need more power?

[JCSkeeter313]

i got an '89 mariner 175 V6 serial #oc185372. its strapped on an 89 skeeter 18'6" dual console...so im pushing around a little bit of weight. with 2 guys full livewells and half tank of gas, it is really a dog out of the hole. i have a 4 blade ss prop, i think it is like a 22 pitch but im not 100% sure. my question...is there something i can do as far as any changes or modifications that will help or solve my problem. i am also running a stingray stabilizer/fin thing. that helped a little but i liked to get more if possible. thanks for any replies.

 

[JB]

Re: need more power?

What rpm are you getting at WOT, JCS? You may be overpropped.

 

[JCSkeeter313]

Re: need more power?

i run around 4900-5000? i wondering if i can get away with a different prop. maybe a 3 blade...get more rpm out of the whole? not sure. cant exactly just start buying new 400 dollar props.

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: need more power?

As JB suggested you are overpropped. Should be running 5500-5600 WOT for that motor. Sounds like a 19" pitch prop should put you right around where you need to be. Check with local dealers/marinas and see if they will let you try before you buy. Many will.

 

[MGuckin]

Re: need more power?

Where is the plate (stingray) at WOT? Should be above the water or it will creat excessive drag. Where is the plate mounted in relationship to the botom of the hull, above, even, where? Have you tried increasing motor height, (x factor)? Are you sure motor is timed correctly? Why not get what you got working as good as possible before buying more parts. Need to establish a maximum rpm baseline with existing equipment. I do suspect that a 22 might be too much as JB said, but we got to start somewhere. Don't give up on that 4 blade if this pitch works. Much better for top end. More wetted surface. There are ways to make em spin quicker.

 

[dtherrien]

Re: need more power?

Yes JC....try working with what you have...I run a 25 pitch 4 blade on my 18' ranger with a 96 150hp.I run 5400 5600 rpm with 2 people and full gear...about 60+ mph.

 

[JCSkeeter313]

Re: need more power?

the stingray is mounted right on top of the cavitation plate and when wot it is ot of the water. i do have a jackplate but i wouldn't know where to start when it comes to adjusting that. any suggestions? The cavitation plate should be even with the bottom of the hull right? Is there an easy way to check the timing with out any special tools? also DT what brand of prop are you running and do you get out of the hole pretty good? thanks for all the replys guys.

 

[MGuckin]

Re: need more power?

When using a jack plate the plate will almost never being even with the bottom. The set back will effectively put the motor lower creating more drag.<br />Raise it up a little at a time than test for handling and performance. First test I would raise it about 1" or so, maybe 2".<br />The object is to get the motor as high as you can without losing cooling capabilities, ride comfort and handling.<br />If you get it to the point where it is not easily controlled, drop it down a bit.<br />Just by lifting the motor higher you will gain rpm and get up in the power band quicker. Less drag.<br />Look for 5800 RPM @ WOT. If it over revs a little it is ok.

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: need more power?

If hole shot is the main objective, you could also try venting the prop. Faster spin-up at takeoff with no affect on top end. Works for many.

 

[MGuckin]

Re: need more power?

Rodc,<br />Agreed but we should get this set up right first. Venting is great for quick spin up but will not affect the wot rpm only how quick you may get there.

 

[dtherrien]

Re: need more power?

JC.....a couple questions.....on take off are you trimed all the way down completly? You must be trimmed completly in to come out of the hole or that front end will stay up for a while. Also how long have you owned your boat?...Did you put the hydro fin on?....you shouldnt really need it for that boat.<br />My prop is that 4 blade trophy(merc made)25 pitch.I can shoot out of the hole easily with 2 adults and 3 kids on board.Your boat with a 175 on a 18.5 boat should perform similar to mine.

 

[JCSkeeter313]

Re: need more power?

just was out the other day and i ran at 5100 at about 54 mph fully loaded. i feel like the motor can do more? what now?