jackplate or not to jackplate?

[seabob4]

You might want to look at Detwiler too...

[RickK]

akbridge - is that a stock lower unit on that engine?

[fitz73222]

I cant over emphasize the need for hydraulic steering and a water pressure gage. The mechanical steering cable WILL break eventually with no visible signs wear. It happened to me and fortunately at low speed on a cable that was less than 5 years old! A 5 or 6" vertical change in height will begin to bind the cable internally and fray the cable. Flexible hydraulic lines with protection from chafing work very well. So add that to the parts list if you are going to do this. The water pressure gage is an obvious need. The benefits of the jack plate are worth the dollars if shallow running is part of the routine. From a performance standpoint, your holeshot will improve if you are running the right propeller with lots of cup to get the bite when planning off. I`m a great fan of stilleto props, and it takes a lot to get this prop to break loose even on high engine heights. Plan on $1500 for the whole package with a prop change, engine height gage, and steering upgrade. I`m running a CMC powerlift and spent the extra $$ for the black anodized version to eliminate the corrosion issues. After 3 years, no problems.

[akbridge]

akbridge - is that a stock lower unit on that engine?

No its not.  When I got the engine from my dad, we had just finished welding a bobs low water pick up on it.  I would not have used it.  But when the price is right and the parts are already on you run with what you have.  

I agree with fitz73222 about all of the parts.  You can get by with stock steering, props, etc.  But in order to do it right all components are best to have.  You can do it little by little.  But its nice to have everything done right.  And once you have hyd. steering you will never go back.  Smooth as silk and no feedback.

[RickK]

I thought it had a low water pickup on it.

[John Jones]

I was afraid I would have to do the low water pickup but I have the same pressure up as I do down.

[akbridge]

A low water pickup is not needed.  But it doesn't hurt.  With this setup I have idled thru about 12" of water before the bow hit ground, ran across about 18" of water in Matalacha Pass, and lowered the motor keep water around prop in a bad following sea.  All that was in one day.  I think jackplates are a great addition to any inshore/nearshore boat.  
Sorry for the high jack of this thread if anyone thinks I have.

[John Jones]

What are everyone's thoughts on me putting a jackplate on the boat?  I plan on getting a SS prop eventually after I learn the creek a little better, but I thought that a jackplate would help even if I am just idling through the creek.

Any thoughts or suggestions?  I am new to boating and have only been boating for about a year and a half so far.  Any help is appreciated.

1995 Osprey 175
Johnson 88 special

The original poster wanted thoughts on jackplates and he got them.  ;)

I doubt he will consider it hijacking.

[akbridge]

Theres a CMC jackplate for sale on Craigslist in Sarasota for $565.  Let me see if I can post his ad...


This is a Brand New jack plate made by CMC Marine. Holds up to 300hp motor. I bought it and never installed and sold the boat 3 weeks ago took it out of box to take picture. payed $685.00 Call Chris 941-735-1121



I have no affiliations with the seller.  I just thought it was a deal for basically a new jackplate.