Looking for the right kicker plate or jack plate to lift your outboard for better performance and control? This guide highlights five reliable options designed for small engines (7.5–35 HP). Each product is explained with who it’s best for, what makes it stand out, and any limitations to consider. Ideal buyers include bareboat skiff owners, small aluminum boats, inflatables, and anglers who want easier motor positioning and improved handling.
Summary table of selected products:
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Camoo MJ-1-DP Jack Plate | Short shaft transoms on small boats | 4″ setback; wooden mounting block included |
| VELCKING MJ-1-DP Jack Plate | Adjustable height on small engines | 5–position height adjustment; durable steel alloy |
| Vinland Marine Outboard Motor Mount Bracket (20 HP) | Heavy-duty 2-stroke brackets | Aluminum frame; 20 HP max; robust mounting plate |
| YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket | 2-stroke motors up to 25 HP | All stainless, multiple mounting dimensions |
| Marinebaby Aluminum Motor Bracket | Small to mid-size boats with 7.5–20 HP | Stainless springs; polypropylene mounting board |
Camoo MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback
Best for clamp-on outboard motors up to 35 HP on short transoms. This cast aluminum offset jack plate extends 4″ off the transom and includes a wooden mounting block for a secure fit. Ideal for small skiffs, aluminum boats, and inflatables that require a longer motor shaft or adjusted mounting height.
- Best for: Short-shaft transoms needing higher engine mounting height
- Why selected: Provides a solid 4″ setback with a included wood block for precise fit
- Caution: Wooden block compatibility with certain mounting methods may require additional fitting on some boats
Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket Up To 20 HP
This 2-stroke outboard motor bracket is built from 304 stainless steel with a plastic base, designed for up to 20 HP. Its manual lifting mechanism helps position lightweight motors for better balance on smaller boats. It’s best for anglers using lightweight auxiliary engines on dinghies and small boats.
- Best for: Lightweight, 20 HP motors on small craft
- Why selected: Durable stainless steel construction with a simple manual lift
- Caution: Not ideal for heavier 4-stroke motors or high-wake conditions
Mojiate 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket
The 2-stroke bracket supports 7.5 HP to 20 HP motors with a heavy-duty aluminum frame and a plastic mounting plate. It features a 5-position adjustable locking height to fine-tune engine alignment, making it suitable for small to midsize powerboats where weight balance is critical.
- Best for: 2-stroke motors needing height adjustments
- Why selected: Adjustable height plus durable, corrosion-resistant components
- Caution: Not recommended for 4-stroke or very heavy motors
VELCKING MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback
VELCKING’s MJ-1-DP offers 4″ setback with adjustable height and includes mounting hardware. Made from heavy-duty steel alloy, it adds versatility and durability for small boats that need more engine height adjustment without compromising stability.
- Best for: Adjusting engine height on compact boats
- Why selected: Adjustable height in 20 mm increments for precise tuning
- Caution: Heavier construction may require more mounting hardware clearance
Vinland Marine Outboard Motor Mount Bracket (20 HP)
Vinland Marine’s aluminum bracket is designed for 7.5–20 HP engines with a maximum weight of 115 pounds. The mount features a spring-loaded, five-position vertical adjustability system for better balance and positioning on small boats such as jon boats, bass trackers, or canoes.
- Best for: Small boats needing strong aluminum support
- Why selected: High weight capacity within the 20 HP range and sturdy construction
- Caution: Not specified for 4-stroke engines; verify compatibility with your motor
Vinland Marine Outboard Motor Mount Bracket For 20HP, Black PP Base
This stainless steel bracket with a black polypropylene base provides a robust mount for up to 20 HP. Its four- or five-position vertical adjustability supports consistent engine height, making it a reliable choice for jon boats and small fishing boats.
- Best for: 20 HP outboards needing sturdy stainless construction
- Why selected: Wide track and reinforced welded frame for durability
- Caution: Check overall length and mounting clearances on your transom
Buying Guide: What To Consider When Choosing A Kicker Plate
- Engine compatibility: Confirm HP rating (7.5–35 HP commonly), shaft type (short vs. long), and weight to ensure the plate supports your motor.
- Transom and hull type: Consider whether your boat is a skiff, aluminum boat, inflatable, or bass tracker, as mounting blocks and blocks’ shapes vary.
- Mounting hardware: Look for pre-drilled patterns, included mounting hardware, and whether a wooden block or PP base is supplied to ensure a secure installation.
- Height adjustment range: A wider adjustment range provides more tuning options for performance and ride comfort on different water conditions.
- Materials and durability: Aluminum and stainless steel components resist corrosion; consider 304 stainless steel for higher exposure to saltwater and routine spray.
- Maintenance and serviceability: Simple lifting mechanisms and accessible mounting points make ongoing maintenance easier on the water.
- Weight and balance: Heavier brackets can affect boat balance; choose a weight-bearing bracket suitable for the boat size and crew.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a kicker plate and why would I need one? A kicker plate raises or extends the engine mounting point to improve propeller engagement and boat handling, especially on short transoms or when using a longer shaft engine.
- Can I install a kicker plate on any boat? Most 4″–4.5″ setback plates fit on many small boats, but you should verify transom thickness, mounting pattern, and motor compatibility before purchasing.
- Do I need professional installation? For basic brackets and jack plates, many boat owners install them themselves with standard tools; more complex setups or high-wake boats may require a professional.
- Are 2-stroke engine brackets compatible with 4-stroke outboards? Not always; check the manufacturer’s HP rating and motor type to ensure compatibility with your engine.
- How do I choose between a jack plate and a simple motor bracket? Jack plates adjust engine height and setback actively; simple brackets mainly provide lateral support and mounting options without height changes.
- Is corrosion resistance important for kicker plates? Yes, especially in saltwater or high-humidity environments; look for stainless steel components and corrosion-resistant aluminum.