Find a mechanic who can inspect and clean a STICKY choke section and or Accelerator Pump of your carburetor. 2001 is way over due for carb maintenance of it.
The metallic screen on the top of the engine has never become dirty enough to ever need a cleaning in 22 years. Top speed is still the same.
Best way to increase boat performance ? Find the prop that allows engine to reach maximum rpm with just you in the boat.
www.propgods.com was always my...
Pay a GOOD mechanic to go with you to check out any " great bargain ". The odds against finding a good one. 1 out of 50 thousand.
Do not buy used or dealer new. They have flooded new motors to sell also.
Life can be very cruel sometimes. Good luck to everyone.
Water MUST MUST be way above the Cavitation Plate. I would use 8 to 10" above it. Did you accidently trim the motor up too high ?
The impellor may be slightly worn if run long enough. You may have been sold the wrong impellor.
IF you do it correctly ? Then you will never have a marina part timer NOT DO IT CORRECTLY. And then say.......... WE did it right.
Been there.
I have never used antifreeze in anything I own. Except cars. I run carburetor dry and drain water. I do check all oils for getting some...
How run down the battery is. Really determines the RECHARGING current being supplied to it. Assuming all the electrical parts are in good condition. What type of chemistry is your battery ?