[cherrycreek]

Hello,

I just purchased a 1994 Mariah Talari 180 with a Mercruiser 3.0LX and the Alpha One Outdrive. We had it out on the water after purchasing for a test run and have trouble getting it on plane in a reasonable out of time. Also, top speed was about 22 mph with 5 people in the boat. I get the feeling this isn't normal. The motor seemingly runs fine, albeit does likely have old gas in it---the previous owner didn't use it very much. The prop is a 3 blade prop---no idea what pitch it is. What's a reasonable top speed to achieve with this motor when running properly and fitted with the right prop? Also, what's a reasonable time to bring it to plane?

[mikeyt]

22 mph with 5 people in that boat is quite slow. You should be in the upper 30's. Fresh gas / plugs / tune-up may help get it back on track if the motor isn't simply tired & in need of a rebuild.

The most likely prop for that boat would be a 14.25 x 19" pitch 3 blade aluminum. Here's a link to a quick tutorial on Prop selection: Basic Propellor Rules

In addition to the correct prop, that boat will benefit considerably from the installation of a pair of Nauticus Smart Tabs. There is lots of discussion about Smart Tabs on this site and on the Facebook Mariah Owners group. They're relatively easy to install if you know how to use a tape measure and drill properly and combined with the right prop (& healthy engine), your boat should just pop out of the water and stay up on plane longer.

[cherrycreek]

Thank you so much for the info. This helps a lot.