Checkmate Spectra 171
 

I have been hanging around for while, but really don't post anything.
So here it goes.
Got the Spectra 171 free about 10 years ago. 17'4" long, 7' wide, 1100 lbs.
It has a pad at the bottom, so speed should be good.
Now I have enough time and money to do something with it.
It was outboard power with 150 HP. I never ran it with that.
Didn't like the concept of 150 Hp hanging on the back.
Everyone will ask, WTF.
I think a Sweet 16 is nice in a Checkmate format.
So to keep it light I will install a new Infiniti Alum V8 4.5 L with a single turbo and intercooler. 550LBS only
The motor is capable of turning 7-8 grand with boost of 10-15 psi. making a WHOPPPING 700-1000 PONIES.
I finally found also a ASD6 drive with drop box 1.56 ratio. The prop shaft is 1.25 with 19 splines.
Looking around a little I ordered a 72L Velvet drive transmission good for 625 lbs ft.
I can marry the 3 together easily. Might need a driveshaft between trans and drive.

A few questions have arisen.
1. Where do I place the engine for a good center of gravity.
2. How much is too much power for a small boat.
3. What kind of prop should I start with? 15x 30? 3,4,5 blade?
4. How fast would this machine go without blowin over.
5. Should I install trim tabs on the back.
6. Should I set the drive further back with a 6" box. The drive is already 36" long anyways.

Update,
Ordered a Liberty Transmission in July, still hasn't arrived in November.
I ordered a Ron Hill prop, that almost fits. Had to rebore the end, it has larger threads on the ASD6 drive, otherwise fit great.

So now its the end of January I am still waiting on this Liberty 72L transmission. Maybe it shows up in the next month, so I can continue on the boat build.

Supposedly my Liberty Trans is being built this week And shows up in a couple more weeks. Then weather in the north has improved and we an get started again.