Stratos 282 Lithium Battery Help

[bassonwylie]

Not sure if I'm posting on the right board, but I'm looking for some assistance with setting up a 97 Stratos 282 with a 96 Johnson 150 Fast Strike.

A little bit about the boat and current set-up:
-Heavy items always been stored in back of boat.
-Motor has new electrical and fuel system replaced within last 8 months so no performance issues
-Does not have a jackplate
-When running at WOT, trim level was pretty much maxed out
-4 Blade 25p Renegade (used in every scenario)

Here's what's going on:
I found a great deal on some lithium batteries and decided to swap out my old lead acid batteries for the decreased weight and consistent power. It was a great upgrade, however performance has taken a massive hit. Lost 5mph with the swap and zero bow lift. I was running two group 27 lead acids which gave me top speed of 60-61 at 5500. Fastest this boat has gone was with two group 24 lead acid where it would hit 63-65 pretty consistently so I know this boat has got some speed to it. After researching the boards and comparing similar boats, it seems a 10" jackplate will help out greatly on performance but my biggest concern is still not getting enough bow lift. Is it worth while in looking into wedges to help angle the motor to where I can use more of the trim range or should I be looking to send my prop off to get worked on to achieve the greater boat lift and performance?

Any advice is greatly appreciated even if it's not stratos related.

[ThomasD]

Usually lowering the motor between 1/2 and 1" will get most of the lift and speed back but with no jackplate that can be problematic. Option B is to send your prop off to have some cup added.

[Jumping Jimmy]

I would add a 6 or 8 inch jack plate. Then you would be able to adjust motor height for optimum performance.