Does anyone know how much weight a 200hp Merc can push??

[steve forsythe]

I have a 23 foot cc with full t-top, 3 batteries, 50 gallon livewell (not always full), 120 gallon gas tank in the center, gear, 2-3 180lb guys, ice, etc. This seems like a termendous amount of weight for a 2000 Mercury 200hp carb to push up on plane. Is there a weight rating for these outboards? Once up on plane it runs about 40mph in good seas. With the motor tilted down, trim tabs down, and one guy in the front it gets on plane ok. Does this sound normal?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Does anyone know how much weight a 200hp Merc can push??

A gallon of gas weighs 6 lbs X 120 = 720lbs + 540 people pounds + 35 pounds of batteries yup it is adding up! <br /><br />How are your rpm's? I understand that a 4 blade or 5 blade prop is better for heavier weight. I think you are about normal right now.<br /><br />Bob