Bob'S Machine Outboard Motor Transom Pads/Support Plates
Bob's Machine Shop Transom Backing Plates: Machined Strength for Your Outboard
When it comes to protecting your boat's transom from the stresses of a mounted outboard motor, not all backing plates are created equal. Bob's Machine Shop has built a decades-long reputation as a performance marine hardware specialist, and their approach to outboard motor transom pads and support plates reflects the same exacting standards found across their entire product lineup.
Machined, Not Cast — A Critical Difference
The standout distinction of Bob's Machine Shop transom backing plates lies in how they're made. These are a fully machined product, manufactured from cold rolled plate — a process that produces a denser, stronger part than traditional cast alternatives. As the brand puts it, "unlike competitors that use a weak casting, our backing plates are made to last." For boaters running high-horsepower setups or jack plates, that material integrity matters enormously.
Designed for Standard BIA Bolt Patterns
Bob's Machine Shop transom backing plates are engineered to fit all standard BIA (Boating Industry Association) boat pattern motors, making them a versatile solution for a wide range of outboard applications. The kit includes both an upper and lower backing plate, with the upper plate measuring approximately 2-1/2" x 15-1/2" x 3/8" and the lower plate at 2-1/2" x 13" x 3/8". A double top bolt option is also available for additional clamping strength where the installation demands it.
The Ideal Companion for a Jack Plate Install
Bob's Machine Shop has been producing hydraulic jack plates since 1978, and their transom backing plates are designed with that context in mind. When a jack plate is installed, it shifts the engine rearward — increasing the mechanical leverage applied to the transom bolts with every wave and throttle input. Backing plates address this directly by spreading that load across a much larger surface area of the transom, rather than concentrating stress at just the bolt holes. For performance boaters and tournament anglers alike, this is a smart and often overlooked layer of protection.
Quality You Can See
Beyond function, Bob's Machine Shop backing plates are finished to a standard that looks right at home alongside their renowned jack plates and performance hardware. The machined surface gives them a clean, professional appearance whether installed facing inward or outward — a detail that boat builders, dealerships, and serious anglers tend to notice. Custom engraving is even available for bulk orders, making these a popular branded touch for fishing clubs and boat builders.
Whether you're upgrading an existing transom installation or reinforcing a new jack plate setup, Bob's Machine Shop transom backing plates deliver the precision-machined quality that performance boaters expect from one of the marine industry's most trusted names. Explore the full Bob's Machine Shop brand page or browse all outboard motor transom pads and support plates to find the right fit for your boat.
