opinons on my setup please?

[ridgerunner6901]

2009 stratos 285 xl, merc optimax 150 6 inch jack plate, just added a tempest plus 25 p, moved up to it from a 23 p trophy plus. Changed due to over~reving and decreased performance. I ran the tempest at the same height I had the trophy and holeshot and top end were great but water pressure was only btween 11 and 12, so I lowered the jp 1/4" which now measures 4" below pad eaxctly. Water pressure went up to 13 to 14 which is plenty but lost 1.8 mph on top end, runs 60.t with full live well. Full gas tank and tackle with just me at 5600 rpm , still has good lift and hole shot but more chine noted at top speed. 4 inches seems low to me but what do I know. Should I just be satisfied or should I be wondering about trying plugs in the water intake and moving up the jp. Or water scoops? What y'all think?

[pmgoffjr]

Easy enough, just duct tape the top four holes on the intake and see what happens, if it's all good, then you can permanently shut them off.

[ridgerunner6901]

Now why didn't I think of that?

[ol man river]

wqhen is the last time you changed yor water pump / those models usually need 1 per year for peak performance

i would keep the wp a bit higher...more than 16 lbs

[ridgerunner6901]

never changed it.. engine has 41 hours on it...I wondered if it was trying to go myself