Motor height question

[CHANCE1234]

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.