1972 Starcraft SS 16ft need feedback

[dropout454]

Hey everyone. I'm somewhat new to boating and out of my league when it comes to repairing outboards. Just picked up a '72 SS with a '98 70hp Nissan ob. I love the look of these old Starcrafts!! Splashed it and everything is workin so far!! Couple quick questions I'd like help with....

-Engine runs well enough but how would I know if I need a tune up?? Any signs to look for? Is it worth the costs by the dealer (200)? Engine does not run good at idle speed?

Also, I got her up to 35mph at 3/4 throttle....rpms were about 4000.....does this seem about right?? It was just me and some gear in the boat....anybody think i got a shot at 50mph with a tuneup and new prop???

Thanks for any feedback!!

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: 1972 Starcraft SS 16ft need feedback

Welcome to iboats

Many starcraft fans here, these old aluminum boats are great and well worth restoring.

Your performance sounds great, check the manual for the desired WOT RPM range to see if she's running 100%. I'm not sure you will see 50mph but probably mid 40s with a light load, and trimmed properly.

Did you splash her in a river? Our lakes are still solid up here

 

[dropout454]

Re: 1972 Starcraft SS 16ft need feedback

Thanks for the response.....I put her in a cooling lake. Water temp was in the 60s.... Windy day with choppy water but handled well!!! I'll be rebuilding the deck and transom later on...thinking about a metal transom for great stability.