Best Kick Plates for Outboard Motors: Height, Safety, and Performance
Direct answer: For outboard motors, the best kick plates and jack plates provide engine height adjustment, reduce damage from shallow water or submerged objects, and improve handling. This guide highlights five top options suited for boaters who need adjustable, durable mounting solutions. Ideal buyers include casual freshwater sailors, anglers navigating shallows, and performance-minded skippers who repower or optimize shaft length. Below, you’ll find concise overviews, choosing tips, and a buyer’s guide to help compare height adjustment, material, and mounting compatibility.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMC BA-130 Breakaway unit 13003 | Tricky shallow-water weaving and caution-needed docking | Breakaway design; supports engines up to 130 HP | Not for reverse-direction obstructions |
| Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate | Mid-range HP outboards; smooth operation | Delrin rollers; safety tether | Limited to 115 HP |
| Bob’s Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series | Shallow-water navigation with heavy-duty lift | 6″ hydraulic stroke; total 7.5″ lift; safety tether | Heavier and more complex than basic plates |
| 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support | Small to mid-size boats; portability | Adjustable height; durable aluminum frame | Not ideal for 4-stroke motors |
| VEPURLT Jack Plate JPL4500 | Long-shaft compensation; flexible mounting | 6″ vertical adjustment; aircraft-grade aluminum | Higher-end feature set |
CMC BA-130 Breakaway Unit 13003
The CMC BA-130 Breakaway unit is designed for outboards up to 130 HP. It sits between the transom and the motor, helping to protect the lower unit when encountering shallow water or submerged objects. Best for boaters who need a straightforward, robust solution that prioritizes engine protection in moderate-depth scenarios. This unit is not intended for operation where the boat repeatedly hits obstructions while moving in reverse, which can limit its use in tight backwater conditions. The design emphasizes reliable separation during impact to preserve gear integrity.
Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate
The Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate focuses on smooth operation with Delrin rollers and bearings, designed for outboards up to 115 HP. It includes a motor tether attachment point for safety and helps maintain stable engine height when moving through variable water depths. This option is well-suited for boaters seeking improved ride quality and a practical safety feature. Choose this if your motor falls within its HP range and you want reliable, low-friction rotation and attachment points. A potential limitation is compatibility with higher-horsepower setups.
Bob’s Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series Kick-Back Jac
This hydraulic action jack plate provides a 6″ hydraulic stroke with an integrated 1.5″ lift, totaling about 7.5″ lift. It is designed to elevate the engine to clear shallow water, reduce bottom contact, and protect the lower unit in debris-prone or shallow environments. The setup includes Delrin rollers and a motor tether attachment for safety. Best for boaters needing a substantial lift and smoother, hydraulically assisted operation. Limitation: hydraulic systems may require more maintenance and space for installation than simpler mechanical plates.
2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support
This 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support is designed for 7.5 HP to 20 HP two-stroke engines. It features a reinforced welded aluminum frame, heavy-duty stainless steel springs, and a solid plastic mounting board. Height adjustment is available with a 5-position locking system, providing practical balance and ease of lifting for small to mid-size boats. Best for smaller, lighter motors and budgets. Not recommended for larger, heavier four-stroke engines due to structural limits.
VEPURLT Jack Plate JPL4500
The VEPURLT JPL4500 offers a 6-inch vertical adjustment using high-strength polished aircraft-grade aluminum. It is designed to compensate for long-shaft engines on various transoms, aiding steering control and improved waterline alignment. Best for boats requiring significant height adjustment with durable construction. Potential limitation is its more premium price point compared to basic fixed plates.
T-H Marine – 3001.1005 CMC Manual Jack Plates
The T-H Marine manual jack plates feature a one-piece design with a 5″ vertical adjustment and solid 6061-T6 extruded aluminum construction. They are rated for up to V6 outboards, offering a robust option for users needing a reliable, universal-fit plate. Best for versatile mounting and straightforward height changes without hydraulic components. Limitation: manual adjustment may require more effort during setup or frequent height changes.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a kick plate or jack plate for an outboard motor:
- Engine compatibility: Confirm HP range and shaft length compatibility with your motor. Some plates are rated for up to specific HP levels, while others support a wide range.
- Adjustment method: Hydraulic, hydraulic-assisted, or manual. Hydraulic options offer easier and smoother height changes, while manual systems are simpler and often cheaper.
- Material and corrosion resistance: Look for aluminum construction and corrosion resistance for longevity in saltwater or freshwater environments.
- Mounting and weight: Ensure mounting points align with your transom and that the plate does not significantly alter boat balance or added weight excessively.
- Safety features: Tether points, roller bearings, and secure locking mechanisms reduce risk during operation and installation.
- Installation footprint: Consider the space required for installation, maintenance access, and compatibility with other transom-mounted accessories.
Comparison at a Glance
- Best for high protection and moderate lifting: CMC BA-130 Breakaway Unit 13003
- Best for smooth operation and safety: Bob’s Machine Kick-Back Jac Plate
- Best for substantial lift with hydraulic action: Bob’s Machine 100-105100 Hydraulic Action Series
- Best for compact, small boats: 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support
- Best for adjustable height and long-shaft compensation: VEPURLT Jack Plate JPL4500
FAQ
- What is a kick plate for an outboard motor?
A kick plate, often called a jack plate, is a mounting accessory that adjusts the height of the engine above the transom to optimize performance, reduce underwater strike risk, and improve water flow characteristics. - Who should consider a hydraulic jack plate?
Boaters who regularly navigate shallow waters or encounter varying depths benefit from hydraulic or hydraulic-assisted plates for quick and precise height changes. - Are these plates interchangeable between brands?
Compatibility depends on transom design, mounting pattern, and shaft length. Always verify mounting dimensions and HP limits before purchasing. - Do kick plates affect boat handling?
Yes. Properly elevated engines can improve water flow, reduce cavitation, and stabilize control at different speeds and load conditions. Incorrect height can worsen handling or efficiency. - What maintenance is required?
Clean hardware, inspect rollers or bearings for wear, and check mounting bolts for tightness. Hydraulic systems may require occasional fluid checks per manufacturer guidance. - Can I install a kick plate myself?
Yes for many models, but complex hydraulic systems or larger plates may require professional installation to ensure proper alignment and safety.