jack plate recommendation...

R

reyb

Junior Member
I've been reading a lot of the jack plate threads but didn't really see any that made a clear recommendation. I have a 20" transom and I see the various jack plates available...4"- 10" setback...3" - 5" vertical. My initial thinking is that I just want to be able to hang a 25" motor but what setback and vertical do I go with?

Thanks,

Rey
'89 Wellcraft V20 Center Console
 
There are a number of plates that might do what you want. The bottom line is, all you want to do is gain about 5" height on the transom instead of rebuilding it and raising it. The least amount of setback possible would be best but I'm expecting you will have about a 5" setback.
Specifically,what type are you looking at?
Keep in mind, on the plate where it attaches to the boat, there will be about 2" of adjustment and on the motor side, about another 3" of adjustment. Meaning bolt hole patterns.

Oh and what motor is going on the boat?
 
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If you have a 150 horse or more, here is a fixed setback plate from Panther Marine that might do what you want.
I'm not sure but it looks like it does the above meantioned.
http://www.panthermarineproducts.com/pmarine/pmarine_detail.php?sku=550240
Set-back Plate Model 240 (4in) Set-back Plate Model 240 (4in)
550240m.jpg
Set-back Plate Model 240 (4in)
SKU: 550240 An innovative flared shape allows this four inch set-back bracket more transom contact area to reduce stress and improve the motor's stability. The two piece, T-6 heat treated. 1/2" anodized aluminum bracket will work with even the most powerful main engines. This is an inexpensive solution to lagging performance, while maintaining maximum durability. The pre-drilled hole patterns allow for an extensive range of motor installations.

BIA bolt patterns apply. Bracket mounting dimensions:
3" motor side x 13"
4.75" transom side x 13"
 
Depending on which site you look at, T-H Marine has one that will also work.
There has been some conflicting information as to the horse power rating on this one. One site says up to 140 horse, others say 225 horse.
thm-hijacker_200.jpg

Hi-Jacker™ Fixed Jacking Plate

This tough 3/8" thick aluminum bracket provides an inexpensive solution to mounting a long shaft outboard to a short transom. Also great as a fixed jack plate for all V6 outboards. Handles all outboards up to 225 hp. Three engine mounting holes and two transom mounting holes combined with a 3" designed lift allows a total of 5 1/2" of lift with a full four (4) inches of setback.
 
I really have no idea what exactly I'm looking for with regards to the plate. Cheap is always good, but thinking about the ones that are not adjustable makes me worry that once installed, it'll be off by an inch or so.

I mentioned in other threads about a '94 Johnson 175 OceanRunner that might still be available. I'm kind of leaning towards that way because of the cost ($2500 installed/rigged). If it's not available, then most likely a new Suzuki DF140.
 
The adjustable manual type will make you happy initially but cost almost twice as much as the fixed ones.
Once you get the height figured out, you will not need to fool with it.
Research real hard the one from Panther Marine, to me it looks like the best solution to your problem.
And when you get ready for installation, holler at us.
With the 4" setback, I'm guessing you will need the cavitation plate on the motor about 3/4" above the keel.
 
I think i've seen some adjustables ones for around $200 on eBay. Such a simple design. May be I'll pass by the local metal place and see how much the aluminum is. :)
 
One concern I have with buying the aluminum is that I don't think I can get this "T6061" (or whatever) type of aluminum. 1/2" channel shouldn't be a problem to get. I'll look for thicker stuff too.
 
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