Shaft length

[68whaler]

I had always assumed that the original '67 Rude 40 that came with my boat was a short stem but now I am not so sure. The original factory repair manual identifies the 40773 as "5" longer than standard. The cavitation plate runs about 2 1/2" below the lowest point of the center V on my 68 13'. She goes like a bat out of hell, turns on a dime and I couldn't possibly ask for better performance. Should I be considering raising the motor or "if it aint broke, dont fix it"?

 

[mrbell83]

Re: Shaft length

Have you had any problems?? From your description it sounds like everytyhing is perfect, I wouldn't mess with it, but thats jusy me.

 

[68whaler]

Re: Shaft length

Problems, heavens no! Performance is absolutely awesome. I do however mostly boat the susquehanna river in PA; at times a shallower draft would be a big plus even though I have always been cautious enough never to bottom out.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Shaft length

JB is the whaler guru. normally the cav plate should be about even with the bottom of the v. i think this would require a jack plate. probably not worth the money. hopefully, JB will be along.

 

[JB]

Re: Shaft length

JB answered this post in the Boston Whaler forum.

 

[68whaler]

Re: Shaft length

I think I am going to just leave her alone JB. The turning couldn't possibly be better (almost need a seat belt to stay in the boat) and she blows off all similarly powered competition. There is a certain pleasure in having someone in a brand new boat turning their noses up at the "antique" only to be left in my wake.