Installing a jack plate

[JSU Fishing]

I plan to hang a jack plate myself because I've been told to expect to pay 100-200 to have it done. I am mechanically inclined somewhat and have access to all the tools I would need... Except the lifting ring. Does anyone know the thread size for a mercury 175 opti? Also does anyone have any advice before I tackle this project? Thanks

[GeauxTide]

If you're mechanically inclined, somewhat. Price, in the absence of value, is not a consideration. Although is seems a straight forward project, I'd rather spend a couple hundred to insure that I don't drop my motor into 60' of water.

[Jonestrollingmotor]

Here ya go: Mercury Force Outboard Lifting Ring Service Tool | eBay
Now the price is down to around $160.00 to have it done right with the right tools. How much is "piece of mind" and your time worth. BTW, when using the stainless steel bolts to bolt things up, they can seize, even with anti-seize. Then you get to cut them off (or break them since SS is brittle) and go, while the motor is swinging in the air, to hunt up new bolts.
Just an opinion from someone that does it. BTW, make sure the steering cables will reach before you start.
John

[Highcentered]

Make sure you have at least one other strong person to help you wrestle the motor. Outboard motors are the most awkwardly balanced things known to man. I've helped pull and mount several and had to do it to my own boat a couple times as well.

[Dan21XRS]

You can rent an engine hoist for less that $50, and the advice about another person spot on because once you start to tourque the bolt on the inside of the transom... I did mine in less than an hour... Dan

[e-tec]

I made one years ago. I will try to find it this weekend and measure it.

[JSU Fishing]

Thanks for the insight, guys! I'll look into buying one on eBay. I was expecting them to cost a lot more, unless it's a common thread size. And the engine hoist is a great idea. I didn't know it would be tall enough. I was planning on using a come-along chained to the trusses in my dads shop. Do I need to silicone between the plate and transom? I was planning to replace all the bolts as a precautionary measure as well.

[JJolley]

The thread size is 1 1/2"-16, I just bought one off of ebay for $42.00 and it arrived today, appears to be well made.

I also plan to install my jackplate myself to try and save the $180 I was quoted for a local shop to do it, plus they are 2 weeks out on scheduling.

I do have the advantage of having access to a torque wrench, an engine hoist and the help of one of our mechanics. I have no doubt all other cables will extend for the jackplate but the steering cables look like they may be iffy.

[dryhorn2]

Its not that bad of a job, rent a engine lift, get some stainless bolts,washers,locking nuts, silicone, torque wrench( tighten bolts to 80 foot lbs) and a buddy. Shouldn't take more than hour.

[jomo924]

a buddy is a must and use 3m 4200 plenty around the bolts thru transom

[TritonTRXV8]

I have done a couple of jack plates including my own and with the right tools its an easy job. I use a come a long attached to the cross beam of a car hoist and the merc lifting ring to raise and lower the motor. Works great. Its a 2 man job tho if you want it to be alot easier. The lifting ring is a must tho. I have always used grade 8 hardware and I never have to worry about gauling the threads or lubing the threads of the bolts. Use 3M 4200 silicone also.