2003 228 Seafarer seems to ride low

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Saltllc

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Hi gang. I'm new to the forum and new to a used 2003 228 Seafarer. Boat has a hardtop and a 225 Yamaha 4 stroke. Everything about this boat is new to me. I've been a cetner console guy forever. The boat runs like its underpowered but at the same time, the 225 seems pretty heavy off the stern. The original owner named the boat "Taildragger" and now I think I know why. Is this typical? I love the boat otherwise. Thanks for any thoughts you might have.
 
I would look at the following: does the engine achieve WOT? If so what is the speed at WOT? Is the engine mounted too low /high ? What prop are you running. You can then check with some of the other forum members with similar setups to see where you should be after you get the answers to how your boat is setup. I doubt that the weight is an issue because its a 2003 and was made to handle a four stroke..besides , I have an F 250 on mine and weight is not a problem. Im sure you'll be able to get to the bottom of this rather quickly.
 
Thanks guys. Great suggestions. I'll check them out and re-post to see what you think. With two adults I can get it up to about 36 mph. Forgot to write the RPMs down so I'll have to re-test. Still tweaking the trim with the tabs and motor to get most efficient ride.
 
Something's not right....

What kind of shape is the bottom of the boat in? Full of growth or clean?
What prop are you turning? This setup was typically shipped with a Yamaha 17" SS prop. Max RPM for that motor is close to 6000 with that prop. Top speed should be 42-43 mph.
How much water is in the bilge?
How much junk is in the cabin? Extra weight will slow you down.
Have you pulled the inspection plate off the bracket to see if it's dry?
Are you trimming the motor up? Full trim down will give you 35-36 mph and a distinct steering pull to the right.

Check these things out and report back so we can help.
 
I have a 250 as well. I would think the boat should go a bit faster. I will share this. I hung a 4 blade prop on my motor and it really helped her get on a plane and out of the hole. It adds some stern lift. My fuel economy went up some but my top end dropped by about 1 mph. The prop is key here. Congrats on your purchase and welcome aboard.
 
You guys have been great. All good information. The weather has been too crappy to get out and write down the MPH and RPM figures. I always empty the bilge before leaving the dock so I don't think that's an issue. I hope to check the bracket this weekend. What I do know is that the prop is a 151/4 x 17M 3 blade.

Thanks again
 
Parthery is right. That rig should hit the North side of 40.

Zimm..If the bracket was full of water it would porpoise on plane with all that weight aft.
 
Saltllc said:
You guys have been great. All good information. The weather has been too crappy to get out and write down the MPH and RPM figures. I always empty the bilge before leaving the dock so I don't think that's an issue. I hope to check the bracket this weekend. What I do know is that the prop is a 151/4 x 17M 3 blade.

Thanks again[/quot

That prop should be fine. So, maybe water in the bracket, fouled bottom or engine too low creating drag? Of course its always possible that the motor itself is not reaching proper wot because of a mechanical problem. You need to get those RPM figures.
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