Bob’s Machine Shop, founded in 1978 and headquartered in Tampa, Florida, is a leading U.S. manufacturer of jack plates for outboard engines. Known for innovation and durability, Bob’s Machine was the first company to produce a jack plate rated for 300 horsepower. Today, they offer a full lineup of hydraulic and manual jack plates, custom-fabricated in-house using CNC machining, marine-grade aluminum, and proprietary finishes.

Every Bob’s Machine jack plate is 100% Made in the USA, with engineering, machining, welding, assembly, powder coating, and final inspection all conducted at their Tampa facility. This domestic vertical integration allows for tighter quality control, shorter lead times, and consistent product performance across all models.

Their flagship Action Series™ hydraulic jack plates feature a fully integrated pump built into the plate housing itself, saving valuable interior space inside the boat. These units support outboards up to 625 pounds and 300 horsepower, with 6 inches of vertical lift and setback options ranging from 4 to 14 inches. The one-piece design eliminates the need for additional setback spacers, reducing weight and complexity.

Key features across Bob’s jack plate lineup include:

Automotive-style grease fittings for easy maintenance

Tension rods that reduce side play and vibration under heavy load

Optional factory-installed hole shot plates to improve lift and acceleration

Marine-grade anodized or powder-coated finishes for corrosion resistance

Hydraulic units with stainless hardware and weatherproof electrical connections

For small boats and clamp-on engines, Bob’s offers Mini Jack Plates for engines up to 50 horsepower. These compact hydraulic models weigh as little as 18 to 28 pounds, yet provide up to 6 inches of lift with a 5.5-inch setback—making them ideal for skiffs, jon boats, and technical flats boats.

Bob’s jack plates are widely used in bass fishing, inshore saltwater, offshore racing, duck hunting boats, and by boat manufacturers (OEMs). They’re also popular among government agencies and rescue craft builders due to their structural strength and long-term service reliability.

All Bob’s Machine jack plates come with a lifetime structural warranty and a 3- or 5-year warranty on hydraulic pumps, depending on the series. Their dedication to American-made quality and unmatched support has made them one of the most respected names in marine performance components.

Dial in engine height for speed, holeshot, and shallow-water access with this hydraulic 4-inch setback jack plate. The internal hydraulic pump is housed inside the plate, freeing up rigging space and simplifying installation for a tidy, reliable setup. 

Engineered for real-world performance, it delivers a total of 7.5 inches of lift (1.5 inches built into the structure plus 6 inches of adjustable travel) and is rated for outboards up to 300 HP and 625 pounds. The one-piece design adds strength while reducing flex compared to spacer-based systems, and the plate arrives pre-drilled for dual side-mount shallow-water anchor brackets. Includes wiring harness, relays, and a rocker switch for ready-to-rig convenience. ()

Built to look as good as it runs, the powder-coated gloss black finish stands up to the elements and complements modern rigs. Automotive-style grease fittings and tension rods make maintenance straightforward, helping the plate operate smoothly season after season. A limited lifetime structural warranty and dedicated pump warranty underscore long-term durability. ()

Ideal for bass, bay, and aluminum boats, this setup helps you lift the gearcase for cleaner water to the prop, reduce drag, and optimize RPM—translating to better throttle response, improved handling, and the confidence to run skinny when the bite is on. ()

Proudly made in Tampa, Florida, it represents American craftsmanship on the transom—precision-built to work hard, look sharp, and keep you chasing more water with fewer compromises. ()

Hydraulic 4-Inch Jack Plate, Action Series, Gloss Black

Jack Plates & Accessories

Space-saving hydraulic jack plate with a built-in pump and 4-inch setback for crisp holeshots and shallow-water performance. Durable gloss black powder-coat, one-piece construction, and pre-drilled Power-Pole compatibility deliver a clean, professional rig. Made in the USA for reliability on the water. 

Hydraulic 4-Inch Jack Plate, Action Series, Gloss Black

$1665.00

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