Rpm range

[18outrage]

I have a 1988 Yamaha 130 hp on a 18 ft. Boston Whaler Outrage that runs great. It is a northern freshwater boat. Since I have no owners manual I was wondering what the rpm range should be. The 21 pitch Yamaha prop barely allows the engine to hit 5000 rpm. I think this is at least 500 rpm low. What do you all think?

Thanks

[18outrage]

anybody care to chime in?

[robert graham]

RPM's should max out about 5500....have you tried trimming up the motor to gain that extra 500RPM's?.....I have a 90HP Yamaha on my 18 foot Jon boat and I really have to trim it up to get that 5500RPM's....I rarely run Wide open throttle so I don't worry about it.....your boat/motor rig is probably OK like it is, especially if it has been running fine like it is for several years.....

[18outrage]

Thanks for the reply, Robert. I didn't think the engine was lugging but was a little sluggish pulling a tube. Since I did not have a spare prop I wanted to go down to a 19 pitch. I think it will be o.k.

[exeter27]

I tend to have a lower pitched prop when pulling skiers and the like. I'd suggest trying a prop 2" less pitch as you've mentioned.