The essentials in 30 seconds
- Two Garmin references for the same motor: 010-02864-00 supplied with two wireless Power Steer pedals, 010-02864-10 without pedals. The pedals are also available as an accessory, including rails.
- The Force Current accepts a 12 V or 24 V battery. At level 20, Garmin measures 36.8 lbf at 12.8 V and 56.0 lbf at 25.6 V.
- At equal thrust, the 24 V draws half the amperage: 15.8 A for 36.7 lbf, versus 33.9 A for 36.8 lbf at 12 V.
- Range is calculated from the Garmin chart; it is not guaranteed. Example: 75 Ah at 24 V at level 15 gives approximately 4.7 hours theoretical, before wind, current, and reserve for return.
- The kayak must have a flat transom and 360° propeller clearance. Garmin states: not all kayaks are compatible.
- Skysat has not yet installed a Force Current on a kayak. This article is based on Garmin and Rebelcell documentation, not on workshop experience.
Contents
- What the Force Current is, and what it is not
- With or without pedals: two references
- 12 V or 24 V: what Garmin measures
- Range: how to calculate it without promising it
- The battery and its protection
- What your kayak must support
- GPS anchoring and MOB beacon: aids, not guarantees
- Limitations and pitfalls
- Our verdict by use case
- Sources
What the Force Current is, and what it is not
The Garmin Force Current is an electric trolling motor designed for kayaks. It mounts on the transom (the rear of the kayak), not the bow like boat motors. It includes a GPS and compass: it holds a position, heading, or speed, and follows a route. It can be controlled from the supplied remote, from the Power Steer pedals, from a compatible Garmin chartplotter or watch, or from the ActiveCaptain app.
The motor weighs 10.1 kg alone, 12.6 kg with its bracket and cable. Garmin supplies two propellers: a high-performance propeller for open water, and an anti-algae propeller. The remote control, a man-overboard (MOB) beacon, and the lifting lanyard are included. The circuit breaker and battery are not.
What it is not: a Force Pro or a Force Kraken. These two motors are mounted at the bow of a boat, in 24 or 36 V. Garmin designed the Force Current for the stern of a kayak. It is also not an outboard for cruising. Garmin therefore advises keeping a paddle aboard at all times.
With or without pedals: two models
The motor, remote control, MOB beacon, propellers, and bracket are identical. The difference lies in the Power Steer pedals and their rails.
| Contents | Force Current with pedals — 010-02864-00 | Force Current — 010-02864-10 |
|---|---|---|
| Motor, bracket, lifting lanyard, two propellers | yes | yes |
| Remote control and MOB beacon | yes | yes |
| Two wireless Power Steer pedals, with rails and hardware | yes | no; Garmin accessory 010-13307-00 |
| Batteries to be provided (not included) | 2 AA for the remote control, 2 AA per pedal | 2 AA for the remote control |
| 12 or 24 V battery, 40 A circuit breaker | to be provided | to be provided |
| Added weight from pedals and rails | 3.08 kg | — |
Content extracted from the Garmin user manual (v3, July 2026) and installation instructions (v3, November 2025), common to both models. Garmin describes the pedals as « an optional accessory included with certain models » in these documents.
What the pedals provide
The pedals keep your hands free. Each pedal tilts forward or backward; the position of both pedals controls the motor’s speed and angle. By default, they operate in differential steering mode, known as « Zero-Turn ». A « Rudder » setting replicates the feel of a cable-steered tiller. Each pedal features a programmable lever: heading hold, anchoring, waypoint.
What the pedals require
Their rails can be mounted on the kayak in three ways as described by Garmin. T-slot rails on the gunwales, existing threaded inserts, or nuts to be placed in 11 mm holes. The supplied hardware may not fit all kayak rails. Remove the pedals from the rails before transport. They require four AA batteries and legroom, without interfering with any existing pedal system.
No pedals today, maybe tomorrow. The pedal-free version does not close any doors. Garmin sells the Power Steer pedals with their rails as an accessory, and its manual describes their coupling to the motor. If you are unsure about rail placement, start without.
12 or 24 V: what Garmin measures
The Force Current accepts a nominal 12 or 24 V battery; its input accepts 10 to 32 V DC. This is not a factory setting: the same motor accepts either voltage. Garmin publishes a thrust and current table by propeller level, measured according to ISO 13342. Thrust is expressed in lbf (pound-force; 1 lbf ≈ 4.45 N).
| Propeller level | Thrust at 12.8 V | Current at 12.8 V | Thrust at 25.6 V | Current at 25.6 V |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 (maximum) | 36.8 lbf (163.8 N) | 33.9 A | 56.0 lbf (249.1 N) | 32.8 A |
| 15 | 24.8 lbf (110.5 N) | 17.7 A | 36.7 lbf (163.1 N) | 15.8 A |
| 10 | 13.8 lbf (61.2 N) | 7.8 A | 19.9 lbf (88.6 N) | 6.3 A |
| 5 | 6.3 lbf (27.8 N) | 2.8 A | 8.0 lbf (35.6 N) | 1.8 A |
Excerpt from Garmin’s « Thrust and Current Consumption of the Motor » table, user manual v3. Conditions: ISO 13342 test bench, high-performance propeller, relatively calm water. Voltage measured at the motor cable terminals; tolerances ±22 N (5 lbf) and ±5 A.
Two readings from this table matter. First, maximum thrust: 56.0 lbf at 24 V versus 36.8 lbf at 12 V, a 52 % increase. Second, current at equal thrust. For about 37 lbf, the 24 V draws 15.8 A at level 15; the 12 V draws 33.9 A at level 20. Garmin states a maximum power draw of 512 W at 12.8 V and 1,024 W at 25.6 V. Input current remains 40 A continuous in both cases.
What this table does not show: your kayak’s speed or its range. Thrust from a test bench does not account for hull shape, load, wind, or current. The anti-fouling propeller is not included, and Garmin specifies that reverse produces less thrust for more current.
Range: calculate it, don’t promise it
The Garmin table allows a simple calculation: nominal battery capacity (Ah) divided by the current at the chosen level (A). The result is a theoretical duration, at full capacity, at a constant level. We applied this to three Rebelcell batteries from the catalogue.
| Battery (nominal capacity) | Level 10 | Level 15 | Level 20 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rebelcell 24V75 EDGE, 25.6 V, 75 Ah (1.92 kWh) | ≈ 11.9 h at 19.9 lbf | ≈ 4.7 h at 36.7 lbf | ≈ 2.3 h at 56.0 lbf |
| Rebelcell 12V75 EDGE, 12.8 V, 75 Ah (960 Wh) | ≈ 9.6 h at 13.8 lbf | ≈ 4.2 h at 24.8 lbf | ≈ 2.2 h at 36.8 lbf |
| Rebelcell 12V105 EDGE, 12.8 V, 105 Ah (1.34 kWh) | ≈ 13.5 h at 13.8 lbf | ≈ 5.9 h at 24.8 lbf | ≈ 3.1 h at 36.8 lbf |
Skysat calculation: nominal Ah ÷ current from the Garmin table at the closest test voltage (12.8 V or 25.6 V). These are quotients, not measurements on the water.
Treat these durations as upper limits. Nominal capacity is measured under the manufacturer’s conditions. On the water, discharge cutoff and temperature reduce what the battery delivers. Actual current varies with every restart, every turn, every gust. The ±5 A tolerance weighs heavily at low levels: at level 10 in 24 V, the stated current is 6.3 A. Keep a reserve to return, and a paddle.
Comparing rows is still useful. At equal Ah capacity, the 24 V battery stores twice the energy. The motor delivers the same thrust for half the current. For long fishing trips at the same level, 24 V gives more margin. For a lightweight kayak on short outings, 12 V is often enough, with fewer kilograms.
The battery and its protection
Garmin sets three requirements. A 12 V or 24 V DC battery, no other voltage. A circuit capable of supplying 40 A continuously. A 40 A DC circuit breaker or fuse, rated for at least 32 V DC, installed on the positive wire near the battery. The circuit breaker is not supplied, and it must remain open during connection. The battery management system (BMS) does not replace this protection: it protects the cable, not the battery.
The Garmin power cable measures 1.65 m according to specifications, 1.62 m according to the connection page in the same manual. It terminates in eyelet terminals. If the battery is located further away, the extension cable must be sized: total length (round trip), cross-section, terminals, protection against water and chafing. This is not a bulk purchase measured in meters.
| Rebelcell battery (LiFePO4) | Voltage and capacity | Continuous discharge | Weight and dimensions | Dedicated charger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24V75 EDGE | 25.6 V, 75 Ah, 1.92 kWh | 100 A (200 A for less than 5 s) | 13.5 kg; 330 × 175 × 214 mm | 29.2 V / 20 A, 5 to 6 h |
| 12V75 EDGE | 12.8 V, 75 Ah, 960 Wh | 100 A (200 A for less than 5 s) | 6.9 kg; 260 × 168 × 209 mm | 14.6 V / 20 A, 4 to 5 h |
| 12V105 EDGE (2026) | 12.8 V, 105 Ah, 1.34 kWh | 100 A (200 A for less than 5 s) | 9 kg; 260 × 168 × 209 mm | 14.6 V / 20 A, 6 to 7 h |
Rebelcell datasheet values checked on 30 September 2026. All three batteries are IP66 and charge between 0 °C and 45 °C. Their continuous current rating of 100 A covers Garmin’s 40 A requirement; this interpretation is ours, not an official Garmin or Rebelcell certification.
Three precautions. IP66 protects against splashes, not immersion: Rebelcell recommends a sealed tray or elevated mounting to prevent water pooling. The two chargers are not interchangeable: 29.2 V for the 24 V battery and 14.6 V for the 12 V batteries. Finally, these batteries exceed 100 Wh: their transport falls under dangerous goods regulations and is handled by on quotation; fees are confirmed after order.
Using two 12 V batteries in series to obtain 24 V? The Rebelcell datasheets cited do not document this configuration for the EDGE range. A single-block 24 V battery avoids the issue.
What your kayak must allow
Garmin states it plainly: due to the thrust generated by the motor, not all kayaks are compatible. Before selecting a model, verify four points on your kayak, using the Garmin manual.
- A flat stern. The mount requires a flat transom. Otherwise, an adapter must be designed to match the hull shape, with the kayak manufacturer’s approval and an installer’s input.
- A mounting point. Garmin describes three options: pre-tapped holes compatible with the Power-Pole Micro template, or an adapter plate from a third-party manufacturer. Otherwise, four through-bolts if access is available beneath the mounting surface.
- 360° propeller clearance, verified in dry conditions with both propellers, accounting for support flex under load.
- A space for the battery and its protection, within reach of the cable or a custom extension. The battery must remain above any standing water and secured against capsizing.
Add the weight: 12.6 kg for the mounted motor, 3.08 kg for the pedals, then 6.9 to 13.5 kg for the battery depending on the chosen model. Garmin requires removing the motor from the kayak before any transport, and the pedals from their rails. We will detail the installation step-by-step in a dedicated tutorial.
GPS anchoring and MOB beacon: aids, not guarantees
The anchoring mode holds a GPS position. By default, "Bow Lock" keeps the bow (front) in place based on the kayak length you enter, allowing the stern to drift. "Anchor Lock" holds the stern, where the motor is located. The heading hold compensates for drift, and the regulator maintains a ground speed. All these functions require a compass calibrated in water with the motor, and a GPS signal.
Garmin warns: these functions do not relieve you of lookout duties, and they may cause sudden stops, accelerations, and sharp turns. An anchoring mode is not an anchor.
The MOB beacon, supplied and factory-coupled, stops the propeller when submerged. Four conditions: powered on, coupled, worn on the body, underwater. If any condition is missing, the propeller continues to turn. A neutralisation mode exists to regain control if the connection is lost while you are still aboard.
Limitations and pitfalls
- Skysat has not yet installed a Force Current on a kayak. Compatibilities, figures, and procedures come from Garmin and Rebelcell manuals, cited at the end of the article.
- Thrust values are bench figures, with the high-performance propeller and tolerances of ±5 lbf and ±5 A. They do not translate to speed.
- The autonomy figures in the table are quotients. They ignore actual usable capacity, temperature, wind, current, and return reserve.
- Two cable lengths in the same manual: 1.62 m and 1.65 m. Measure the supplied cable before planning an extension.
- The circuit breaker is not supplied. Garmin allows up to 60 A in high heat or shared circuits, provided the boat’s wiring supports it. Otherwise, stay at 40 A.
- The high-performance propeller is for open water only. In shallow waters, Garmin prescribes the anti-algae propeller.
- A chartplotter cannot be connected to a 24 V battery. An ECHOMAP UHD2 requires 9 to 18 V; its Wi‑Fi link with the motor does not power it.
- Some older ECHOMAP Ultra and UHD models, no longer receiving updates, do not support all motor functions. The list of compatible devices is at garmin.com/force_current/compatible.
Our verdict by use case
- You fish with hands occupied (casting or trolling), and your kayak has rails or inserts: the pedal version. First check rail placement, seat adjustment, and leg position.
- You want to validate installation before investing, or you already pilot from a Garmin chartplotter: the non-pedal version. Pedals can be added later as an accessory.
- Short trips, lightweight kayak, every kilo counts: 12 V with a 12V75 EDGE or 12V105 EDGE. Keep below level 15 if you want to preserve autonomy.
- Long days, current or wind, or need maximum thrust: 24 V with a 24V75 EDGE. Expect 13.5 kg to secure in the kayak.
- Your stern is not flat, or you cannot access beneath the mounting surface: do not purchase yet. First have the adaptation studied with the kayak manufacturer; ask us if unsure.
Sources
- Garmin, Force Current — User Manual (v3, July 2026): thrust and current tables, MOB beacon, anchoring modes, foot pedals, safety.
- Garmin, Force Current — Installation Instructions (v3, November 2025): mounting surface, mounting options, propeller clearance, pedal rails, wiring.
- Garmin, online manual pages: thrust/current table, specifications, MOB beacon.
- Garmin accessory Power Steer Foot Pedals with Mounting Rails (010-13307-00); ECHOMAP UHD2 specifications (9 to 18 V).
- Rebelcell, datasheets for 24V75 EDGE, 12V75 EDGE and 12V105 EDGE, accessed on 30 September 2026.
Disclosure: Skysat distributes Garmin and Rebelcell and sells the products mentioned. This article is not sponsored and was not reviewed by the brands. Skysat has not yet installed a Force Current on a kayak. Compatibility and figures cited come from the manufacturers’ manuals, accessed on 30 September 2026.
