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10 Best Outboard Motor Jack Plates 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Bob's Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series Kick-Back Jac

The Bob's Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series Kick-Back Jac is a robust hydraulic jack plate designed for outboard motors. It provides a substantial total lift of 7.5 inches, thanks to its 6-inch hydraulic stroke and 1.5-inch built-in structure lift. This feature is especially beneficial when navigating shallow waters or avoiding submerged objects, as it helps prevent damage to the lower unit of your motor.

The inclusion of Delrin rollers and bearings ensures smooth operation, and the motor tether attachment point adds an extra layer of safety. Locking pins are a practical addition to prevent the plate from kicking out in reverse or during trailering, while greaseable pivot points with automotive zerk fittings enhance durability by allowing for easy maintenance. This jack plate is rated for motors up to 115 horsepower, making it suitable for a wide range of boats. It follows the BIA bolt pattern, which is a standard setup in the industry.

At 66 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for some users. The need for an unspecified battery could be a minor inconvenience. This jack plate is a solid choice for those needing a reliable, smooth-operating hydraulic lift for their outboard motor, provided the weight and battery requirement are manageable.

#2

Bob's Machine 100-108001 Action Series Jac Plate - 8", 300 HP Max

The Bob's Machine 100-108001 Action Series Jack Plate is designed for heavy-duty performance, making it a solid choice for boaters with larger outboard motors up to 300 HP. One of its significant strengths is the powerful motor, which can lift heavy outboards under full power in just six seconds, providing 7.5 inches of lift. This makes it particularly beneficial for users needing quick adjustments while on the water. The one-piece design with an internally mounted pump ensures durability and ease of maintenance.

Inclusion of a wiring harness, control switch, automotive grease fittings, and adjustable tension rods adds to its user-friendliness and reliability. With a setback of 8 inches, it offers a good balance between stability and performance enhancement. Weighing 56 pounds, it is relatively manageable but still on the heavier side, which might be a consideration for some users.

The hydraulic mechanism is a plus for those preferring automatic adjustments without manual effort. However, the product has been available since 2012, which might mean it lacks newer technological advancements. This jack plate is ideal for experienced boaters looking for a robust, reliable, and high-performing jack plate for larger outboards.

#3

Bob's Machine 100-106010 Action Series Jac Plate - 6", 300 HP Max

Rating
9.5
Material

Most important from
76 reviews

Material
Exceptional quality, typical of Bob’s products, with an updated pump cover that prevents rust.

The Bob's Machine 100-106010 Action Series Jack Plate is designed to enhance the performance of outboard motors, particularly for those looking to optimize their boat's handling and efficiency. This plate boasts a 6-inch setback, which is suitable for both general boating enthusiasts and more serious users needing to improve their boat's balance and speed. With a lift capacity of 7.5 inches and the ability to raise heavy outboards under full power in just six seconds, it provides significant efficiency benefits for users who require quick adjustments on the water.

The one-piece design with an internally mounted pump simplifies installation and contributes to its durability, while features like the included wiring harness, control switch, and adjustable tension rods add to its user-friendly appeal. Weighing in at 52 pounds, it strikes a balance between robust construction and manageability.

Users should be mindful of the weight capacity of 300 HP max, which may limit its suitability for those with larger or more powerful outboard motors. Additionally, being a hydraulic system, maintenance is essential to ensure smooth operation, which might be a consideration for some users.

Rating
9.5
Material

Most important from
76 reviews

Material
Exceptional quality, typical of Bob’s products, with an updated pump cover that prevents rust.

Buying Guide for the Best Outboard Motor Jack Plates

Choosing the right outboard motor jack plate is crucial for optimizing the performance and handling of your boat. A jack plate allows you to adjust the height of your outboard motor, which can improve fuel efficiency, speed, and overall handling. When selecting a jack plate, consider the type of boating you do, the size and weight of your boat, and the specific needs of your outboard motor. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing an outboard motor jack plate.
MaterialThe material of the jack plate is important for durability and performance. Common materials include aluminum and stainless steel. Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it a good choice for freshwater boating. Stainless steel is stronger and more durable, which is ideal for saltwater environments where corrosion is a bigger concern. Choose a material based on the type of water you will be boating in and the weight of your outboard motor.
SetbackSetback refers to the distance the jack plate sets the outboard motor back from the transom of the boat. This distance can affect the boat's balance and performance. Setbacks typically range from 4 to 12 inches. A smaller setback (4-6 inches) is suitable for smaller boats and provides better maneuverability. A larger setback (8-12 inches) can improve performance on larger boats by allowing the propeller to run in cleaner water. Consider the size and type of your boat when choosing the appropriate setback.
LiftLift is the vertical adjustment range of the jack plate, which allows you to raise or lower the outboard motor. This adjustment can help optimize the boat's performance in different water conditions. Lift ranges typically vary from 4 to 12 inches. A smaller lift range (4-6 inches) is sufficient for most recreational boating needs. A larger lift range (8-12 inches) is beneficial for performance boating or when navigating shallow waters. Determine your boating needs to select the right lift range.
Manual vs. HydraulicJack plates come in manual and hydraulic versions. Manual jack plates require you to adjust the height of the motor by hand, which can be time-consuming but is generally more affordable. Hydraulic jack plates allow you to adjust the height with the push of a button, providing convenience and precision, especially useful in varying water conditions. If you frequently change water depths or need quick adjustments, a hydraulic jack plate is a better choice. For occasional adjustments, a manual jack plate may suffice.
Weight CapacityThe weight capacity of the jack plate is crucial to ensure it can support your outboard motor. Check the maximum weight rating of the jack plate and compare it to the weight of your motor. Overloading a jack plate can lead to structural failure and unsafe boating conditions. Choose a jack plate with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your outboard motor to ensure safety and reliability.

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