I have a 1992 Mercury 2.5 liter 200hp outboard motor. I am getting 5200 rpm. What is the optimal rpm?

Question

This motor is on a 1970 Robalo (cc). I am not sure of the weight of this boat, I know it is heavy. I am getting a max of 42 mph w/pretty good hole shot. Would prefer top end. Should I consider another prop or be content? I might add that the motor was rebuilt last year and seems to be pretty tight.

Answer 1

5500 to 6000 is tops. What do you do with your boat. If it is a ski boat pulling skis, tubes and wake boards the you are just fine. If it is a bassboat or some other lighter boat then a different prop could be used.

5200 RPM's is not bad for anything. Unless you are having problems I wouldn't change a thing.

Answer 2

5200 is in the normal operating range.  Since you say that the boat is heavy, you may want to take your prop to a local prop shop and have them DECREASE the pitch 1 inch.  This will allow your engine to rev at about 5600  RPM WOT.  It will give you much better acceleration and may increase your top end speed slightly.