---

Mounting height for the 16'7" hull and E-tec 90 combination has been discussed many times. I started at 2 holes up and ran with both the Viper 17" and the Stiletto 17". Then I went all the way up and tried both props again. The raised height and corresponding reduced drag has improved time to plane, reduced steering torque and effort, and has most likely improved speed and economy. I say 'most likely' because I broke 45 MPH last January but didn't raise the engine until this past summer. I saw the same top speed when raised all the way however it was 93 degrees instead of 75 degrees. I simply haven't been out alone to see if I can break 46 MPH during the cooler months, but it's likely.

It's my understanding that not all 20" midsections share the same vertical dimension between prop shaft and mount point. It's possible that the E-tec 20" leg is simply an inch or so longer than other manufacturers but I don't know. What I do know is that this engine runs best all the way up and, regardless of which propeller I use, they do not blow out in the turns.

As long as you drill the green hole pattern, you're as low as you'll ever need to be provided you run a modern prop design. Larry's recommendation to raise the top holes would effectively move the sweet spot down one set of holes which may provide more usable adjustability.

Larry, the wife and I launched in Deerfield Beach last week and cruised down to Houston's on Atlantic for lunch. We went past your place and saw the 25' on it's trailer backed up to the seawall. Let's make sure we get together this season.


Chris