Re: Prop Question for all of you
I rigged a 12' aluminum for my Dad with 1968 7.5 merc crankshaft rated, and it was really tough to plane! I solved the problem by putting a triangle shaped gas tank (Overtons) in the bow. I also set the trim all the way in and used some wedges to give it a little extra negative trim (used plastic wood splitting wedges) I also raised the motor as high as possible without cavitation (bracket was about 1" above the top of transom) since it was such a borderline situation I used all of the tricks I know. The weight transfer made the largest difference.<br /><br />Which makes me wonder how much extra weight was added with the Honda? If I had to do it all over again I beleive the best alternative would be a "stingray" hydrofoil added to the cavitation plate. They did not have a small version back then but now they do, (Overtons). This way you can keep the weight near the rear of the boat and still easily get on plane, which IMHO is the best of both worlds.<br /><br />I also noticed that there is afterplanes available (Overtons) for small boats that are self adjusting, all the way down for trolling and then they flatten out as the boat planes. Cost is approx 150.00 but seems like a interesting alternative.<br /><br />As far as propeller alternatives, I would think a smaller pitch would be helpful, and just might be enough to push it over the hill. Good Luck Hitman (no, I do not work for Overtons! lol)
