You can run that 23" when only 2-3 people are in the boat, but you should get a 21" 3 blade for those days you plan on hauling five people around

Sorry. Not trying to be.

Here is a quick explanation of prop slip. http://www.brianrogers.net/boatpropslip.doc

The other thing I mentioned was simply the gear ratio of the drive. Usually your engine package came with the 1:1.47 gear ratio, but the 1:1.62 ratio is pretty common as well. Should be written on the left decal on the upper part of your drive.

I will check!! Thanks!

1997 scarab 22 with 300hp 7.4 25 mirage plus prop 63 mph with 2 people and fuel. Put five people in boat and barely get up on plane. Fast boat hull, slowest on speed plane was about 22-23 mph. Hard to keep on plane with a skier behind or pop a skier up on plane. Looking back, wish I would have added tabs.

It says Alpha One and then 1.50R and then a Serial #

So it's not much a ski boat. I figured that when I got it. It was between the 22' Scarab or a 1980 Hallett Open Bow Jet boat. I think I made the right decision. I am not trying to pull a skier. Probably a tube, maybe a knee board and that is about it. I think I am going to add the tabs. I found a guy on here that has them. I think they will help alot.

I have the same boat with the 7.4 and the 23P 3 blade Same problem, 2-3 people on bard and all is great but when I get more than that it is a dog to get on plane. I hope to go to a 4 blade to help out.

I don't want to hijack your thread, but how is your windshield done? Is it painted or gone Great looking boat.

Thank you. The windshield is gone. I do have it and was thinking about putting it back on, but it does look better off. It is dark smoke in color.

Curious... What are your speeds with the 454? Are you running a Alpha or Bravo Drive? After getting on here and chatting with people, I have decided to do the following:

#1 - Trim Tabs
#2 - Prop
#3 - Interior Upohstery (wasn't discussed, but adding it in here)
#4 - In a year or two.... 350 with forged internals with twin turbos running 5-6psi boost and run the Alpha Drive easy til it pukes and then get a Bravo 1 drive.

We shall see what really happens.

I need to get rid of my turbo sandrail before I do anything major.

Sounds like you're on the right track. You're not going to believe the difference the tabs make. Reality of that size boat is even minor changes in weight makes a big difference........that was like a Mr Obvious thing. Seriously though, make one change at a time so you can document the results.

Mine ran a little faster with a 502, but you are right on ,with the rest.