I have 1999 225 mercury optimax. The hole shot is incredible with one person, but just as soon as a another person gets in the boat it takes forever to get on plane. The motor sounds like it doesn't have enough power. When it starts to get out of the hole you can hear the engine getting stronger then its gone. I run a 26p fury prop. Could it be the prop or the jackplate setup. Or something else. Thanks for any input.
Let's start with what boat the motor/prop is mounted on? Then we can possibly go from there? Is the boat/motor combo maxed out at the HP rating and is the problem only recent? Could be a simple solution as only changing the plugs, but if the maintenance history is unknown, then we can only speculate. I do not own that particular motor, but I am sure that someone else on this board can help with a little more information. Just trying to help you out.
+1.... would help to know some maintenance history, how long have you owned, is this a NEW problem (or something you've battled since you owned it), etc.?
Also.... is the IDLE RELIEF PORT at the back of the engine ABOVE the surface of the water as you're trying to start off? On some setups (especially when more weight is added), it's necessary to start accelerating at LEVEL trim (not fully tucked), and then run the trim DOWN as the bow begins to rise. This helps to keep the idle relief ports above the water surface, allowing the engine to breathe so it can spool up RPM's enough to clear water from the exhaust.
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My boat is blazer 210 pro-v. I have had this boat for about 4 years. I had a the mechanic look at this several times for this problem, but he has never seemed to figure it out why it does it. We have changed plug and wires and coils. I even put a new fuel pump on. The question you were asking about the port releif. Im thinking it is in the water when the motor is tucked. What your talking about makes since because it seems like it starves for air when taking off.
It might just be prop venting. With a heavier load, many times props need for venting to spool up. Try opening up the vent holes. If they are the PVC type, wither get the ones with teh next size up, or drill them larger. Or you can just knock one out to see if it helps.
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