Boat only planes out after shifting weight forward?

[jackmorgan]

Those sound correct. 42 at 4300 does not sound correct. I think your RPMs are higher than you think they are. Check with a shop tach.

What boat is Boattest running? Hopefully, a FourWinns Vista.

At this point, you just need to move weight around and correctly use your trim tabs. Your props are in perfect condition hopefully.

Oh, tach is fine in neutral so i don't think that's it. It revs to 4800 - would likely go above but don't want to blow up my engine!

 

[frantically relaxing]

What shape are the props in? Have you spun them to visually check that all blades are running in the same plane? If a blade is tweaked it might create drag, cavitation or ventilation.

Have you checked the lube in the outdrive? I say this because, a few weeks ago I ran into the new owners of our 2003 Chap 260ssi. (sold thru a broker). I asked them how they liked it--

Love it, but, it seems a little slow...

Umm, I was getting near 50 most times at WOT--

Best I've got so far is 41...

What?

And as we got closer to the back of the boat, it became clear why he was only getting 41 mph... The outdrive was covered in mayonnaise. The boat shop changed the outdrive oil, and the dipstick was missing... we got 5 seasons of nearly flawless use out of her, and a boat shop fubars the drive with one stupid mistake. ..ouch. One more reason I do my own repairs and maintenance...