182 performance question
 

We just purchased a 2000 Mariah 182 with a mercruiser 4.3 alpha one outdrive. I haven't picked up the boat yet and I did not note the pitch of the prop. Since it is November and we will not be able to use our new boat until spring, I was wondering if someone could help me with this boat's performance numbers. What pitch is best, considering we will be mostly family cruising and tubing? What can we expect for top speed? Do we need to ad trim tabs? Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks and Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Re: 182 performance question
 

Look for top speed in between 45 to 48 with a 19 inch pitch lightly loaded. With a 21 inch pitch, you may get a little over 50, but your hole shot won't be as good. You want to be as close to 4800 rpm as possible at wide open throttle.

Look at other posts regarding Smart Tabs, they made an unbelievable improvement in the ride, performance, and handling of my 180.

I would add those before playing with prop sizes.

Re: 182 performance question
 

Thanks Paul. Your numbers are about what I had expected, pretty fast. I peeked at the prop and think it is a 19 inch aluminum, so I will expect mid forties. Once I get a chance to take my new toy out come spring, I will have a better idea on prop and tabs, etc. I can't wait, it will be a long winter! By the way, mine is a 2000 with 200 hours on it, in very nice condition and I paid $7,000. Tach is broken, but I understand Faria will honor the lifetime warranty, so I will send it back to them. Other than the tach, it may need new canvas since they are 9 years old. All tops are intact but showing some age cracks. Hull and interior are excellent condition. Seemed like a good deal.