Answering the question “which kicker plate fits my small boat?” this guide highlights eight solid options designed for small outboards in the 7.5–35 HP range. Each product is evaluated for mounting style, durability, and height adjustment. This helps buyers pick the best kicker plate based on engine size, transom type, and intended boating use. The list favors jack plates and brackets that improve engine height, reduce cavitation, and simplify mounting on smaller craft like skiffs, jon boats, and inflatables. A quick summary table follows to compare key attributes at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Height Adjustment | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camoo MJ-1-DP Jack Plate | Short shaft transoms with up to 35 HP | 4″ offset | Cast aluminum with wooden block |
| Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket | Up to 20 HP motors | Fixed lifting with manual raise/lower | 304 stainless steel |
| Mojiate 2 Stroke Bracket | 7.5–20 HP boats | 5-position adjustable height | Aluminum with plastic mount |
| YaeMarine 2 Stroke Bracket | Most 2-stroke up to 25 HP | 10.5″ lift | Stainless steel |
| Marinebaby Bracket | 7.5–20 HP boats | 5-position height | Aluminum with stainless springs |
| VELCKING MJ-1-DP Jack Plate | Up to 35 HP, small boats | 0–100 mm in 20 mm steps | Hard steel alloy |
| Vinland Marine Bracket (B0CQTLJ456) | 7.5–20 HP, trolling mounts | 5-position vertical | Painted aluminum with PP base |
| Vinland Marine Bracket (B0CPTCZ7BW) | Up to 20 HP, canoe/jon boats | 5-position vertical | SS frame with PP base |
Camoo MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4″ Setback
Best for: Small boats with short shaft transoms that need a longer shaft engine alignment. This cast aluminum jack plate extends 4″ off the transom, improving motor height and handling on short-shaft motors. The wooden block included helps ensure a precise, secure fit. Limitation: Wooden components can be affected by moisture; consider sealing the block for long-term durability.
Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket
Best for: Lightweight, budget-conscious setups with up to 20 HP. Features a durable stainless steel base and a plastic mounting plate. Caution: Manual lifting is required to raise and lower the motor, which may be less convenient for frequent adjustments.
Mojiate 2 Stroke Motor Bracket
Best for: Small-to-mid sized boats needing a robust, adjustable mount at five height positions. The aluminum frame and plastic mounting plate balance strength and weight. Limitation: Not recommended for 4-stroke motors, which may have different mounting needs.
YaeMarine 2 Stroke Bracket
Best for: Boats using up to 25 HP 2-stroke motors requiring a sturdy stainless build with a 10.5″ lift. The stainless steel construction provides corrosion resistance in saltwater environments. Consideration: Not designed for 4-stroke engines, which often need different mounting alignment.
Marinebaby Aluminum Bracket
Best for: 7.5–20 HP two-stroke motors, with counter-balanced springs for easier lifting. The solid polypropylene mounting board offers a stable base. Caution: The data suggests it’s optimized for lighter motors; heavier engines may require a reinforced setup.
VELCKING MJ-1-DP Jack Plate
Best for: Small boats with up to 35 HP engines seeking adjustable height from 0 to 100 mm. The inclusion of rubber mounting pads and stainless screws helps prevent damage to the transom and crossmember. Consideration: Heavy steel alloy construction may be more challenging to drill out or modify for unique transom shapes.
Vinland Marine Bracket B0CQTLJ456
Best for: 7.5–20 HP engines with a robust, spring-loaded, five-position adjustable bracket. The stainless steel frame and PP base emphasize stability and corrosion resistance. Limitation: Heavier-duty build may require careful mounting alignment for smaller transoms.
Vinland Marine Bracket B0CPTCZ7BW
Best for: Canoe or jon boat applications with up to 20 HP engines. The 304 stainless steel frame and PP base offer reliable support and corrosion resistance. Avoid this option if you need a higher weight capacity beyond 115 lbs or 20 HP range.
Buying Guide
What size engine do you have? Choose a kicker plate that supports your horsepower (HP) and shaft length. For short transoms, a 4″ setback or adjustable height can improve cavitation and tilt. What environment will you boat in? Stainless steel or alloy construction is better for saltwater conditions. How often will you adjust height? Look for multi-position or fine-step adjustments to fine-tune trim and balance. Is weight a concern? Lighter brackets reduce loading on the transom but may limit max HP or lift. Do you need quick installation? Some models include mounting blocks, rubber pads, and hardware for faster setup. Consider a model with a compatible mounting pattern for your transom and crossmember.
FAQ
- What is a kicker plate and what does it do? A kicker plate raises the engine height and offers mounting stability, improving performance and control on small boats.
- Do I need a long shaft or short shaft compatible plate? Short-shaft transoms benefit from adjustable or 4″ setback plates; long-shaft engines often require compatible mounting height ranges.
- Are stainless steel brackets better than aluminum? Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance, especially in saltwater; aluminum is lighter and cost-effective.
- Can I install a kicker plate myself? Many plates include mounting hardware and blocks; however, check compatibility with your transom and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
- What maintenance is required? Inspect mounting bolts, lubricate moving parts if applicable, and seal wooden blocks to resist moisture if used.
- Which option is best for multi-engine setups? For boats with varying engines, choose a model with multiple height positions or adjustable range to accommodate different motors.