INSTALLATION
- GUIDES -
Bench Seat Installation Instructions:
Bucket Seat Installation Instructions:
- Additional Specialty Installation -
Tight Mount Bucket Seat Installation Instructions:
(including MN II rear seat)
Solo Slider Bucket Seat Information:
Solo slider buckets built 2017 and earlier require a special frame for mounting. Please contact us if you have questions.
General use
- instructions -
How to best use your BackSaver
The real key to back support is whether someone tends to sit up straight and lean back with their upper body. Any significant slouching or hunching over will eventually cause the lower back to fatigue. BackSavers are designed to adjust in height and support angle to fit the needs of individual users. When the BackSaver is adjusted to the right height users will automatically sit up straighter, push back with their upper body, and relieve strain on the lower back. Many paddlers also find that they like different heights or angles of support depending on the type of activity (lazy paddle, hard aggressive paddle, fishing, etc.). Go to our "Shop" page to see all BackSaver models.
The strap and tension buckle are used to control the angle of support. If properly installed the tension lock buckle will be just above the rim of the seat. To tighten or pull the BackSaver forward, pull on the loose end of the strap by pulling it straight back along the same angle as the section of the strap coming down from behind the BackSaver. Push down and out on the top of the tension buckle to release the strap and let the BackSaver ease back. These adjustments work easiest when there is very light pressure on the BackSaver. The mounted BackSaver is designed to have a little give when you lean back on it for added comfort. The strap is designed to be long enough that you can let the BackSaver rotate all the way back and down out of the way for very aggressive paddling or so that it is out of the way if you turn around in the front seat.
Snap buttons on opposite sides of each BackSaver let it telescope to different heights. Try different heights to determine what works best for you. Push both buttons in at the same time to raise or lower the height. If you only move one side at a time it may jam. Both sides should always be set at the same height. Most users like the top wooden cross rail one to two inches below their shoulder blades. This gives good support while still giving you full motion for paddling. It is easiest to adjust the height before you go out on the water. Try different heights while wearing a t-shirt or other light clothing until you know which one works best for you.
Strap the BackSaver down flat against the seat before you portage, transport, or flip your canoe upside down. When you portage or transport the canoe, wrap the loose strap around the top of the BackSaver and secure the end with a half hitch. Some people will wedge either clothing or their life jackets between the BackSaver and the seat to simplify carrying gear on a portage.
Warning - Improper Use
BackSavers are very strong and functional for their intended use.They were not designed to be handles for lifting a canoe. It is also possible to break a BackSaver by kneeling/standing on it or throwing a heavy pack on it when it is strapped down against the seat. Flipping the canoe upside down while the BackSaver is still in its vertical or back support position can also damage it. The BackSaver was designed to support your back not the canoe.