boat wont get on plane

[beefey]

i have a 45 hp merc just tuned up runs perfect but it wont come on plane unless my buddy stands in the front for a few seconds once on plane its fine it has a stock prop on it not sure what it is would a different prop fix it i have the motor trimmed all the down

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: boat wont get on plane

I assume you don't have power trim on a 45 hp. Is this motor setup in one of the higher settings? Can you adjust the motor down--closer to the transom? When you say your friend has to stand in front, is the engine cavitating (grabbing air) before the prop catches water?

You didn't say what kind of boat you have. Can you please give us a few more details?

My friend had a 13' Allisoncraft in the late 70's with a 100 hp Mercury short shaft. It was setup for top end (65 mph), and didn't have power trim. We'd have to climb up on the front deck to get it to quit cavitating. When the engine caught, we'd have to get back in the cockpit fast--because the boat accelerated like mad. At a full throttle, it'd just skip across the water. Although it was exciting, it was a pretty miserable ride.

 

[JB]

Re: boat wont get on plane

There are a lot of things that can be "wrong". Most likely is lack of power trim. That doesn't allow you to pull the foot in to lift the stern.

You might have a not-perfect prop, badly balanced load, etc, etc.

My suggestion is a hydrofoil and re-rigging the outboard.

 

[aussieflash]

Re: boat wont get on plane

Is this a new problem?If you just bought it check outboard is set up correctly and prop is at correct level.Also Try trimming out.My bow gets up a bit then levels out on plane.

 

[gsmith3286]

Re: boat wont get on plane

I would also check the bilge area and make sure your not carrying a ton of water. I had a broken bilge pump my last fishing trip and it was raining hard...after several hours, my boat struggled to get on plane.

 

[beefey]

Re: boat wont get on plane

i just bought the boat it is a 16' foot cajan bassboat it has a 14 pitch prop on it. the boat doesnt leak or anything thing and it didnt have any water in it the last time out. waht is a hydrofoil?

 

[La Bullet]

Re: boat wont get on plane

Here you go, I just recently upgraded to SS prop and skeg guard too. The fins came with the boat when I got it and planes very well, but I have not taken it off to see the difference.
My Dos Centavos, Ed
1997 Mecury 90