Speed/prop/drive spacer
 

I have a 2008 28 heat, 496 ho, stock. 150 hrs or so.
What can I do to get more speed out of this boat. I seem to be in low 60's. I live in Michigan and use on lake Michigan. I started with a 26 pitch 4 blade bravo, and only turning 4300 rpms. Ordered a 23 pitch p5x hydromotive, and now getting only 4600 rpms????? Working with b blades, on getting a 24 pitch 4 blade, and labbing it. Do I need a drive spacer...my understanding is around 2008 Nordic changed the xd?

Welcome aboard, you are working with a great propeller guy in Brett. I am sure he'll find something that works for you.
Most people here with your engine run 24" B1 4 blades. The P-5X is obviously a great propeller too, but I don't know anyone running one on 496MAGHO. They are harder to turn and require some HP and torque, due to the additional blade area.
I would also recommend a 1" drive spacer on your Heat.
Regards,
Steve

thank you! i have my prop from brett, just have to run it and get him some info for labbing. should i check the xd before doing the drive spacer...or do 08 still require them?

It's always good to know what your current XD is before making any modifications. I would measure it.
You'll probably measure somewhere around 18.75" to 19.25"s.
Regards,
Steve

Side Note:

Just about every 496 Heat I have set up...having the prop shaft 4.5" below the keel...works best. This typically takes a 1" spacer. Check your prop shaft depth...and then add the appropriate spacer to get it near 4.5" below the keel.

A bravo one prop in the 24-26 range seems to work best at this horsepower level...depending on elevation, temperature, and loaded weight.


Chris

Thank you for the help....let me get some info and get back to you!

what kind of top speed, should i expect with a 496 ho?

Most boats, Heats included, have a + or - 5mph variable in actual top speed. The variable(s) are: setup (prop/XD/slip%),
total load (people/gas/gear), weather, altitude, water conditions, and driving technique. In perfect conditions you should see mid sixties on GPS.
Regards,
Steve

With the out drive all the to the lowest position, and from the keel (near drain plug...not step) to the center of the prop, I have 5.75 to 6 inches...do I need a 1" spacer?

Am I measuring this correctly?