Rudder on a Malibu Pro-Explorer

Original Author: 
DaveCap

The Malibu Pro-Explorer does not have a factory rudder option but with some ingenuity it can be installed.

Mounting the Rudder: On top, I used the existing screws used for the handle. On the bottom I drilled one hole and used a wellnut.

Rudder retractor/ cables entering the hull: This whole kit is a Wilderness systems setup. Taking Jon's at KFS advice, I drilled 2 new holes in tighter to the center to shorten the needed cable pull distance

Running the Cables in the Rear: Drilled on an angle, then I cut the nylon cable sheathing on an angle and melted and pressed the end forming a lip so it wouldn't slip back into the hull.

Rudder Retractor Side View: Again, the retractor parts were in the kit. It did have to be shortened though.

Toe Pilot Setup: These are the ones that Cobra uses. It's plastic, except for the hinges. KFS makes a real nice stainless set also. These feel a little too flexible. Soon I'll make my own. Probably out of Aluminum.

Toe Pilot Setup 2: Here is another view of the Toe Pilot setup. Note the small pieces of bugee on the outside of each pedal to keep them from falling back.

Front Cable Run: Same as the rear. Drilled on an angle, cut the sheathing on an angle, melted it to create a lip and it won't slip back in.

Rudder Seat: This part also came with the kit. Although one could easily be fabricated.

All the materials for the rudder kit and other rudder parts are available in the KFS store.