more power from classic 50?

[huntxtrm]

I have a 85 bass tracker tourny series. 17', 45 hp classic 50 merc. I run 26 mph gps top end, takes months to get up on plane. Sounds to be running 5000 rpm or around on top end. motor runs good.. I think the boat is underpowered. rated for up to 80 hp. can a classic 50 be "Souped" to run better? or do i just need to get another motor, higher hp? any ideas?

 

[DuckOfDeath]

Re: more power from classic 50?

I have the '88 17' Pro V with the 4-cylinder Classic 50. I had similar results to yours running with a 13p aluminum prop that was all dinged up. I went to a SS prop in good condition and now it hits 5600 RPM at top end. It also gets up on plane much faster. You have power tilt/trim?

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: more power from classic 50?

"Sounds" like 5000 rpm can be much different from actual revs. Get it tached out and go from there. A 17-footer is a fairly large boat for one of those old Mercs so propping it correctly is critical... You would ideally like it to be peaking around 5500 RPM...

 

[huntxtrm]

Re: more power from classic 50?

It is a semi v bottom. the prop is beaten up a little. 11x 14 aluminum. maybe go to 13 pitch stainless? Willing to buy a new prop, just want to buy the right pitch. I don't want to wind up stuck with a new prop and same or worse issues. Or should i just install a tach first, to find out rpms at wot for sure. and go from there?

 

[verado7]

Re: more power from classic 50?

each drop in pitch will increase rpm by 200 so you can figure from that - personally iw ould go 11 or 12 - dont forget to factor in the load. ss is the way to go .

 

[huntxtrm]

Re: more power from classic 50?

Thanks fellas, I will be installing a tach this weekend and going from there.