Now I know why I missed your thread. Title is a bit misleading. That bimini top is toast at 55, LOL. Nice V. Keep us posted.
The low water pick-up is to keep the water pressure up at extreme motor heights ( which you don't have) The nose cone installs on the lower unit they solve water flow issues.
http://www.bobsmachine.com/Products/cones.cfm
I have a 25 Tempest prop I don't use, but I think the Bravo 24 will outpace the Tempest. Where UB at UBHSTRY?