BRACKET OWNERS
Ok, Ive got some hours on the boat now and have a few questions for you.
I have a 1999 Johnson Ocean Pro 115
I cruise at around 4000 which gives me 22kts.
WOT at 5500 gives 27-28 kts with people, gear and bimini/full curtains.
The speed is fine for me. I fished three full days in the bay, moving from spot to spot, running a couple miles out and back etc and when I filled the tank it took only 17 gallons. That is more efficient then I expected.
If I trim up at all the motor cavitates very easily. If I make a sharp tun at higher speeds, the prop cavitates.
I was thinking of bolting on a hydrofoil, (I ordered one and then cancelled the order) but I cant help but think that I should drop the motor a notch or two to give the wheel a better bite?
I think the problem stems from the fact that I have a light 115 hp 4cyl engine v 6 cyl on the bracket. The heavier motor would weigh down the a$$ end of the boat a little more? (Incidentially, a heavier motor would help my scuppers drain a little better too)
My question is whether the hydrofoil will help the cavitaion problems. It does not cavitate constantly, just occcasionally. I am hamstrung with the trim control in all but flat conditions though. The hydrofoil would be the easy fix. To drop the motor would be a PIA at this point. I dont even know if there is any room to drop it on the motor and I would have to pull the boat etc.
How about I just fill the livewell with sandbags to make the stern heavier ;D ;D ;D
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