1988 Force 50 HP top speed

[GRich69]

Hello all! I just put my latest resoration project in the water and wasn't sure if I got to the top speed of the boat/motor package. The set up is a 1988 Force 50 with a 1956 16' Crestliner fiberglass v-hull. I picked the boat/motor/trailer up on Craiglist for $750. I redid the interior, did some minor hull repair, and made sure the engine ran good without overheating via a dunk tank. The motor seems to run fairly well but stalled when shifting to gear a couple times. I only reached a top speed of just under 20mph on the speedo. Just wondering if I should be looking for other issues or if that's about all I should expect. It seems like a fairly light boat with a decent sized motor on it. I just expected more top speed. I would appreciate and input/opinions. Thanks
Gabe Richards

 

[Unbalanced]

Re: 1988 Force 50 HP top speed

Top speed is dependant on many variables. Hull design, boat weight, prop, engine RPM etc...

The engine should be running 4500 - 5500 RPM at WOT. Your best bet for speed will be to shoot for maximum pitch while maintaining at least 4500 RPM at WOT.
I don't know what pitch prop would be best for your set-up. That will take experimentation. - or someone with direct experience.

I would however figure out why the engine is stalling when you put it in gear. I'm sure that's an indication that the engine is out of tune/needs maintenance.

 

[puddle jumper]

Re: 1988 Force 50 HP top speed

As of for the prop they only make one for that model. About 20 mph is about right. for that engine.