"Need Help" 1997 Skeeter ZX200 w/ 200hp Mariner

[Sotestar]

I just bought this 1997 ZX200 but have been having problems with the rpms on the hole shot. After getting it up to about 3000rpm the rpms often jump very high over 6k but i let off immediately. I have the engine all the way down on the plate and tilted all the way down as well. Checked the prop and it is definitely not spun. Thought I was having cavitation problems but Its as far as it can go in the water. After trying several times it gets up to speed just fine but sluggish on the hole plus I have to watch it to make sure it doesn't spike. When I am able to get it wide open it runs about 45-50 @ 5200-5400rpm. It has a 17" SS prop. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Also this last time on the lake I got it started right off the trailer then cut it off after idling for about 5 minutes. I tried to start it back up and it almost sounded flooded, I cranked it several times w/ the fuel off to clear the cylinders but was never able to get it started after an hour. Got home and it started right up of course. Can a 200hp EFI flood? Any help on this problem as well?
Since I just bought it, any suggestions on what to changed besides plugs and filter as safe measures.

Thanks,
Scott

 

[Sotestar]

Re: One more thing

Re: One more thing

The guy who owned this boat prior hadn't used it for a year because he went blind, I am thinking of taking it to a shop but what should I have them look at and change other than the plugs, filter and all the fluids I have already replaced. ie. fuel bulb, check valves and bleed system?

 

[jconrad]

Re: "Need Help" 1997 Skeeter ZX200 w/ 200hp Mariner

Re: "Need Help" 1997 Skeeter ZX200 w/ 200hp Mariner

what pitch prop is it? should be 23, 24 25 or so.

 

[CharlieB]

Re: "Need Help" 1997 Skeeter ZX200 w/ 200hp Mariner

Re: "Need Help" 1997 Skeeter ZX200 w/ 200hp Mariner

Does the SS prop have 'holes' behind the leading edge of the blades?

These are a measured exhaust leak designed to allow an amount of cavitation on take off to allow engine RPM to very quickly get high into its peak.

The boat should rapidly climb up out of the water, as it noses over the water flow 'seals' off the holes, the blades get a better 'grip' on the water, RPM drops almost as if you 'shifted' gears, the boat accelerates to speed.

If you are having any throttle bog coming off an idle the first thing to check is for old fuel, then filters.