Jacking Up An Aluminum Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Jack plates are a device used to enhance the performance of a boat by allowing the user to adjust the motor's height and position. They are particularly useful for boats that operate in shallow waters, as they provide additional lift and improve the efficiency of the propeller. However, there are conflicting opinions on whether jack plates are suitable for aluminium boats. Some boat manufacturers, such as Alumacraft, do not recommend the use of jack plates on their aluminium boats, citing potential issues with the transom and motor angle. Others argue that jack plates can provide benefits such as increased speed and improved handling, even for aluminium boats. Ultimately, the decision to use a jack plate depends on various factors, including the specific boat model, the type of water body it will be used in, and the user's preferences for performance and customisation.

Jack plates: worth the money?

Jack plates are an excellent addition to your boat. They are a simple add-on bracket that allows your outboard engine to adjust up and down. They are particularly useful for shallow waters, as they can help you pull up your motor to avoid mechanical breakdowns caused by obstacles. They can also improve engine performance and fuel efficiency.

There are two main types of jack plates: manual and hydraulic. Manual jack plates are cheaper and less bulky, but require the cumbersome process of loosening nuts and bolts to change the mounting position. Hydraulic jack plates, on the other hand, use hydraulic pressure to move the position of the outboard engine at the command of the operator, saving the boat owner from having to make adjustments manually.

When deciding between a manual and hydraulic jack plate, consider your specific needs and budget. If you are using a boat for recreational purposes and find yourself needing to change the position of the outboard motor regularly, a hydraulic jack plate is recommended. If you are on a stricter budget and don't need to make frequent adjustments, a manual jack plate may be a better option.

It's important to note that installing a jack plate may void your boat and motor's warranty, so be sure to check before purchasing. Additionally, some manufacturers do not recommend adding a jack plate to certain models of boats, as it can put extra strain on the transom and cause the motor to sit at an unsafe angle.

Overall, jack plates can be a great investment for boat owners, especially those who frequently navigate shallow waters or want to improve engine performance and fuel efficiency. They offer better handling, even in rough weather and shallow waters, and can help protect your engine from damage.

Jack plates and boat warranties

Jack plates can be a great addition to an aluminium boat, offering better performance, control, and fuel economy. However, it is important to note that adding a jack plate may void the warranty on your boat.

Warranty Concerns

Before installing a jack plate, it is crucial to check your boat and motor's warranty. An aftermarket jack plate might void the warranty on both the boat and the motor. Alumacraft, for instance, does not recommend adding a jack plate to their boats, as it puts extra strain on the transom and causes the motor to sit at an unsafe angle.

Benefits of Jack Plates

Jack plates give you control over your outboard's position, allowing you to adjust the propeller and shaft to match your operating conditions. They can be particularly useful when navigating shallow waters, as you can raise the motor to avoid obstacles and reduce turbulence.

Additionally, jack plates can improve your boat's hole shot, handling, and top speed. By setting back the motor, you can position the propeller in cleaner, less turbulent water, allowing it to "grab" the water better. This also increases the mechanical advantage of the motor, helping to raise the bow out of the water.

Choosing the Right Jack Plate

When choosing a jack plate, you'll need to consider the horsepower of your motor and the amount of setback you require. The setback refers to how far the jack plate extends past the transom, and it affects the leverage the motor has on the boat. Generally, you want the motor's cavitation plate to be slightly above the bottom of the boat transom to avoid drag and RPM loss.

You can choose between a hydraulic or manual jack plate. Hydraulic jack plates are more expensive but offer more flexibility, as they can be adjusted on the fly. Manual jack plates are more affordable and work well if you primarily want to find the best position for your engine and lock it down.

How jack plates improve performance

Jack plates can improve the performance of a boat in several ways. Firstly, they allow for optimal 'setback', which refers to the distance between the motor and the transom. By increasing the setback, the motor can access cleaner, less turbulent water, which improves the efficiency of the propeller. This results in better hole shot, handling, and top-end speed. Additionally, jack plates enable the adjustment of engine height, which can reduce drag and improve speed and fuel economy. This is especially beneficial when navigating shallow waters, as the engine can be raised to avoid obstacles and improve performance in these conditions.

The benefits of jack plates extend beyond performance enhancements. They can also increase the boating area's accessibility by allowing entry into shallower waters. This is achieved by raising the engine, which reduces the draft required to navigate these areas. Furthermore, jack plates can assist in reducing corrosion by lifting the motor out of the water when docking.

While jack plates offer these advantages, it is important to consider potential drawbacks and limitations. Some boat manufacturers, such as Alumacraft, do not recommend adding jack plates to their aluminum boats as they believe it puts extra strain on the transom and causes the motor to sit at an unsafe angle. It is crucial to check with the boat manufacturer and review warranty information before installing an aftermarket jack plate.

The impact of jack plates on boat performance can vary depending on hull design. For example, aluminum boats with a pad, such as the Lund Pro-V's and Renegade, may benefit more from jack plates as the propeller operates in relatively undisturbed water when the boat is on plane. On the other hand, semi-vee tin hulls may see minimal performance improvements from jack plates.

Overall, jack plates can provide significant performance benefits, particularly in terms of speed, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. However, it is important to consider the specific boat design, intended use cases, and manufacturer recommendations before deciding to install a jack plate.

Manual vs hydraulic jack plates

Jack plates are a great way to improve the performance of your aluminum boat. They allow you to adjust the height of your engine, which can lead to better speed, fuel efficiency, and handling. However, before installing a jack plate, it is important to check your boat and motor's warranty as it may void them.

When it comes to choosing between a manual and a hydraulic jack plate, there are several factors to consider. Manual jack plates are generally more affordable and lighter than hydraulic ones. They often use a large screw mechanism or a roller type design with locks on the guides to adjust the height of the engine. While they may require more effort to adjust, they provide a clean look and have fewer moving parts, reducing the risk of breakdowns.

On the other hand, hydraulic jack plates offer unparalleled power and precision. Their robust hydraulic systems allow for effortless and precise adjustments, making them ideal for larger boats or those carrying heavy loads. Hydraulic jack plates are also highly adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune your boat's performance to suit different conditions. However, they are usually more expensive and may require professional installation due to their complex hydraulic systems.

Both types of jack plates have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and comfort level with installation and maintenance. If you are looking for raw power and precision, hydraulic jack plates are the way to go. However, if you prioritize affordability, simplicity, and flexibility, a manual jack plate might be a better option.

Ultimately, jack plates can significantly improve your boating experience, providing you with enhanced speed, fuel efficiency, and handling capabilities. By choosing the right type of jack plate for your aluminum boat, you can conquer any waterway with confidence and style.

Jack plate setbacks

Jack plates are used to improve an outboard boat's speed, hole shot, fuel efficiency, and ability to navigate shallow waters. The setback is the distance from where the jack plate mounts on the boat (the transom) to where it mounts to the motor.

The purpose of a jack plate is to raise and lower the engine within the water. The pilot can set the engine depth in the water, which is helpful when controlling a tendency to "porpoise" (bounce up and down). Jack plates are particularly useful for boats running in super shallow waters, such as bay boats, flats boats, or skiffs.

The required setback for a jack plate depends on the length of the boat. As a general rule, the longer the boat, the farther back the outboard should be from the transom. For boats 20' and longer, a 10" jack plate is recommended. Boats just under 20' long typically use a 6" or 8" jack plate, while boats under 18' long use a 4" jack plate.

It's important to note that adding a jack plate to an aluminum boat may void the warranty on the transom, as it puts extra strain on the transom and causes the motor to sit at an unsafe angle. However, some boat manufacturers, such as Crestliner, allow the use of jack plates without voiding the warranty.

Frequently asked questions