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10 Best Outboard Motor Jack Plates 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

T-H Marine - 3002.1023 65302 CMC PL-65 High Speed Hydraulic Jack Plate

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,449
Setback
Lift

Most important from
43 reviews

Setback
TH Marine always has quality systems to fine-tune motor height without requiring a lot of setback.
Lift
Easy to install and wire up; full, fast height adjustment even at high speed.

The T-H Marine 3002.1023 CMC PL-65 High Speed Hydraulic Jack Plate is a solid choice for boaters looking to enhance their outboard motors' performance. It’s designed for both fresh and saltwater use, making it versatile for various marine environments. One of its standout features is the lack of welds or castings, which can often be weak points in other products. This design choice helps ensure durability under tough boating conditions.

Offering 5 inches of vertical travel, along with 1.5 inches of adjustment both on the motor bracket and the transom bracket, it allows for significant customization to meet individual boating needs. This is especially beneficial for users who want to fine-tune their boat's performance for speed or handling.

With a weight capacity of 8,538 pounds, the jack plate is capable of supporting V-6 motors and smaller, making it suitable for a wide range of boat types. Its hydraulic operation is generally smoother than manual alternatives, providing ease of use when adjusting motor height while on the water. Potential buyers should be aware that the weight of the jack plate itself is 28 pounds, which may add to the overall load of the boat, affecting performance if not calculated correctly. The T-H Marine PL-65 jack plate is a reliable and well-constructed accessory that meets the demands of many boating enthusiasts, providing significant lift and adjustability while being easy to use. Just ensure that it aligns with your boat's specifications to get the most out of this upgrade.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,449
Setback
Lift

Most important from
43 reviews

Setback
TH Marine always has quality systems to fine-tune motor height without requiring a lot of setback.
Lift
Easy to install and wire up; full, fast height adjustment even at high speed.
#2

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.

#3

Boating Accessories New Jack Plate 6" Hydraulic Bob's Machine Shop 100-106000

Rating
9.1
Manual vs. Hydraulic

Most important from
2 reviews

Manual vs. Hydraulic
Effortless motor height adjustment is complemented by a smooth hydraulic lift system.

The Boating Accessories New Jack Plate 6" Hydraulic from Bob's Machine Shop is designed to help boaters adjust their outboard motor height more easily thanks to its hydraulic lift system. This allows you to raise or lower the motor smoothly without manual effort, providing quick and precise control on the water. It supports a weight capacity between 1.5 and 3 tons, making it suitable for most medium to large outboard motors. The product weighs just 1 pound, making it relatively lightweight and easy to install or handle.

The jack plate’s color options (black, silver, red) might appeal if you want something matching your boat’s style, adding a minor aesthetic benefit.

For those seeking a jack plate with hydraulic lift capable of handling a decent load and offering easy motor adjustments, this product represents a good fit.

Rating
9.1
Manual vs. Hydraulic

Most important from
2 reviews

Manual vs. Hydraulic
Effortless motor height adjustment is complemented by a smooth hydraulic lift system.

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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