Hydrasports 185 with Johnson 175 faststrike

[Jonboy2542]

I have checked with the local shops and no one has a prop to try.

I did change the high speed jets over. Before changing them over I soaked the carbs in chem dip as well before hand.

[pmgoffjr]

See if any service shops have a test tank and test props. Those are built to run WFO in a test tank, and if they are setup correct, you can instantly know if you're putting out or not. A dynometer will also work, just takes longer to setup and use.

[Jonboy2542]

I have tried a raker prop and it works a lot better than the renegade. My RPMs are up more now and so is speed. I keep hearing people say I need a jackplate. Which jackplate would work with this setup. I see a lot of brands, but not much on what people use with the hydrasports.

[Rip Bass]

As far as bolting up, any plate will fit,the bolt patterns are all the same. I would get a 6” set back manual plate. Look on the for sale pages on this site,you can usually find a deal.

[Jonboy2542]

Any particular brand I should go for or stay away from?

[pmgoffjr]

Rapid Jack is by far the best manual plate built. By far.

The worst plate EVER is a rite hite, if someone gives you one, turn it down.

[Jonboy2542]

That doesnt look good. From the picture it looks to be cheap metal

[pmgoffjr]

Rite Hite is just a terrible design. I broke four of them, they just stress themselves out and let go.
So, never ever use one.

[Jonboy2542]

What about Vance jackplates? I have heard a few people run them.

[Rip Bass]

I’m running my third Vance now on three different boats,no problems at all. They are solid and adjust as easy as any of them.

[Jonboy2542]

Do you use the performance plate on it? I see they offer a plate for it and just wondering if its worth it.

[Ranger391v]

Ditto Rip Bass's experiences with Vance jackplates. I've had them on a lot of aluminum boats, and hit some stuff hard enough to break the engines mounting brackets .... and it not phase the Vance.

My current duck boat below has a Vance Breakaway plate on it.

[pmgoffjr]

Lot's of choices, which means lots of opinions, thank goodness we live where choices abound.
I've never rigged a vance, I have no clue how they work. I have rigged 100+ rapid jacks, and not once have had any issue with one. Easier to adjust than the slidemaster design, and I know Steve stands firmly behind his work. And will be happy to discuss exactly what you need so it's a one time purchase.

[Jonboy2542]

Thanks for the opinions. Looks like I will be going with a Vance 6 inch. I am unsure on the performance plate? If it has any major benefits