looking at buying 183 cx

Hi, I am looking at a 183 cx with a 150 hp optimax, I would like some advice on set up, prop and heights etc, and what speed I could expect out of this rig? Thanks Track


Modified by trackka at 6:27 PM 4/12/2008

Hey, Track...welcome to the Champ forum!

That is one heck of a fine rig... I am hoping an owner will be here shortly with the info you need...

Wayne you know them boys from OZ will beat you up on the E-tec down there as it is all the rage with the speed skiers. http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/wink.gif http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/wink.gif . Glad to see our brand down under and welcome to the family. A 183 will run in the 50 MPH to low 60 MPH depending on motor and set up but figure a 50'S class boat. Cheers http://www.bassboatcentral.com/boardstuff2/beers.gif

Realistic tournament loaded speeds are in the 57-60mph range, but not much over 60. Terrific boat that will run all day long on a sip of fuel with the 150 optimax. In the 18ft class/price range my opinion is that you will be hard pressed to find a better rig.

That said... if I was buying new at this point I would seriously consider upgrading to the 175hp rated Elite package. The 150hp can feel heavy when loaded up and I think most people would be happier in the long run with the extra power in the 175XS powered 183.

Hope this is helpful and if the 150optimax is what you want then go for it...I love mine.

Dustin, would you be willing to post your set-up for trackka? He is looking for prop, engine height, etc... Thanks.... http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/smile.gif

Trackka,
My set up is as follows:

Turning a 23 tempest plus ( three large plugs)@ 5300 rpm's with 14psi @wot.

My engine height is 3 3/8" below pad.

I rate my holeshot as a 8 out of 10 (10 being the best of course).

Mostly run 59-60 mph wot with tournament loads but have got it up to 61.4mph gps lightly loaded. I typically don't haul a lot of stuff around in my boat like some guys do though, so some consider it always lightly loaded. I do have some chine walk when I am running it by myself but only on glass smooth water and I can steer through it with no problems. A good chop brings out the best in my Champ with no chine walk what so ever. The bow lift on my setup seems great. Some people that have ridden with me comment on how steady this boat feels when bow high. Overall the ride is a 10 out of 10. As with most people I would love some more speed though.

I'm not sure what speeds the 175 hp motors are getting but would love to hear from some owners who have em.

Thanks guys for your help, put a deposit on the boat today,it will be 12 to 14 weeks before i get the boat will let you know how it goes. Cheers Track

Congratulations!!!!!!!! I know you are going to enjoy that boat! http://www.bassboatcentral.com/boardstuff2/beers.gif http://www.bassboatcentral.com/boardstuff2/beers.gif
Can't wait to see pictures!!!

you got a great boat but dont be disapointed your boat will take at least 20 weeks or at least thats long it took me and my buddies