I just got a 1996 209 Gambler with a 2000 Johnson 225 HO. It has a 10" jackplate, and a 26 Raker.

It runs 63.6 GPS at 5200 RPM. Elevation is about 1700 feet, at about 108 degrees temperature. (Yep, that's Arizona in July) That's with minimal gear, 3/4 fuel, and 2 guys in the boat. Eyeballing it, it seems the propshaft is about 4 to 4 1/2 inches below the pad.

A few impressions from my first ride in a Gambler:

At about 61 MPH, the boat lifts dramatically, followed by the bow rotating up like a Cessna on takeoff. At that point I expected a noticeable increase in speed, but there is only a gradual increase to about 63 MPH.

Left to itself, the boat chinewalks like crazy, but it's easy to learn how to control it after a few minutes of seat time. When lifting off the throttle at high speed, the boat shudders like a one ton dually on a washboard dirt road.

I'm thinking the motor needs to go up. Any input on where it needs to be would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
JohnK


Modified by JohnK3 at 1:33 PM 7/14/2010