Flats Nation Podcast with Steve Pelini of BMS
In this episode of the Flats Nation Podcast, we sit down with Steve Pelini of Bob's Machine Shop (BMS), a longtime name in marine performance products, to discuss innovative equipment designed to improve the performance, handling, and functionality of today's flats skiffs, bay boats, and other outboard-powered vessels.
From hydraulic jack plates and marine accessories to one of my longtime personal favorites, the BMS True Tracker Stabilizer Plate, we explore products that can make a meaningful difference in how your boat performs on the water.
Having personally used BMS products for more than two decades, including the True Tracker since 2002, I can speak from firsthand experience about their practical advantages. And that's where we'll start!
BMS True Tracker Stabilizer Plate: Real-World Performance
I've personally tested and used the BMS True Tracker Stabilizer Plate since 2002, including on my own flats skiffs. Over those years, I've found several practical advantages that make this relatively simple upgrade worth considering:
Durable Metal Construction: Unlike plastic stabilizer plates that can flex under pressure, the True Tracker features rigid metal construction designed for long-term durability.
Compact, Efficient Design: Its smaller footprint avoids the oversized wing-like shape of some aftermarket stabilizer plates, providing useful performance benefits without unnecessary surface area and potential drag.
Improved Low-Speed Handling: One of the biggest advantages I've experienced is reduced bow wandering when operating at slow speeds through no-wake zones. The additional rudder-like surface helps maintain directional stability, even on skiffs equipped with hydraulic jack plates.
Better Hole Shot and Lower Planing Speeds: In my experience, the True Tracker helps the skiff get on plane quicker and maintain plane at slower speeds with less engine trim adjustment. Depending on your hull and setup, that can translate into improved handling, potential fuel savings, and better overall performance without investing hundreds of dollars in a different propeller.
For a relatively simple upgrade, the True Tracker has delivered enough practical benefits over the years to earn a permanent place near the top of my recommended skiff improvements.
The BMS True Tracker Stabilizer Plate is also available in several powder-coated finishes designed to complement your outboard's lower unit. These color options provide a more factory-matched appearance while retaining the same practical performance benefits.
After installing the True Tracker myself, I picked up a few practical tips that can make the installation process easier. These are the little things you might not find in the manufacturer's instructions!
BMS True Tracker Installation Tips
Remove the Propeller First: Taking the propeller off provides considerably more clearance when using a drill and makes the installation process easier.
Use Small C-Clamps: Keep a couple of small C-clamps handy to hold the True Tracker in position. Place protective material between the clamp jaws and the surfaces to avoid scratching the paint on either the plate or your outboard's lower unit.
Have a Short Phillips Screwdriver Available: A compact Phillips screwdriver makes reaching and tightening the mounting screws much easier in the limited working space.
An Extra Set of Hands Helps: While I managed to hold the plate in position and start the screws myself, installing the flat washers and lock washers proved considerably more challenging. Having someone assist makes the process much easier and helps keep everything properly aligned.
About Bob's Machine Shop (BMS)
Based in Tampa, Florida, Bob's Machine Shop manufactures marine performance equipment and accessories for outboard-powered boats, including hydraulic jack plates, stabilizer plates, and other specialized products.
For additional company information and technical support, visit the official Bob's Machine Shop website at Bobsmachine.com
One thing I've always appreciated about Bob's Machine Shop is the knowledgeable product support team and their willingness to help boat owners get the most from their equipment.
In this Flats Nation Podcast episode, Steve Pelini and I discuss the True Tracker Stabilizer Plate, BMS hydraulic jack plates, and other innovative marine products designed to improve your time on the water.
Listen our conversation below, or explore more episodes on the Flats Nation Media Page
Flats Nation Podcast with Steve Pelini of Bob's Machine Shop
Like many of our Flats Nation Podcasts, this episode is also available on our YouTube channel.
Listen to the full conversation with Steve Pelini below!
Have you used the BMS True Tracker Stabilizer Plate or other Bob's Machine Shop products on your skiff or boat? We'd enjoy hearing about your experience and how they've worked for you on the water! 😎
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Tight Lines, and God Bless!
Dave and the Team
