Jack Plate?

[Boss Hawg]

Just picked up a 1983 Ranger 375-V 20' Bassboat that has a 10" jackplate with a 175hp Johnson bolted to it -
Question is what is (if any) the purpose of having the Jackplate
Don't have anything against the looks or anything- just dont understand the usefullness of it
Anyone enlighten me :redface:

 

[swick]

Re: Jack Plate?

I'm no expert but I'll pass along my limited insight. I've read that the jack plate is beneficial in some instances because it basically jacks the motor up out of the water, more so than it would have been without one. This causes the engine to perform differently, in most cases makes the boat faster, because the prop isn't submerged quite as deep. I guess it really depends on what you want your boat to do and how you want it to perform. I would probably just leave it in place. You shold also be able to move the motor up or down on the jack plate if you so desire.

 

[HAV2FISH]

Re: Jack Plate?

It increases the top end of the boat by a few mph and it also lets you run in shallower water. Also lets you take off in shallower water.

 

[Boss Hawg]

Re: Jack Plate?

It increases the top end of the boat by a few mph and it also lets you run in shallower water. Also lets you take off in shallower water.

Not concerned with top end but the running in more shallow water will be a plus

 

[xxturbowesxx]

Re: Jack Plate?

It allows you to dial in your motor height and if its hydraulic it lets you do it faster and will help with running shallow. The setback(10") allows the motor to lift the bow of the boat more to air it out for more speed.