Mercury Out Board Operating RPM Range

[JimSr]

One last question. I have a 2003, 200XL SWB Mercury out board, what is a good operating RPM range to run at. The WOT is 5,000 to 5,5000 but I can't see running at this range all the time. I would like this motor to last. It's pushing a 22' ProLine walk 2003. My normal cruse RPM is between 3,600 to 3,800 RPM, is this ok. Also I do quite a bit of troling at idle speed, 750 rpm. am I doing harm to the motor.<br />thanks again<br /><br />jim

 

[DJ]

Re: Mercury Out Board Operating RPM Range

JimSr,<br /><br />You do not have to run the engine at WOT all the time. The point is to prop the engine so that it is capable of reaching its WOT operating range.<br /><br />Running the engine at less than WOT is recommended for best fuel efficiency and riding comfort.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Mercury Out Board Operating RPM Range

Jim - What I'm about to write may sound stupid but think about it. My advice is to pay attention to how the boat operates and what you see and hear and put the numbers aside. Your rig will tell you what it likes. My rig is somewhat simular to yours and when I first got it I ran it as you do. After a while I found that my rig liked to run at its best around 42-4400rpm. Where it runs best also depends on load and balence. If I have four adults on board and 600 pounds of fuel below the deck, my boat likes more rpm than with me solo and 180 lbs of fuel. <br /><br />Try it.<br /><br />Howard<br />Miami, Fl

 

[BW23]

Re: Mercury Out Board Operating RPM Range

Jim,<br /><br />FWIW, most OB's are most economical between 3800-4200 RPM. <br /><br />Dave