortable. The other thing is it doesn’t creak when rocking on it due to waves or boat wakes.
Id say the upgrade is totally a user preference. Id say stay with the old seat as there isn’t a huge difference. Paddle a new boat with the new seat and see for yourself.