Follow this checklist on day one. Most 'missing part' reports turn out to be items still in packaging or steps not yet completed. Work through each section in order before your first paddle.

Step 1 — Unpack & Inventory

Open all hatches, the cockpit, and the tankwell. Parts are often bagged inside.

✓ Still short a part after this checklist?
Use the parts request form with your HIN and a photo: [Parts request form — coming soon]

Step 2 — Install the Seat

1. Loosen the thumbscrews on both seat track sides until there's a visible gap.
2. Slide the seat into the track and position it at your preferred fore/aft setting.
3. Tighten the thumbscrews. Adjust seat back angle and height to comfort.

Step 3 — Install the Rudder & Steering

1. Attach the rudder bracket to the stern using 2× M6×16mm screws (M6 Allen wrench, not included).
2. Thread the steering cable through the hull channels to the cockpit.
3. Connect the black knob rope (deploy / bow direction) and red knob rope (retract / stern direction).
4. Adjust cable tension — cables must move freely. Do not overtighten.

⚠ Do not overtighten steering cables
Cables must slide freely through the guides. Over-tightening is the most common cause of stiff or jammed steering. Correct tension: slight resistance when pulling the knob, but the cable travels its full range without binding.

Step 4 — Install the Pedal Drive (PD 10′6 only)

⚠ CRITICAL — LEFT CRANK SCREW IS REVERSE THREADED
LEFT screw tightens COUNTERCLOCKWISE. RIGHT screw tightens clockwise (normal). Forcing the LEFT screw clockwise strips the thread — the most common support issue we see for this kayak.

1. Fit the RIGHT crank arm (marked R) onto the right spindle. Tighten the RIGHT screw clockwise with the M8 Allen wrench.
2. Fit the LEFT crank arm (marked L) onto the left spindle. Tighten the LEFT screw COUNTERCLOCKWISE with the M8 Allen wrench.
3. Install the splash guard around the drive well using the M4 Allen wrench.
4. Lower the drive into the well, propeller-end down. Lift the lock pin, rotate the locking block 90°, release — it should click and hold.
5. Push the foam plug into the drive well when the drive is not in use (transport, storage).

Step 5 — Pre-Launch Check

• All 12 scupper plugs are seated.
• Seat is secure and adjust straps are tightened.
• Rudder deploys and retracts smoothly; steering knobs move without binding.
• Pedal drive (if installed) locks in — give it an upward tug to confirm.
• Grab handles are tight.
• Water depth at launch site is at least 22″ / 55 cm (required for pedal drive).

Step 6 — Register Your Warranty

Register within 30 days of purchase to activate your 5-year hull / 1-year parts warranty.

Register at: www.paddlekd.com/boat-registration

ℹ Warranty coverage
5 years: hull (structural defects). 1 year: all parts except fins and rudder blades. Warranty is void without registration and is non-transferable.