Kayak Thruster

thingiverse

This is an electric thruster designed specifically for Walmart kayaks, as well as several other models. The system allows users to enjoy kayaking without the hassle of paddling. The design is versatile and can accommodate any pitch or size propeller desired. To provide added protection to the propeller, the thruster is essentially encapsulated, shielding it from rocks and debris while also directing water flow for a more focused thrust. The design requires two separate thrusters, each with its own circuit, which enables 360 degrees of motion control. This setup mimics the functionality of a skid steer or Bobcat, providing seamless navigation. The electric thruster is specifically designed to work with a 12v 755 DC motor. However, users will need to install their own venting system for the motor and ensure it remains waterproof. To achieve this level of water resistance, I employed a layer of JB Weld plastic to seal all holes and gaps in the plastic components that could potentially allow water to pass through. The propeller used in this design is available on Thingiverse; users can simply search for "props" and use their slicer to scale the prop up to the desired size for the thruster.