Chaparral Sunesta 236 with Merc 5.0 MPI underpowered?

[WJL24]

I'm shopping for used boat. Drove a 2004 Chaparral Sunesta with 5.0 Merc and it seemed underpowered. Is that to much boat for that engine with a standard Alpha One outdrive? Topped out around 37 with 5 people. boat is stored on a lift so the hull is clean. I slalom ski and the holeshot seemed like it was barely enough. Anyone have this boat with this motor?
Had standard 3 blade aluminum prop. Would 4 blade make much difference?

 

[Maclin]

As the potential buyer, then if it felt underpowered then it is. A 23 foot deck boat is on the cusp with the 5.0. Regarding skiing behind it, need to know what pitch the prop is that is on it now. Could probably just go with next smaller pitch. But for any prop recommendations would need to know the RPM's at the top speed it can reach, along with the pitch.

 

[superbenk]

I have a 5.0 in my 20’. Anything bigger would be too much for he 5.0 in my opinion.

 

[tpenfield]

Underpowered. 5.7 or 7.4 would be the thing to look for in a 23-24 foot boat.