This was something I too considered on my Tsunami build and moved my 140 gal fuel tank foward to help compensate for the bracket and big motor. No doubt doing so played a part in the overall performance gains achieved.
The wild card of compromise has certainly been with the bracket though, Transition to plane has definitely been hindered as there is a speed "hump" that has to be achieved for the bracket to clear the water surface before she gets up. It seems to be more related to hydrodynamics than CG as once it clears the bow is glued to the water. I'm still experimenting with props and motor height. I think going to a 4 blade and raising the motor up a couple of holes will help smooth the planing hump out significantly and ease the transition. It's hard to believe how high you can mount the motor with the Hermco bracket and I am definitely running too deep.
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[b]The Moose is Loose !
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