Re: Steering kicker motor
I've been using an "EZ Steer" linkage between my main and kicker outboards for years and it works great. I've been able to adapt it between two different main and two different kickers over the years w/o any significant effort or expense. I wouldn't troll without one. Easy to install, bullet proof, just a nicely designed device. There are other types too, but this one works and is adapatable to any main/kicker combo, including outdrives, etc.
There's many ways to hook both engines up to your tank(s). The best way, IMHO, is to use a water separating filter bracket that has two out flow fittings. I have built in tanks which flow through a T valve into a cannister type water separating filter. The bracket that holds that filter cannister has two outflow fittings, each w/ a valve. I run one hose to the main engine and the other one goes to the kicker. Both are permanently connected to the filter bracket, but the kicker hose is kept up out of the way with the valve closed when the kicker isn't on board. When I'm trolling, I generally keep both valves open so that I can fire up the main engine whenever I need the power; sometimes in the current/wind/waves that I troll in, I need some power to get back on course or maneuver temporarily. There is no problem running both engines off that filter as long as the flow rate is sufficient (mine - a Racor w/ drain bowl - I believe has 90 gph capacity)
If you want to go simpler, you could probably get a T valve or just Y the fuel line to both engines. I don't believe flow between the engines would be a problem as long as both are connected with normal outboard one-way connectors. But you might want to check with a professional rigger on that.
I think every boat should have a water sep filter, so I think that is the way to go.
