Trim Problem? Or Prop Problem?

Joined
Apr 2, 2009
Messages
6
I have a 1988 Stratos 181 pro v bass boat that I just recently restored. It has a 1976 JOHNSON 135 V-4 on it. A hi-jacker 5'' jack plate, and a stainless steel prop which i cannot find the pitch number on it. The motor is turning 4700 @ W.O.T. I believe this motor should turn 5500. It's running around lower 40's, and i just can't get any lift. the motor is not trimming up as far as i think it should under power. does anyone have any suggestions on this issue. The water breaks just in front of the console. I believe if it would trim on up, and i could get the rest of the boat out of the water, the rpm's may be where they need to be.
thanks for any replies.
 

steelespike

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Apr 26, 2002
Messages
19,069
Re: Trim Problem? Or Prop Problem?

Yes if there is more trim it may help.Have a look under the prop nut for number.Or have a prop shop measure.
Have you tried raising the motor.Get it set just before venting becomes a problem.Just be sure it pumps water.There are props that give bow lift
We'll have wait for the experts to chime in for details.
 
Joined
Apr 2, 2009
Messages
6
Re: Trim Problem? Or Prop Problem?

Hey,
Thanks for the reply. Raising the motor is my next step. I just have to be real careful because that year johnson motor does not have a tale tele. (OR PEE HOLE). I looked for any adjustments on the motor and trim bracket yesterday. One other thing that could be happening is that motor trims up slow untill it gets to the trailering mode. It could be getting to that point while running, and just won't go up any farther in the faster speed. I will raise it some before i run it this weekend. The cavitation plate is 1 1/4'' above the bottom of the boat now. So I may be able to get a little more out of it that way.
The more suggestions, the better...
 
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