98’ Nitro 700LX w/ Honda 75hp Set up help.

[Taco401]

Hey guys, picked up a Nitro 700LX with a Honda 75hp. Any advice on set up. My Rpm are 5000 at WOT. Slow to get in plane. It has a 13 1/2 x 17 prop but what concerns me is the prop shaft is about 10” below the pads. Boat will list hard to the left getting and on plane. Is this motor messing with or should I just go with a 115 stroke? Any advice will help. This motor is a heavy tank. Got the boat for good price and hull is like new.

[pmgoffjr]

Lot of boat for a 75.
It needs to be turning 6,000 at WFO so you’re looking at dropping 4-5 inches of prop pitch.
But a 115 would be better.

[Taco401]

I know Goff but I can’t find that low of a pitch. I think I’m fighting a loosing battle with this motor lol!!

[pmgoffjr]

Call powertech, they make it.

[06 SB]

That thing is a unicorn. You will not find much, if any info on that combo. Get the motor height correct by moving the motor up or getting a jackplate. It almost sounds like a 25” shaft motor. Personally, I would sell the motor and buy one at least 115HP. 75 is not enough for that boat.

[Jake T]

I had a 700lx with a Merc 90 many moons ago. Very quick little boat. Good hole shot and would hit 5w mph or so.
It did list to one side tho till it got up on pad. I remember different props and motor heights couldn't solve it. Wasn't a huge deal tho. With that sweet 75 Honda you ain't gonna win many races but who cares, enjoy.

[Taco401]

Thanks guys! I found an 08’ rebuilt Opti 115 that I’m considering have put on. Any thoughts on the OptiMax motors. My last few boats always had Johnsons.

[plki]

The 1.5 liter Opti's are very reliable, my 05 1.5 opti has 2600+ hours by smartcraft monitor.
Fires right up every weekend without a hitch

[pmgoffjr]

Depends on who "rebuilt" it.
If it's from blackbird, run away. Fast.

[06 SB]

Depends on who "rebuilt" it.
If it's from blackbird, run away. Fast.

True statement. Blackbird changes their name occasionally but any company in West Sunbury, PA will be Blackbird.

[Taco401]

Not Blackbird for sure. The motor was rebuilt by a shop in New Hampshire.

[drscholl14]

I also have the 98 700LX single console. Bought it four years ago and is my first boat. Absolutely gem for a first boat. However I have a Merc 125 on mine. I think you are going to be unhappy with the performance the 75hp will get you unfortunately.