82 Galaxy 180 merc 120

[todster]

Are there any downloadable manuals for the motor? I have the one for the drive.
I just bought this boat and started fixing it up. Transom seems sound but how does one really tell it is rotted?
Currently the boat has a 19P prop on it and getting on plane with 2 people is quick. The tach goes to 4k+ quite easy. Would it be better to go with a 21 or 23 for starters. At 4000rpm goosing the throttle is almost instant and I don't really like going past 4500 but it is no problem with this prop. Next year, it will be pulling a tube but I think the 19 will still be too small.
What kind of mph should I expect from this boat and drive combo?

 

[kartracer]

Re: 82 Galaxy 180 merc 120

I have a 83 Galaxy with a 120 I would stick with the 19.If your engine is in good condition and tuned up you should see 35 to 40 mph.I ran a 21 for a short time with only 2 of us in the boat we could hit 45 on smooth water but hole shot really suffered and any more than 2 persons was not good. I run a 17 now to have good hole shot for tubing and skis just have to watch the rpms.

 

[todster]

Re: 82 Galaxy 180 merc 120

Supposedly the guy I got it from said he rebuilt the motor, but pulling the pcv while it's running, I have smoke coming out so guessing it must be a poor mans rebuild as blow by seems to much for something with not a lot of time on it. that or these maybe were noted for blowby?
It's no problem to hit plane with the 19 and there's lots of throttle left over.
Big difference from my 1400 bayliner capri. Of course that little Johnson 50 is turning a 14x15 and a 17 when emptywhich is why I was questining the 19 on this. How does one tell if the transom is rotted?