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I have a 1972 13' Sport with the notched transom and small drain well. It has a 1994 Suzuki DT40 with a 20" shaft length. The repair manual for the Suzi says the ideal depth of the anti-cavitation plate should be 1.2-2.0" below the bottom of the hull. Mine is currently 2.5" below and it looks like I could slide the motor up about an inch with a spacer on the top of the transom without relocating the lower bolts because of the slots that the two lower bolts are fastened through.
Searching the site, the going wisdom for these boats seems to be: adjust the motor height with the plate at or just above the surface while planing. Should my motor's manual take precedence over this recommendation? I use the boat loaded with the weight of four adults in water that is often choppy up to white caps. It goes plenty fast as-is. I am most concerned about good handling and efficient operating. And I would rather not spend $$$ on a transom insert if I don't really need it or the performance gain is minimal.
I know the topic has been discussed many times but I am looking for input specific to this boat/motor combo. Much appreciate any input!
