What Is the Function of a Boat Jack Plate?
A boat jack plate is mounted on the transom of the boat and controls the vertical movement of the outboard engine. Boats with inboard engines do not have jack plates, and not all boats with outboard engines come equipped with jack plates. However, a qualified marine mechanic can install a jack plate.
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Installation
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A jack plate is mounted on the boat's transom and then the outboard engine is mounted to the moving part of the plate.
Function
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The jack plate adds vertical engine movement to go along with the tilt and trim functions of outboard motors. This allows for greater stability in shallow water, as the engine is less prone to cavitation (excessive water aeration due to inefficient displacement by the propeller) when moved vertically.
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Advantages
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A boat in shallow water may run aground or be unable to navigate if the engine is deep enough in the water to hit bottom. The jack plate allows the engine to be raised high enough to function without forcing the stern of the boat down farther, as happens when the engine is tilted away from the boat to raise it.
Increased Efficiency
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The less engine weight you have to drag through the water, the less fuel you will use. A jack plate allows you to raise the engine as high as conditions will allow for less drag and optimum performance.
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References
- Photo Credit fishermen image by pearlguy from Fotolia.com
