CONDITIONS AFFECTING OPERATION - 6 TRIM AND WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
PROPELLER SELECTION
Trimming of the boat and positioning of the weight (gear and passengers) inside the boat has the following effects on handling:
Best all-around performance and maximum engine life is achieved when the engine is propped to run near the top of (but within) the recommended full throttle RPM range with a normal load. See ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS for rated full throttle RPM for your model engine.
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Trimming the bow up or shifting weight to the stern (rear). −
Normally used for cruising (running) with a choppy wave condition (following sea) for running at full speed.
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Will generally increase speed and engine RPM.
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Will cause the bow to bounce in rough water.
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In extreme, may cause the boat to porpoise.
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When coming off plane, it increases the chances of following wave splashing into the stern of the boat.
Trimming the bow down or shifting the weight to the bow (front). −
Normally used for cruising (running) against a choppy wave condition, acceleration onto plane and operating at slow planing speeds.
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Will improve rough water ride and handling.
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In extreme, may cause the boat to bow steer (veer back and forth with little control).
Generally, gross weight (total weight of the entire boat, including full fuel and water, optional equipment, passengers and other miscellaneous gear) is one of the major factors and should be one of the primary considerations when selecting a propeller. Other factors to take into consideration are as follows:
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Operating the boat in a higher elevation will cause an RPM loss.
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Operating the boat with an increased load will cause an RPM loss (additional equipment, passengers, etc.).
ENGINE RPM CHART
To ensure maximum engine performance, fuel economy and boat speed, the bottom of your boat must be kept clean and free of marine growth and barnacles. Marine vegetation may accumulate when the boat is docked and should be removed before operation. If the boat is docked for long periods of time, the water inlets may become clogged with growth and will cause the engine to overheat.
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Warmer weather and higher humidity will cause an RPM loss.
If full throttle RPM is above or below the recommended range as stated in ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS, the propeller must be changed to prevent loss of performance. A one-inch change in the pitch of a given propeller will generally change engine RPM by 150 to 250 RPM.
BOAT BOTTOM
In most areas, it is advisable to coat the boat bottom with antifouling paint to prevent the build-up of marine growth. Contact your dealer for advice on these requirements in your area.
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Model
Minimum Full Load
Preferred
Maximum
MP 5.7L
4800
5000
5200
CAUTION Prolonged WOT operation will shorten the life of your engine and could cause premature engine failure. See NORMAL CRUISING SPEEDS in SPECIFICATIONS. Problems caused by prolonged WOT operation are considered abuse and are not covered under the Crusader Warranty.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Your new Crusader engine incorporates an RPM “MAX GOVERNOR” in order to prevent the engine from over-revving. Operation above the Maximum RPM listed, in the chart above, is not recommended.
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