[OTTERLY COOL]

HI TOAD

I had a 1975 18 and powered with a johnson 115. That boat was probably a bit heavier than yours and did well with the 115 - a bit over 40 mph actually timed. I was able to fish in the back with anothe person and the scuppers just started to pick up water - by myself they weren't close.

I sold the boat and the guy went out and put a 200 on it and had the same problem you have.

By the way - if the specs on yours are the same as they were on mine, she's only rated for 140 anyway - and I'm positive about that. Mine was an "original" - it was actually built when Bill Potter was still around. I spoke to the factory people at the time and they actually recommended a 115 for optimum performance and safety.

If I remember correctly, the 115 was around 350 lbs. I would recommend that you look for power in that size and weight range. Unless you just want to race, I'm sure you'll will be happy.