Performance of my new (old) 175?

[vanfamily]

I am brand new to the whole boating scene, but hopefully did well with my first purchase- a 1995 SR 175 which seems to be in great shape. WOT of the 3.0L merc Alpha 1 combo is 4900 at 41 mph (by my gps). Do these numbers sound right? There are a few layers of very rough, peeling bottom paint on it and I am wondering if stripping it off will restore performance. I keep it trailered, not in the water. Thanks to anyone who can help.

 

[robbo8199]

Congrats on your purchase! My wife and I bought that exact same boat last summer and have absolutely loved it thus far. For a first time boater like ourselves it has been great.

Unfortunately I don' t know much about your current issue so I am not much of a resource on this topic. I'm sure someone will be able to lend a hand.

 

[Lazy Daze]

Your RPM's and speed numbers sound right. Striping the paint will have very little effect on your speed, but it will have a tremendous effect on your shoulder! Your RPM's are already 100 RPM's above the "spec" upper limit (it's OK, though) - to get more speed, you need more RPM's. I wouldn't change anything. Besides, underneath the paint it is still ugly looking - it won't be clean gel as you might be imagining.