Overview

The Garmin 010-12826-00 is a mechanical linear steering actuator for a kicker motor, driven by the autopilot system to move the motor for course keeping and slow-speed control. It mounts through the kicker’s tilt tube and sits in the same splashy, high-vibration zone as the motor, with an IPX7 water rating and an operating temperature range of -20 to 70 C.

Fit is mainly about space and stroke. The actuator measures 17.5 inches (44.5 cm) closed and extends to 25.3 inches (64.4 cm), with the motor side extending 4 inches (10.3 cm) from the end of the tilt tube and a motor diameter of 2.5 inches (6.2 cm). It is compatible with the Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot.

Key features

• Mechanical linear actuator that mounts through the kicker motor tilt tube and steers under autopilot control
• Compatible with Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot
• Water rating: IPX7
• Operating temperature range: -20 to 70 C
• Overall length: 17.5 inches (44.5 cm) closed, 25.3 inches (64.4 cm) extended
• Motor side extends 4 inches (10.3 cm) from the end of the tilt tube; motor diameter 2.5 inches (6.2 cm)

Compatibility and fit

This actuator is built for kicker-autopilot steering and is matched to the Reactor 40 Kicker Autopilot system. It installs through the kicker’s tilt tube, so the tilt tube needs a clear through-bore and enough room at the motor end for the actuator body and motor diameter.

Before ordering, confirm you have clearance for the full travel length (up to 25.3 inches extended) without the actuator contacting rigging, transom hardware, tie bars, or the motor well across the full steering range and any tilt positions you use.

Installation and setup

Mounting is done through the tilt tube, then the actuator is connected into the kicker autopilot drive path so the autopilot can command left and right movement. On boats that see frequent saltwater spray, it helps to keep the tilt tube clean, use appropriate marine grease on the tube surfaces, and secure the actuator so it does not carry cable strain during steering and tilt.

After installation, check for smooth movement lock-to-lock with the engine off, then confirm the autopilot steering response at the dock before heading out. Any binding usually points to alignment, interference, or a tilt tube that needs attention.

Use on board

This actuator is a good match for anglers and cruisers who rely on a kicker for trolling or low-speed runs and want the autopilot to handle steering corrections while the boat is moving slowly. It is also useful on boats that spend long days tracking a line or holding a course in chop, where small steering inputs add up over time.