first potter built seacraft

[pianewman]

Very nice boat. I've got temporary custody of a 73 20' with a t-top, 2008 150 OptiMax.
Prop is 15 1/2, 17p Mirage Plus.
Now that I have the engine at the "correct" ( acplate 1 1/2" above the keel), with modest load (40gal, 550lbs. humans) getting about 43mph (speedo, not GPS), at about 5400rpm. I trim the motor out a bit for max speed/rpm.

Just replaced the water pump as a precaution, as I've been told that this vintage (2008) Opti is susceptible to overheating...pump is low-volume, high pressure, and has since been upgraded in the newer models...but, you have to buy the newer motor, as the upgrade isn't applicable in the older motor.

Curiously, the first thing the Merc tech said when he saw the motor height was, "Motor looks too high...you might be sucking air...". I assured him that there were several on the CSC site that recommended this height, and would jump to my rescue if I cook the engine...HAH!

So...are you interested in a group buy for a splashwell to enclose your motorwell? I've been in touch with Don Herman (Hermco) and currently have 5 potential buyers. Check out the thread in the mods section...there's a great photo of what I'm talking about.

Good luck. That's a very clean boat you've got. I'm jealous!