took mine 6 hrs. breakin time to LOOSEN up. If you'r going to run a TXP 4 blade you should be able to turn a 27 with no problem. When we run long distances we run a 30 Bravo and for just knock around or short distances we run a worked 27 Hydromotive 4 blade . we went back from 14" to 12" jackplate and got better hole shot and easier to drive. 1 1/2 - 1 3/4" above pad.