Jackplate / Prop ? For 150XP

[Hookerz Tackle]

Wanted to know how much effect lowering a jackplate has on the boat getting out of the hole? I have a Ranger 340V w/150XP Rude that currently has a 14 1/4 x 23 3 blade SS on it.
I have not gotten a chance to really run it, WOT, due to breaking in of rebuilt power. I just got back from 4 days on Erie and dropped the plate a good 3 inches below what where it already was at (around 3.5 or so). I did not have any problems on the first 2 days when it was just me w/wells empty. But I really noticed on days 3 and 4 with another person, their gear and wells full it would not plan over unless I had a wave pushing me (day2) or the guy would stand on the front deck (day2 different guys).
When I get up it is fine just getting there is the problem. I open it will run up to about 3000-3100 RPM and just stay there until it breaks over. I even tried moving some of my extra stuff up front to get more weight there. Not sure if I should start looking for a 21 3 blade or 23 4 blade? What about a 22 Raker?
The reason I drop it is because of the big waves and trying to keep it from breaking loose. Ran 12 miles in solid 3-5's on Saturday, but was pretty calm on Sunday. Thanks in advance!

John Terry
jterryiv@aol.com
Pro-Staff
Grandt Rods
Hookerz Tackle
Quantum Reels
Bill Harris Auto Dealerships

[Lockjaw]

I would raise it back up to where it was. The deeper the motor, the more drag it creates.

You might consider dropping to a 22 pitch raker but if you turned the same prop before the rebuild, you should have no trouble turning it now.