Force 85hp low top speed

Winstoper

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Jan 16, 2014
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I am new to this forum and I hope to get some answers, I have a 1984 bayliner trophy bass boat (that I just bought) with a 85 hp force motor, seems to me that the top speed is pretty low, I have checked spark, compression, timing and fuel and all seem to be working as they should. The top speed according to the boat is 25 and 31 on my gps. 31 seems a bit low. The rpm on the boat gauge says it's only getting to 3500. (Which is way low I think) The carbs are opening up all the way. The prop is a Chrysler stainless steel part # a511265. Does anybody have any suggestion? 31 seems way low and it's just me in the boat.
 

pnwboat

Rear Admiral
Joined
Oct 8, 2007
Messages
4,251
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

According to what I see out on the internet, that propeller is a 21 pitch. Too much pitch for that 85HP motor. Typically a 19 or 17 pitch prop would be the most you would want to use. You should see around 5000-5500 RPMs at WOT with the correct prop.
 

Frank Acampora

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 19, 2007
Messages
12,004
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

With a 21 pitch prop, you are lugging the engine and yes, top speed will suffer. However don't expect miracles with a prop change: You MIGHT get high 30s but I think 40 would be out of the question.

And please post your location. Some one near you may have a decent prop and be willing to trade--but, of course, offer a trade in a private message to comply with forum rules.
 

Winstoper

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Jan 16, 2014
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Re: Force 85hp low top speed

I Agree with the 21 prop I was hoping to get a little reassurance from somebody before I went and spent the money on a new one. Thanks guys
 

jerryjerry05

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May 7, 2008
Messages
18,071
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

You have the 16ft? I rigged a lot of these.
It will go over 40 if it's set up right.
You have the power tilt?It will help with top end.
Not having it will slow you down some but still push at 40
Pics of the boat? Too much load?
Look around you can find a prop to test so you don't waste a lot of $
Make sure the linkage is advancing all the way too.
The plastic connectors could be cracked and not working right.
Make sure the trigger is advancing all the way too.
 

MickLovin

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Feb 18, 2013
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822
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

Ok I just read this post and Winstoper has the same prop as I had on my 75hp A511265 Chrysler which ran my chrysler 75hp fine but I didnt expect more than 40MPH, at 5000rpm+, I have a 17ft carribeanIMG_1290.jpg and the next photo is my 100hp but I dont have a prop photo IMG_1510.jpg
 

Frank Acampora

Supreme Mariner
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Jan 19, 2007
Messages
12,004
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

Before you go buying a new prop, look on ebay under Force/Chrysler propellers. There are a couple of decent ones there for about half the price of a new one. Don't be worried: Your circa 1984 Force can use Force props OR late (1980 or later) Chrysler props. Closed hub or thru-hub exhaust makes no difference in performance.
 

jkust

Rear Admiral
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Aug 2, 2008
Messages
4,942
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

We've got an 85 HP on an 84 Bayliner but it is the 16 foot capri and weighs #1005 lbs dry so ultra light build. We run 17 and 19" props and get low 40's loaded up and get there instantly. No tachometer so no clue where the rpm's are. Many years ago we bought a dozen props at a marina going under but the lake the boat resides on is so deep, the props have never touched ground so never needed to use all the extras.
 

Winstoper

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Jan 16, 2014
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Re: Force 85hp low top speed

I don't have any pics of the boat, but it is a 17ft trophy bass boat, visually it looks like advance is opening all the way. I really am leaning toward the prop. If I find a good deal on one I will try it out and post back my results. Thanks guys
 

Winstoper

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Jan 16, 2014
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Re: Force 85hp low top speed

Well got the 17 pitch prop put on and took it to the lake today, I am getting 41 mph. Just what I was looking for. Thanks for the help.
 

pnwboat

Rear Admiral
Joined
Oct 8, 2007
Messages
4,251
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

Glad it worked out for you and thanks for the update.
 

MickLovin

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Feb 18, 2013
Messages
822
Re: Force 85hp low top speed

I am surprised that yo have gained 10 MPH for changing to a 17 from a 21, wonder if it is worth me trying a 17.
 
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