90etec ponton series

[csm]

Thanks largely to recommendations from many on-board, I finally pulled the trigger on the 90 pontoon series. The motor won't be installed for a few more weeks, and I can hardly wait to see how it performs. In a previous post I said, I had a spare 13x15 prop (on my current 70 hp Johnson) but it's actually 13x19. I'm thinking this is a good thing; the boat is probably 300-400# heavier than it was when I installed the 70, so I'm probably lugging it now. My tach is on the blink, so I'm not sure.
I plan to take a baseline with the 70, checking the top speed and time to get there so I can compare to the new motor. The dealer isn't familar with Macs, but suggested the hydrus prop, hasn't been such a big hit with the pontooners. What they gain in backing power gives up too much in top end.
There's a launch just down the road from his shop, and he suggested we can can try a few props to see what works best. I also plan to weigh the boat and trailer; I'll post the results. Thanks to all for your advice.

[bahama bound]

My etec 90 came with a really nice 14x17 stainless prop ...when I ran it it topped out at 4k @ 28mph boat loaded with stuff but no ballast .it also came with a 14x15 stock prop .I'm gonna try it this week .I almost wish I could keep the 17 .it had a great cruise range .it seemed like it was cruising between 21-23 MPH with little to no effort .....stunning how strong this motor is .it really is a different animal with the 90 .I believe it would top out well above 30.MPH with the right prop .all speeds are measured on Garmin GPS

[csm]

If your rpm is topping out at 4000 you're a bit overpitched. Hope the 14x15 performs well for you. Let us know.
Thanks

[vkmaynard]

Is the 90 fun or what?

Victor

[bahama bound]

Is the 90 fun or what?

Victor

Man .I used to have a sailboat that had a motor .now I have a motorboat that has sails ..I was not prepared for when I gave it throttle and it jumped up on plane ! It was a completely different boat ...you were right victor ! !!!

[vkmaynard]

Now you know what a real plane is on the X. About 21-22 mph.

How were the tuns at high throttle?

Contrary to what many believe the boats are very stable in high speed turns due the increased hydrodynamic pressure.

Victor

[bahama bound]

Now you know what a real plane is on the X. About 21-22 mph.

How were the tuns at high throttle?

Contrary to what many believe the boats are very stable in high speed turns due the increased hydrodynamic pressure.

Victor

I was shocked ....it handled just like a power boat ! You sure get some funny looks .its doing well on fuel but it will be a challenge to keep around hull speed ! We are on the way back to cumberland now .I'm really curious to see how it does with 15" prop .I feel like maybe I should try wedges to keep bow down but its no worse than the videos of you and Eric its really dry at cruise ....tickled to death with it .

[vkmaynard]

Wedges help. I put the engine all the way down then bump it up just a smidge.

Victor

[csm]

What are the options on wedges? Are they intended to increase pulling power from hole shot?

[bahama bound]

It has a great hole shot .. if they aren't holding on you can make all your passengers fall down when you give it gas .I think a little more weight up front will being the bow down enough