Jack plate vs. transom extend = confusion

[lakelover]

The boat is a 15? Starcraft Jet Star, motor is a 200 lb. 50 hp long shaft Johnson. (The Jet Star has the seats forward, back to back, not two in the back like the Jet, so passenger weight would be more forward).

I?ve done tons of research and reading here about both extending the height of the transom or using a jack plate in order to use a 20? motor on a 15? transom. With all the sometimes conflicting information I?ve found I?m totally confused about which method to decide on for my case. I have seen the same poster in different threads claim that jack plates do and do not add stress to the transom.

So there are some things I hope people can clarify about jack plates:

-How does the setback of a jack plate affect the balance/performance of a boat? Use of the boat will be primarily cruising around with 2-4 people.

-How does it affect getting up on plane?

-Does a motor mounted that way add stress to the transom? (It seems to me, yes). Or is it just not very appreciable with a 200 lb. motor set back 3-4??

-Jack plate = less work, but are there advantages/disadvantages in terms of safety, handling, or performance?

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Jack plate vs. transom extend = confusion

So there are some things I hope people can clarify about jack plates:

-How does the setback of a jack plate affect the balance/performance of a boat? Use of the boat will be primarily cruising around with 2-4 people.

-How does it affect getting up on plane?

-Does a motor mounted that way add stress to the transom? (It seems to me, yes). Or is it just not very appreciable with a 200 lb. motor set back 3-4??

-Jack plate = less work, but are there advantages/disadvantages in terms of safety, handling, or performance?

Balance would be moved towards the stern. I've heard that they accually help in the performance of the boat.

As for the getting on plane, i have nothing.

Does it add stress, YES. Hold a 10lb weight with one hand in close to your body for 3 mins. then take the same weight and hold it out at arms lenght.
I bet you can t get half that time.

If your looking to put a long shaft motor on a short transom boat, I'd look for a short shaft motor, OR just make an extension out of wood and a piece of alum sheet.

It sounds like you have done all the research needed and know that answer, you just need a little push. Go with what you think is best, do it to the best of your abillity.

 

[lakelover]

Re: Jack plate vs. transom extend = confusion

It sounds like you have done all the research needed and know that answer, you just need a little push. Go with what you think is best, do it to the best of your abillity.

I thought I had decided, but now I'm going back and forth again, feeling that I don't have all the lowdown on jack plates!