bass boat setup

[samdog04]

hello forum, just got boat back from shop this week, tested it out yesterday and need some advice on setup. boat is a 1998 astro 1700dc with a 98 merc 115. the prop is a laser 2 with 22 pitch. the hole shot is terrible, and when up on plane the boat wants to bow hop pretty bad unless trim is way in. at wot only turning 4200 rpm, can trim out at 3600 and above,cavitation plate is level with bottom of hull,boat does carry considerable weight im 265lbs myself plus wife and gear. thinking i might need a 19 pitch prop, has anyone dealt with aftermarket discount marine parts ? seem to have reasonable price on props. i have a stingray hydrofoil but don't want to install until try prop, can't afford trim tabs .....prop will break me...any suggestions appreciated

 

[KCLOST]

Re: bass boat setup

Try ebay...<br /><br />You'll find many 19P props that will work for you at a reasonable price... Most used, but used doesn't mean a thing if not damaged.

 

[LubeDude]

Re: bass boat setup

Welcome Baitcaster48:<br /><br />Thanks for all the information also.<br /><br />I have set up many Bass Boats in my time. First off, you may even have to go all the way to a 17P to get your RPMs up, You need to at least be up to 5,500. also you need to raise your engine maybe as much as two holes on the transome.<br /><br />Lets see:<br /><br />First raise your engine.<br /><br />Forget the Hydrofoil. (Save your money for the Smart Tabs)I have them on my Bass Boat and they are awesome.<br /><br />Then change the prop. (Ebay is deffinatly the place to go)should be able to get what you want in the $200.00 range. Try a local marina, they will let you barrow props sometimes with a full deposit.<br /><br />Stick with us, we will have you up and running in no time.

 

[KCLOST]

Re: bass boat setup

You can figure on a 600rpm increase going to a 19 pitch, and a much better hole shot of course. Also if you raise the engine you will gain approx 100-150 rpms with each hole up you go...<br /><br />So you may gain 900 rpms with a 19p prop and a two hole up raise of the engine. At least get you above 5000... With the above changes, and if you get the porpoising fixed, this will allow you to trim out even more than your used to or have been safely capable of currently. Thus you will gain even more rpms... Maybe up as high as 5500+... (watch your water pressure when raising the engine) <br /><br />The porpoising correction is your biggest worry. You may get it taken care of with more rpms alone, as more rpms means more lift and power. But that's also depends a lot on your boat/loading/etc.<br /><br />Good luck and let us know...

 

[quantumleap]

Re: bass boat setup

Baitcaster- your recommended RPM range is 4750-5250. Your rpm's seem a little low even with the 22 pitch. I can run a 21p on my 97 125 (essentially the same motor) on a 19ft fish and ski which I'm sure weighs more than yours and still turn 5200 rpm's. Borrow a 19p and see what happens, but I bet it's more than the prop holding you back. Are you sure the tach is correct??