Great Lakes Bass Fishing Forum

I am going to replace my non-adjustable jack plate with one that can be adjusted manually by turning one bolt. My question is, do they work? I mean, are they really as easy to adjust as it looks?

I was considering a CMC or a JPL jack plate. They look similar and are both 1 piece units with single bolt adjustability.

Thanks for any help.

Willie

I had a jackplate tear two years ago. I did not notice it until I was home washing the boat. My heart fell into my stomach when I saw it. I could of had a real catastrophy. I really do not want to name any names. The cause was metal fatigue from motor torque. The manufacturer requested the plate be returned for inspection and they replaced it for free. I sold that plate as soon as I received it.
I did alot of research on plates.
The manual jack plate that I ended up buying was made by Vance Manufacturing.
http://www.vancemfg.com/ (http://www.vancemfg.com/)
I personally talked to the owner of this company. This guy knows his stuff.
When I received the plate, it was obvious that his design had taken into account the added stress for my application and that he understood where bracing and added material should be used.
I am very pleased with his product and you will be too.

As far as ease of adjusting. Yes it is not difficult BUT this is not something you can do on the fly on the water. For that you need a hydraulic plate.

Thanks for the info. The JPL jack plate that I am considering is made by Vance Mfg. Also, I wasn't looking to adjust on the fly, I don't need hydraulics. I just want to be able to adjust it at the dock or beached at the launch, so I can go right back out and see the results.

Willie