Motor height question

CHANCE1234 · #1 03-11-2013, 08:17 PM

I raise the transom 5 inches to 25". I have a 20 inch motor that I planned on getting a bay extension for. I mounted the engine today with out the extension. I used the top holes so the engine is as low as it will go on the transom. I know these boats like the cavitation plate to be about an inch above the lowest part of the keel, but how high above the keel is too much? Without the extension the cavitation plate right now is about 3-3.5 inches above the keel. I'm trying to save myself $600 on the extension but I think I know what you guys are gonna say. But I'm curious to see if anyone operates around this height. Could I get by this season or will I be blowing out at every turn? Thanks.

Blue_Heron · #2 03-11-2013, 08:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CHANCE1234

... Without the extension the cavitation plate right now is about 3-3.5 inches above the keel. I'm trying to save myself $600 on the extension... Could I get by this season or will I be blowing out at every turn? Thanks.

At 3-3.5" you'll probably be blowing out just getting on plane in a straight line. You can probably get away with 2". Or maybe you stick a cleaver prop on it and throw a big rooster tail.

Stauter99 · #3 03-11-2013, 09:08 PM

Definately gonna blow out at 3 inches. I think your best bet is the extension.

gofastsandman · #4 03-11-2013, 09:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blue_Heron

At 3-3.5" you'll probably be blowing out just getting on plane in a straight line. You can probably get away with 2". Or maybe you stick a cleaver prop on it and throw a big rooster tail.

Set up and balance is not just for breakfast anymore. Love my slacker with the light 2 smoker.
A/V plate 1 1/2 above the keel.

McGillicuddy · #5 03-11-2013, 09:27 PM

What motor are you running?

CHANCE1234 · #6 03-11-2013, 10:12 PM

1990 merc 115.

McGillicuddy · #7 03-11-2013, 11:33 PM

Chance, check your pm...

hugo · #8 03-13-2013, 05:18 PM

run it and see what happens! the worst is a wasted trip to the ramp. and just maybe your good.

CHANCE1234 · #9 03-13-2013, 06:32 PM

Hugo I don't think that's an option anymore. Turns out the cav plate is 4 inches above the keel when trimmed all the way down. Guess I gotta get that extension after all. Thanks all for the input.