1997 Ranger 518 svs slow

[bassmagnet831]

My boat seems to be slow compared to what other people say they run with this boat. Here’s what I have:

1997 Ranger 518 svs
1997 Mercury 200 efi
No jackplate
prop to pad: 4.5” (bolts are in the middle hole)
24 trophy plus - 6000-6100 rpm - 55-56 mph
25 tempest plus - 5700-5800 rpm - 61-62 mph

All runs are a normal load with 2 people (about 170 each). Boat has 3 batteries and no power poles. I know a jackplate would help 1-3 mph but this still seems slow. Just wondering if someone else has a similar setup is it all in the prop or does the motor need to be adjusted?

Thanks in advance, Luke

[blkfalc4]

4.5" P2P seems a bit low, try raising the motor a notch.

[bassmagnet831]

I thought the same but I haven’t been able to find what height anyone else is running without a jackplate

[Whiteboat]

Most Rangers run in the 3.25" to 3.5" range. That is where I would start. You should be running in the mid-60's with that boat tournament loaded with two guys if motor is not tired. This was not a popular boat.

I would try a 24" or a 25" Fury three blade if you get a chance

[bassmagnet831]

Alright, thanks

[KandKKustomz]

Get yourself a maunual 6 inch plate it will work wonders..

[Ranger391v]

Also, that's a small block 200 on that 19'er .......... it's going to give up a little (speed and holeshot) to those running big blocks on 518vx/519vx/198vx boats.

I had a 8" Slidemaster on my '01 518vx/200 Optimax (big block) and the PTP set at 3.25" below ....... spun a 25" Tempest Plus right at max RPM's and I cannot remember exact speeds but it was right at 68-70 depending on load and time of year.

Hope it helps.
-391v