PS:...2" X-dim is not even considered "surface piercing"!!

I weighed the boat today 7,960 lbs & Extreme said the trailer weighs 1,900 lbs. Boat with gear & 96 gal. fuel is 6,060 lbs. If gas is 8 lbs per gal. right at claimed 5300 lbs. Essex claims 65 mph. will 800 to 1000 lbs scrub off 5 mph.
Thanks, Mike

I would expect at least 5mph loss for 800Ibs. I lose 1-2 mph for every extra person in the boat.

I thought about your X dim again if your x is truly 17+ inches you can't have the prop 6.5 " below the hull unless you used spacers. Measure the difference from the prop shaft center up to the hull with a strait edge. (keep the prop shaft parallel to the hull)
Something doesn't make sense here.

I have checked the drive #'s more then I like. I think they are right. Essex said they set up the drive by the ride plate @ 1.5" in. above the bottom of hull. I checked it that way & the #'s are the same that way also. Mercury Racing's tech think the prop might need to be lower for more leverage to lift the bow of the boat.
?????? HELP
Thanks, Mike

fresh water is 8 lbs per gal...gas is more like 6-6.5!!

If you think you need more bow lift try a mirage plus 23. it will give you extra lift.

Also if the drive is truly deep it will not slip very much. It's a good test.