Transom height and prop size

[Rebel50]

Hi

I have Mariner 40 hp 4 cylinder to mount on a bristol skiff(dory..flat bottom)
like this one
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rK-rXVAVWvU&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

On installing the motor, I saw the cavitation plate is about 2" below the flat bottom.

The bottom does have a center skeg 2.5" deep 1" wide. So the cavitation plate is 1/2" below that.

Should I leave the motor height just like it is? Seems like I should just to cover the V that will be made by the skeg at higher speeds..

the boat weighs about 800 lbs. Have a prop recommendation?

 

[steelespike]

Re: Transom height and prop size

Usually the last foot or so of the keel is tapered down to nothing to help clean up the water
disturbence.If the motor has a height adjustment mount it about even with bottom maybe leave one hole up and maybe 2 or 3 holes down if possible.Then run her and try to set the higest possible.The less you drag through the water the faster you go and control should be easier.
There are props that will allow more height and still improve handling and performance.
Your prop selection will depend on your present prop size and rpm and speed