'86 Checkmate Starflite/ '89 Johnson 225
 

I have an '86 Checkmate Starflite( 21', approx. 1400 lbs. ) with an '89 Johnson 225 ( 20" shaft, looper, compression is 85-90 on all cylinders). I have just completed a restoration of the boat and I was trying the old Johnson for monitary reasons. I have tried 4 or 5 different props on the boat, but I am unable to get more than 4800 RPMs with low top end. Every prop I have tied gives very similar results in RPMs and top end. No matter how much I trim the drive out, I get very little bow lift. With so much of the boat in the water I would expect slower speed and lower RPMs, what do I need to do to get the nose up? Bobs Machine Shop suggested a 5" jackplate. The tech from Checkmate said it's only a prop problem. I'm not sure the best way to go first! Any suggestions would be great!!!