The story:

A pretty neat install which I brainstormed up within an hour. A customer came into Delaware Paddlesports a little over a month ago sharing the same passion as I. He is a photographer. Although I don’t venture much into wildlife photography too often this is Geoff’s hobby.

Geoff was looking to get into a kayak for more options to frame wildlife in their habitat. He was interested in a sit on top kayak that he could lay prone on and set up his camera to catch that shot of a lifetime. I recommended the new 2020 Jackson Kayak Kilroy HD or the new 2020 Jackson Kayak Yupik. He seemed set on the Yupik. However due to cost decided to go with a leftover 2019 Jackson Kayak Bite in Granite.

With the extra money he decided to go with the Torqeedo option that I had informed him on. The Bite is the perfect Candidate for the Torqeedo Ultralight 403C.

The Torqeedo Ultralight 403C Uses the orignal ball and bar mounting system but is teamed up with the long life 915 wH battery!

Install:

Since there is no inside hull access on the Bite I used the molly bolts that are included in the Ultralight 403C install kit. These stainless steel anchors once inserted and tightened down expand the metal prongs that flower out to hold the anchor in place.

The Sea-Lect Designs Kayak Adjustable Footbrace w/ Rudder Control (Black) replace the stock Jackson ones using the molded in brass hull inserts for a clean no drill install.

Using the Jackson Kayak rudder tubing kit and 1/16″ stainless cable I ran the lines within the tubing on top of the deck rails utilizing pad eyes as guides which I riveted in. Then terminated the Cables at the motor steering triangle using Stainless Steel Thimble and swages which i heat shrink wrapped. Then added Nite Ize Size-2 S-Biner Dual Carabiner, Stainless-Steel, Black.

For the controller mount I used a YakAttack Mightymount XL Track, 6″ and the Yakattack Throttle Mount for Torqeedo W/LockNLoad Mounting System, 4” ext.

The Up/down lines I also ran through the pad eyes on right side to the Sea-Lect Designs Clamcleat Jr for locking the motor in the up position Controlling Up/Down and Locking in the down position.

This was a really cool and fun install!!

Installing hardware may cause damage and/or void manufacturer warranties.  ThePlasticHull.net its authors or any other source of information on this website is in no way responsible for your actions nor any type issues or damage that may occur.  The information provided on this website is a free reference guide only. The authors of all information, sponsors and the owners of the website that host this information are not liable for any problems or issues that arise from the use of this information. Users of this information hereby acknowledge that all use of this information is done by their own free will, at their own sole risk, understanding that destruction of property, injury, or death could occur.

Video – Torqeedo Ultralight 403 Modifications Summarized

Everything mentioned within this video is outlined on The Plastic Hull within the Torqeedo Ultralight 403 Archives.

Check below for links to products used within these mods.

Torqeedo 403 Aluminum Steering Bracket

KeelEazy is a PVC product manufactured to protect Thermoformed kayak keels. The Keel is a part of the kayak that protrudes along the center of the underside of the hull. Thermoform ABS plastic being both strong and thin is actually more abrasive than typical Poly rotomolded kayaks. To extend the life of the kayak and to protect your investment I recommend installing Keel Easy. KeelEazy will protect your kayak against abrasive scuffs, wear and scratches to the keel.

Installing KeelEazy is actually really easy. You can choose to protect the entire keel or just the bow and stern areas which receive the most abuse. KeelEazy comes in seven different colors!

1. Black
2. White
3. Orange
4. Blue
5. Green
6. Red
7. Yellow

It also comes in different widths however 2″ is the best for most kayak applications.

Install Video:

KeelEazy Installation:

I opted to install the Keel Guard on the entire length of the keel. I ordered 14 feet so there would be a little extra just in case. Overall length of the Kilroy LT is 12′-11″.

Step 1: Clean the entire keel area with a clean rag and rubbing alcohol. Let dry. Level off any existing scratches with a razor blade.

Step 2: Round off the beginning edge. (This is not in the video) By folding the edge in half length wise and cutting an arc out it will round off the leading edge for a cleaner look after installation. This is optional.

Step 3: Using a razor blade peel back the protective backing.

Step 4: Place the sticky side down starting 6″ min at the bow. Roll it out and remove the backer keeping the keel guard sticky side down. Keep centered on the keel.

Step 5: Warning: Do not apply too much heat. If you burn the keel guard you will need to replace it with a brand new piece.

Step 6: Using a heat gun slowly heat and mold the keel guard to the bow and the curve in the keel. Using a roller or round tool work out the bends and kinks.

Step 7: Continue using the heat gun in small areas heating up the keel guard and pushing it down. You may want to use a glove because it can get pretty hot.

Step 8: Round off the stern edge.

Step 9: Repeat heat and apply.

Complete!

KeelEazy is available as a Kit or per by the foot from The Kayak Fishing Store.

Disclaimer:

Installing aftermarket products may cause damage and/or void manufacturer warranties.  ThePlasticHull.net its authors or any other source of information on this website is in no way responsible for your actions nor any type issues or damage that may occur.  The information provided on this website is a free reference guide only. The authors of all information, sponsors and the owners of the website that host this information are not liable for any problems or issues that arise from the use of this information. Users of this information hereby acknowledge that all use of this information is done by their own free will, at their own sole risk, understanding that destruction of property, injury, or death could occur.