[sterlib1971]

I just bought an '03 SX 8 / 3.0 Mercruiser. Anyone with same / similar boat have any problems pulling a skier? Any tips for performance increase?

[ShabahZ280]

Congrats! A lot of people find some benefit from adding "Smart Tabs". Do a search here, and read all up on them!

Don't worry about the performance. A 3.0L is no speed demon, but it'll keep you on the water enjoying yourself, and definitely keep your wallet a bit more full than most of ours! The best thing to do is get out there and try it yourself. If you've got a ton of people onboard, and try to pull a skier, it might be a little sluggish. Just be conscious of your loaded weight, and take that into effect when trying to do watersports! There's no question it'll pull a skier, tube, wakeboard, etc. It's just not a fire-breathing powerhouse. There's really not a lot of performance modifications you can do to small engines, pretty much the only things are for the V8's. I say just enjoy what you've got!!

[sterlib1971]

Thanks! I really appreciate the info. She does pretty well. I can usually get her between 42-44 mph with good conditions. Again, thanks!

[DFZ272]

If you cant get the pulling performance you want when pulling a skier/toy you may want to consider buying another prop of a different pitch to install when you are going to be doing a lot of pulling at lower speeds. It is kind of like using a lower gear in your car. Your top speed will be lower but you will get out of the hole and on plane quicker. If you do that just make sure you are not over revving your engine. Single props are pretty easy to swap out depending on the performance you need. Just make sure u swap them on land not in the water. Nothing worse that losing a prop or prop nut by dropping it in the water. A good prop shop should be able to help with recommendations.
Happy Boating
Dan

[dennyg]

Check your prop pitch. It will be stamped on the prop. Most have a 23 pitched prop as mine did when new! Changed to a 19 and it is quicker out of "hole". less top end speed though. Run premium fuel too.

[sterlib1971]

Thanks. Did you you go w/a stainless steel when you changed props? Three blade / four blade?

[dennyg]

Go with aluminum 3 blade prop!!!! Can"t emphasis enough that you "do not" want a steel prop!! It will destroy your lower end (outdrive). Believe me you never know what floats just under water surface. I hit floating log a foot underwater and thank god my aluminum prop and composite sleeve gave way first! Cost 120.00 for new prop as opposed to a grand at least for wrecked lower end. Treat your Mariah right and it will be good to you!!! Dennyg