Best Kick and Jack Plate Solutions for Boats and Doors
Answering buyers’ questions about protecting lower units and door edges, this guide highlights top kick and jack plate options. The selections cover boat outboard protection and door kick plates for durability. Best for boaters navigating shallow waters or users seeking sturdy door protection, each choice is explained with suitability and limits to help you compare quickly. A summary table below lists the featured products for fast reference.
| Product | Brand | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Bob’s Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series Kick-Back Jac | Bob’s Machine | Shallow-water navigation; protecting lower units |
| Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate | Bob’s Machine Shop | Outboard protection; compatibility with higher HP engines |
| Rockwood 085845 Kick Plate | Rockwood | Door edge protection; durable stainless option |
| Prime-Line MP4618 Kick Plate | PRIME-LINE | Customizable door protection for interior/exterior doors |
| Prime-Line J 4619 Kick Plate | PRIME-LINE | Stainless steel kick plate for doors; durable hardware match |
Bob’s Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series Kick-Back Jac
The hydraulic kick-back jack offers a 6″ stroke with a built-in lift of 1.5″, totaling 7.5″ of lift. It is designed to raise the lower unit to reduce strike risk when navigating shallow water or encountering submerged objects. Best for boaters who need adjustable clearance and smooth operation, with Delrin rollers and a motor tether attachment point for safety. Limitations include the need for proper mounting space and compatible hydromechanical setup.
Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate
Designed for outboards up to 115 HP, this kick-back jac plate provides Delrin rollers and bearings for smooth operation and a motor tether attachment point for safety. Best for mid-range marine setups seeking reliable protection without excessive weight. Choose this if your engine is in the 90–115 HP range; avoid if you require higher horsepower compatibility or different mounting configurations.
Rockwood 085845 Kick Plate
Rectangular kick plate with a 4″ width and 35″ length, stainless steel finish. Includes mounting fasteners for installation. Stainless steel provides corrosion resistance in mild environments. Best for doors needing a durable, corrosion-resistant plate; better for long-term indoor or exterior use. A potential limitation is bulkiness for very narrow door applications.
Prime-Line MP4618 Kick Plate
8″ x 34″ kick plate with a brite brass plated finish on aluminum. Custom sizes are available through special order from the manufacturer. Best for decorative doors where a bright brass look is desired and easy fitting. Limited by specialized finish options; consider alternative finishes if brass is not suitable for your project.
Prime-Line J 4619 Kick Plate
8″ x 34″ stainless steel kick plate with pre-drilled mounting holes. Built to prevent scuff marks and damage on swinging doors. Best for doors that require a durable, corrosion-resistant finish and ready-to-install alignment. Limitation: stainless steel may be heavier than aluminum options and could require additional mounting consideration.
Otoolling Stainless Steel Kick Plate
1 pack of 4 x 240 inch stainless steel kick plates with self-adhesive backing. Suitable for interior or exterior walls, kitchens, cupboards, and more. Best for quick installations and versatile trimming. Caution: the long length may require careful measuring and trimming to fit specific spots.
Rockwood 10 X 34.32D Kick Plate
Rectangular kick plate with stainless steel satin finish; 34″ width and 10″ height. Designed to protect the lower portion of a door. Best for wider doors requiring robust protection; suitable for doors up to 36″ wide on the push side. Consider width constraints for narrower entrances.
Prime-Line J 4693 Kick Plate
10″ x 34″ kick plate made of stamped aluminum with corrosion-resistant finish. Designed to fit aluminum screen frames and coordinate with existing hardware. Best for aluminum-framed setups and easy integration. Limitation: aluminum finish may wear differently with heavy use compared to stainless options.
Buying Guide
Key considerations to choose the right kick and jack plate:
- Intended environment: marine use favors corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel; interior doors may suit aluminum or brass finishes.
- Size and fit: measure door or mounting area to ensure correct width, height, and thickness of the plate or jack system.
- Load and HP compatibility: for outboard protection, ensure the plate supports your engine size and mounting requirements.
- Finish and aesthetics: select a finish that matches hardware and décor (stainless, brass, satin, etc.).
- Installation method: self-adhesive backings offer quick installs; pre-drilled holes require exact alignment.
- Maintenance: consider ease of cleaning and resistance to wear in high-traffic areas or exposure to moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between a kick plate and a jack plate?
– Kick plates protect door edges from scuffs and damage. Jack plates elevate and protect the lower unit of a boat’s outboard in shallow water. - Which material lasts longest for exterior doors?
– Stainless steel and brass finishes tend to resist corrosion and wear better in outdoor environments. - How do I know if a kick plate fits my door?
– Check the plate’s width, height, and mounting hole pattern against your door and mounting surface. - Can kick plates be trimmed?
– Yes, many kick plates can be trimmed with standard tools to fit nonstandard openings. - Are self-adhesive kick plates reliable long-term?
– They are convenient for quick installs, but for heavy use or outdoor exposure, screw mounting may be more secure. - Should I choose a brass or stainless finish?
– Brass offers an aesthetic option, while stainless provides higher corrosion resistance in moist environments.