1991 Mariner 115hp

[DSM3]

Hi out there, I'm a new boat owner (and 1st time post'r) of a 22' Sisu Downeast with a 1991 Mariner 115hp. I've already taken her out for a few runs and engine seems to be in fine shape, but based on the some of the issues that have been raised in these forums, I have some questions about optimizing the boat's performance. Firstly, is it best for the engine to run at WOT (about 5250 rpm) or back off and save gas? Second, when starting up out of port, is it better to accelerate rapidly or ease up to WOT. Third, with this type of boat hull (semi-displacement), is it better to start with engine fully tilted down, and leave down, or up slightly, then tilt down, or down then tilt up.

Any tips would be appreciated, both for engine perfomance/maintenance, and boat handling.
Thanks

 

[pops]

Re: 1991 Mariner 115hp

DSM3, A couple of points. Running the engine wide open will obviously use more gas than crusing along at half throttle, it's just how much you want to pay for speed.
When you start up, you are not trying to get up on plane like a bass boat, so tilting the motor all the way down may be unnecessary. Let the boat tell you how it likes to get into cruising mode the quickest, and how it likes the motor trimmed for max. performance. Your tach and speedo will verify this.

Looks like you are the owner of a well maintained boat and motor.