2024 RT198P Ranger Jack Plate / Transom Warranty - Can someone explain?

[TheGreyFox]

Hello all. Stumbled across this forum and appears there isn't a better place to post this question.

2024 RT198P

Want to install the dual Power Pole 8' Blades on a 6" Bobs hydraulic jack plate. The website posts options to build a boat with a 6" (Slidemaster) manual jack plate for dual power poles. Website also offers a 4" hydraulic jackplate for what its worth. The dealer (Cabelas/Bass Pro) resulted in the dealer asking the Ranger warranty department if it would be covered if the dealer installs it. The official answer came back as "not covered" but also had the Ranger reps shaking their head as to no logical reason why the answer is no from corporate. The variance should be the hydraulic pump and lines correct? Small weight variance?

Does or has anyone else have or had different feedback? Anyone else have insight?

[Jbass123]

Just a guess here, but hydraulic plates do weigh more than mechanical plates, and it’s possible the factory has done some testing and determined that extra stress on the transom could result.

[bassfisher444]

Can't void the warranty unless they prove an aftermarket part caused the damage, that is the law. If you are that worried about it, if the transom ever cracks just take the jack plate and poles off before you take it in for repair.

[06 SB]

Weight is only a small portion of the equation. Moving the motor 2” farther back adds a longer fulcrum and you are moving that weight up and down. Adding dual power poles is adding even more weight. If you are dead set on continuing, I would just get the slidemaster and the poles. A hydraulic plate is nice but not required IMO.

[TheGreyFox]

Definitely understand the 2" further back, however the manual one from the Ranger factory sits 6" back as well. They (Ranger) market that one for dual power pole capability. Also on a manual you can move the motor up and down into the different positions (just not on the fly). Just doesn't make much sense unless on this model the transom thickness vs other brand of boats (And even thickness of other larger Ranger aluminum) is not as rigid? Thanks for the feedback