X7- Disappointing performance

[eurosysytem0]

Hi Guys. First thanks for the advice received on the reason for the 12.5 x 12 four blade prop on my (new to me with 84hrs on the clock)2005 X7 with a 350 MCX engine. I am now in the position with Mastercraft where they are telling me to go to a UK dealer. My problem is that at 5100+ revs with just me in boat and a "perfect propeller" the boat only just reaches 40 mph (Checked with a GPS).

This performance is no better than my 1988 prostar powerslot with a 240 351 ford Inmar engine.
I believed the X7 would do circa 45 to 50.

Can any other X7 owners give me a view of their top end performace.
regards

[Sodar]

Same boat as yours in the Prostar apparel, but I top out at 45mph with no gear and just me in the boat. Speed drops down to 42ish with gear and 3 or 4 people.

[mramerman]

I have a '10 X14v. I do not know my prop off hand, although I know it is smaller than my former boat 1997 PS190 with LT1. This boat hits a top-end of 45 mph. It does weigh over 1,000 lbs more than my last boat. While I am sure a larger prop would push me beyond 50 like my old boat... i would sacrifice pull power out of the hole... and at the end of the day, I am all about what the boat can do between 0 - 36 mph. I don't care much about anything beyond that. Just my $0.02.

[lettmeknow]

Last time I checked , an x7 is a ski boat !! Not a racing boat:D

[92 190 PS]

Last time I checked , an x7 is a ski boat !! Not a racing boat:D

Understood, but for those of us that barefoot top end is a big deal and 40 is pushing it for many of us. Sad to say, but the only way to avoid issues with top end on a 197 is to go beyond the MCX in the engine upgrade. By the way I'm with Euro, my 92 190 runs 47 loaded with the 351 HO. Would pull barefooters at 43 to 44 if they wanted/needed to. Top end is one of the reasons I haven't jumped to a 197.

[eurosysytem0]

Last time I checked , an x7 is a ski boat !! Not a racing boat:D
Thanks for your useless contirbution. It really helps build "team relationships". Do you not have anything better to do.

[ttu]

now kids, play nice please!:D

[DooSPX]

I'm pretty sure the 197/X7 should run 45 empty w/ a driver... 40 does seem low... a four blade prop is not going to help your top end. most of the time it cuts it down 1 or 2 mph.
is the bottom of the boat clean?
what is the altitude?
fresh fuel in the boat?
a perfect prop for one fellow may not be the the perfect one for another fellow.
PM Eric @ OJ and talk with him. He will work with you till you are happy and that is guarantied!

[eurosysytem0]

Thanks for your input

[eurosysytem0]

Many thanks for taking the trouble to input.

[92 190 PS]

Last comment Euro is you may want to adjust weight (front to back etc) in the boat a bit to see if it makes any difference. Might try a fat sac or similar and move it around and see if you gain any performance. Agree with Doo, have heard great things about Eric and if you call him with prop details and RPM's he can probably get you a MPH or two...

[DooSPX]

Many thanks for taking the trouble to input.

We are just trying to help out a fellow MC'er! :cool:

[eurosysytem0]

Thanks, Hull is spotless. Fresh water lake at sea level. I appreciate your point about prop but my query relates to the standard spec and expected performance. My family undertake all 5 disciplines (Slalom, jump, tricks , wakeboard and barefoot) and as said by one of the other team talkers the top end issue is barefooting a 16+ stoner plus when I buy and expensive piece of kit I expect it to hit the speeds in the reviews. Again thanks for the input.

[Sodar]

You obviously have a 1:1 transmission and it seems you are reving up properly. You could come up another 200 rpms and maybe a new prop will do that. Do you carry a lot of gear in the boat? A 5mph difference in speed between your boat and my boat does not make sense.

[DooSPX]

okay, thank you for clearing that up!
try taking as much weight out as you can and play will fuel load levels.
I would not expect more than 42 from the 197 hull with a MCX after a few people and gear in the boat. One reason why your older prostar was a rocket is because of wetted surface area of the hull. the 197/X7 is heavier for one, then add the extra (WHOLE LOT) of wetted surface area is a HUGE factor for top speed.
I want to touch again on props... the stock prop is a good average for the average owner to work at average altitudes, etc.
a prop tailored to YOUR needs will be a HUGE advantage. by the way, OJ has the try before you buy program. he will send you any prop you like and you dont pay until you want one of them or your happy.


btw, sounds like a great boat for a great family.! please post pics when you can.

[russlars]

Don't forget to call ACME and try some of their props. My friend has an X7 and got the best performance out of a 3 blade ACME. He also tried some OJ's. I forget the number of the prop but give them a call also and get some trial props from them.

[DooSPX]

lately I have found the CS of bill to be a little lack luster. maybe its the time of the year or something.
Acme does make great props, but what many do with OJ is get props the same specs on paper as the other. OJ said to get the truest comparison between say the acme 13x12 would be a 13x11.5 OJ.
You have to speak directly to OJ and I recommend telling him what props you have or are going to try from the other brand, then will get you the best one for you app.
example, I had more questions about props... he said lets put $XXX.XX on your card and tell what one you like better. Eric as answered my questions with only mentioning the price of the prop one time, plus you dont have to pay for it up front.

you may find the acme to be the best, but you will never truly know till you have tested all the OJ counterpart

[eurosysytem0]

DoosPX
thanks. Would love to post image but dont know how.
Can you give me an "idiots" guide.
I am new to this Team talk game.
Also for all team members just for info I am a terired Brit (so its a BRit idiot) in the UK

Also for others when testing top end speed the only additional weight over the 190/197 is myself at 16 stone , the X7 tower and the empty fatsac etc.

[DooSPX]

Click POST REPLY (on left under last post)

scroll down, click on Manage Attachments
browse your computer to find the picture you want to post and click it, then click upload.
all pics have to be under 5mb in size I think.
You could load them into photobucket and that will resize them.

btw, what is 16 stone?
and what is the fuel load? try 1/4 and 1/2 tank and see if it makes a difference.

edit. found it... 14lb to one stone

[eurosysytem0]

Thanks I think I have done it. the local kids call it the "BAT BOAT"

[DooSPX]

There you go!!!

and WOW!!!!!!!!!

that is a nice boat... I think changing to the Prostar graphics will look killer on there if you dont like the tribal look.

[russlars]

lately I have found the CS of bill to be a little lack luster. maybe its the time of the year or something.
Acme does make great props, but what many do with OJ is get props the same specs on paper as the other. OJ said to get the truest comparison between say the acme 13x12 would be a 13x11.5 OJ.
You have to speak directly to OJ and I recommend telling him what props you have or are going to try from the other brand, then will get you the best one for you app.
example, I had more questions about props... he said lets put $XXX.XX on your card and tell what one you like better. Eric as answered my questions with only mentioning the price of the prop one time, plus you dont have to pay for it up front.

you may find the acme to be the best, but you will never truly know till you have tested all the OJ counterpart

No question that it is impossible to surpass the helpful customer service of Eric at OJ. I went through the prop trying experience last year and after trying several OJ's and ACME props ended up buying one of each. I actually prefer the slalom wake my boat throws out with the OJ, but when I am in the drivers seat I prefer the seat of the pants performance and speed of my ACME 541.:twocents:

[amcmac]

I have almost the exact same boat as you, 2005 X7, but with the RTP-1. I top out around 40mph on gps as well. Not sure if the MCX should make it go faster or not. I do wish I was around 45 as well.

[Andyg]

Euro,
I went through the exact same problem you are having now, the only difference is that my boat was a 2003 197 (including mini tower) with the MCX and 1:1 tranny. I first tried messing with the prop and it really didn't help. The boat would top out in the 42-43 range with just me in the boat. Trying to barefoot the boat would drop the speed down to 39-41 depending on the day. I tip the scales at around 210 and with size 10 1/2 ft that makes for a rough run at those speeds. I like footing in the 44-45 mph range. Trying to double barefoot was next to impossible.

I then decided instead of buying a new boat I would try and do some minor engine modifications to see if I could get another 2-3 mph out of the boat. Well after about $3000 I was still at 43 mph. I gave up and boat a 2007 with the LY6 and now have a 2008 with the LY6.

I came from a 1997 PS190 with the LT1 and powerslot. I didn't think twice that getting a new 197 with a 350 HP MCX would have any problems performing on the same level as the 1997 PS190 did. I have regretted every day since the day I traded in that 1997 PS190. The hole shot was better, the top end was better, the slalom wake was better. I still ski behind the 1997 PS190 on occasion as my buddy owns it now and he skis behind my boat. Every time we ski/barefoot behind my 2008 with the LY6 we comment on how much better it is when we ski/barefoot behind his boat.

As someone else mentioned I think you are better off with a three blade prop for you setup. I don't think it is going to get you to where you want to be. The problem is that these 197s are not barefoot boats. Even with my LY6 I am disappointed in my barefoot speed. I thought for sure with the LY6 I would be hitting 50mph with just me in the boat. On a good day with the stock OJ 3 blade prop I am lucky to hit 45. With the ACME 3 blade I can usually get the boat up to about 47ish.

Last thing to note is always use a GPS to verify your speed. All of my testing was done with hand held GPSs to verify speed.

[DooSPX]

These hulls where not built for top speed period.
their wetted surface area is unreal.
the engine mods are going to get you is hole shot, and maybe 1 mph. if that.
I still think a prop will be be best bang for you buck. if you have the patients, OJ will get you happy. you should still be able to run 42-43 in your X7, and a prop change may do it.
andyg is right about the new 190/197 not being barefoot boats...
to really get barefoot speeds that many like, a blower is the only option...

[Tags]

I have the same problem. The standard 4 blade on my 04 X7 is great for towing every other discipline of skier except barefooters. Is there anyone that can state which is the best prop from either OJ or Acme to get a few extra mph out of a MCX in an X7? Surely enough people have gone through this that someone knows for sure.

[Hoosier Bob]

Sounds really odd? Gas? What octane? I have a much older boat but get much more mph with 6 people and bimini up. I ran some cheap gas, knocked like crazy and adjusted timing. Lost top end and power. Yours will adjust to whatever you put in it. I am running 89-93 and 46-48 no matter what my load. Some minir engine mods but..... I have been in a few 197's MCX and the LTR I believe. Felt ok maybe a bit softer pull than mine but never ran them over 40 anyway. 43-45 I would think is very acceptable. You can pitch and HP the crap out of an inboard but eventually you will cavitate ot drive the bow into the water. Your choice.;)

PS I have a line on my tach at 4,000. I rarely exceed this as what would be the reason. I do know how fast my boat goes and if yours is lacking it is lacking at 36 as well. X7 really never needs to go above 22 anyway! Lol!

[Tags]

PS I have a line on my tach at 4,000. I rarely exceed this as what would be the reason. I do know how fast my boat goes and if yours is lacking it is lacking at 36 as well. X7 really never needs to go above 22 anyway! Lol!

thats not the case. the 4 blades fitted on 190's, 197's and X7's is a tournament style prop designed to provide more pull and a more consistent speed for the 3 disciplines trick, slalom and jump. At 36mph using perfect pass running the course my boat has far less variance than a mates older PS190 that has a much higher 48mph top speed. Top end speed has no bearing on torque or pull at lower speeds and rpm's

[eurosysytem0]

Thanks for the input

[eurosysytem0]

Thanks for the input. In the Uk basic petrol/gas is at least 95 ROM/Octane- so I dont think its the fuel. I guess the boat is just what it is---slower!

Regards

[eurosysytem0]

Its appears that the answer from others is reprop and to go to OJ.
I am just annoyed that the reviews on the X7 appeared to indicate circa 45mph and one even said 50. I have a friend with a 2004 sammy Duval 190 with Evo hull and 350 MCX and its indicated top speed is 47mph. hence the reason I felt cheated.
regards

[Tom Jones]

I have a 2003 197 with 310 TBI, it is virtually the same as the X-7 as I have a full OEM tower, speakers, double wakeboard racks, mirror etc. and the boat is loaded with heater and all the goodies. With one person in the boat I am getting 42.5 to 43 mph. Not GPS but my PP is dialed in at 36mph thru the slalam course using magnets. Your MCX should be doing better than my boat I would think. I'm only getting about 4400 RPM at top speed with OEM 4 blade prop.

[Hoosier Bob]

I run a 4 blade OJ spare. Cuts speed down to 43/44. If a boat is designed to run 45 and all things designed are in check but the boat runs 10% slower I would assume the impact is elsewhere as well. I get the boat was designed for skiing and three events. I also get the 48mph comment. The boat was designed to run 45 and it is not running 45. Manifold swap and a few other items is where I got 48 and around 400 rpms from. I think it pulls pretty hard and have ski'd a few 197's as well. Not really getting the variance issue unless you are skiing behind a non-HO. Never have so I cannot answer that one. thats not the case. the 4 blades fitted on 190's, 197's and X7's is a tournament style prop designed to provide more pull and a more consistent speed for the 3 disciplines trick, slalom and jump. At 36mph using perfect pass running the course my boat has far less variance than a mates older PS190 that has a much higher 48mph top speed. Top end speed has no bearing on torque or pull at lower speeds and rpm's

[DooSPX]

Its appears that the answer from others is reprop and to go to OJ.
I am just annoyed that the reviews on the X7 appeared to indicate circa 45mph and one even said 50. I have a friend with a 2004 sammy Duval 190 with Evo hull and 350 MCX and its indicated top speed is 47mph. hence the reason I felt cheated.
regards

be sure to talk to Eric @ OJ directly... not just picking props via numbers/specs, etc.
Tell him what the main goal of the boat is, weight and crew weight, rpms, etc.

[Wake2004]

What about your elevation? I know here in the rocky mountains (5280' and up) we run with a 5 -10% power loose when compared to sea level?

[eurosysytem0]

What about your elevation? I know here in the rocky mountains (5280' and up) we run with a 5 -10% power loose when compared to sea level?
As stated earlier-sea level freshwater lake but thanks for replying

[Wake2004]

Sorry missed that

[ntidsl]

I have an 2005 197 with MCX reduced tranny though. I never ever got 5000 rpm out of it and would be scared at 5000. Mine runs 1mph per 100rpm religously topping at 43mph...I know if I'm running 2800rpms my boat is going 28mph and confirm that on PP set with magnets every few months.

I have the prop that MC put on it and wouldn't switch after hearing about th guys who have.

Good luck figuring it out.

[Tags]

I run a 4 blade OJ spare. Cuts speed down to 43/44. If a boat is designed to run 45 and all things designed are in check but the boat runs 10% slower I would assume the impact is elsewhere as well. I get the boat was designed for skiing and three events. I also get the 48mph comment. The boat was designed to run 45 and it is not running 45. Manifold swap and a few other items is where I got 48 and around 400 rpms from. I think it pulls pretty hard and have ski'd a few 197's as well. Not really getting the variance issue unless you are skiing behind a non-HO. Never have so I cannot answer that one.

It revs out fine so i know its not engine related. The prop just looks tiny especially in comparison with a friends Malibu Response Lxi. I need to talk with a friend who changed props on his X7 about a year or so ago. I've barefooted two up with him behind his boat and the speed was fine.

[Hoosier Bob]

The prop sounds tiny! I have a 13/13 but I think ACME juices the pitch. Kind of like golfers who hit an 8 iron 220? If an 8 iron is rocked with 23 degrees loft it is a 5 iron! I am switching back to my 4 blade 13x13 OJ as it just ski'd better. Yes I will only do 43-44 mph but who cares. My point is why are you turning a smaller prop with less pitch? You have RPM's and more pitch and a 13 will most likely get you your speed but at what cost? A Mastercraft or any other ski boat should be judged at the handle not the seat. They are always going to be fun to drive but a small prop change can really make a big difference to a skier. Your RPM's sound high so personally I think you have room to add a bit more prop and pitch. Eric at OJ is your guy.It revs out fine so i know its not engine related. The prop just looks tiny especially in comparison with a friends Malibu Response Lxi. I need to talk with a friend who changed props on his X7 about a year or so ago. I've barefooted two up with him behind his boat and the speed was fine.

[93Prostar190]

Euro ... sorry to hear it ... really like the appearance of your boat, nic picture and welcome to TT. I feel a bit dumb after reading the entire thread, because like you I am expecting 42-43 without issue for your X7. (Maybe your boat knows it is good looking and it slows down so people can better look at it? ;)

Ok .. just kidding .. but I have a 214 (which is a bigger less nimble version of your 197) we run close to 45 when just me and I barefoot at 42/43 (I weigh 200 lbs, and 2 people are in the boat). I have the MCX and 1:1 tranny. My prop is the OJ 13x11(VC) 3 blade. Mini-tower, as well.

I have to agree with the folks that advise on talking to Eric at OJ .

In the interest of considering all crazy ideas here are some "out of the box ones"

I am assuming nothing in your racks for any kind of (wind drag?) do you have a splined prop shaft? or keyed ... any chance for prop slippage?

Try another prop .. maybe the one you have is not up to spec (re:defective).

Best of luck.

[Tom Jones]

Anyone know why the X2's with MCX go over 50mph stock? Seems odd for such a big heavy boat.

[Tom Jones]

I have another thought on this.
I know you have a DBW but on my 2004 197 I had to adjust the throttle cable to get the throttle body valves to open all the way. It gave me an additional 150 RPM and I gained at least 1 -2 mph.
The other thing I have found with my 197 is when I put a full size tower with all the goodies on it the weight distribution changed making the front of the boat heavier. It was like adding an extra person. It made the wake bigger at slalom speeds so now I always make sure the gas tank is full when I ski the slalom course. It flattens the wake out by distributing more weight to the back of the boat. If your X7 has all the goodies I'll bet you will gain some speed and RPM by filling the gas tank so the boat won't plow as much water. An inexpensive thing to try.

[eurosysytem0]

Euro ... sorry to hear it ... really like the appearance of your boat, nic picture and welcome to TT. I feel a bit dumb after reading the entire thread, because like you I am expecting 42-43 without issue for your X7. (Maybe your boat knows it is good looking and it slows down so people can better look at it? ;)

Ok .. just kidding .. but I have a 214 (which is a bigger less nimble version of your 197) we run close to 45 when just me and I barefoot at 42/43 (I weigh 200 lbs, and 2 people are in the boat). I have the MCX and 1:1 tranny. My prop is the OJ 13x11(VC) 3 blade. Mini-tower, as well.

I have to agree with the folks that advise on talking to Eric at OJ .

In the interest of considering all crazy ideas here are some "out of the box ones"

I am assuming nothing in your racks for any kind of (wind drag?) do you have a splined prop shaft? or keyed ... any chance for prop slippage?

Try another prop .. maybe the one you have is not up to spec (re:defective).

Best of luck.
Thanks for taking the time to input. All roads appear to lead to the prop because the mastercraft recommended prop just does not deliver the promises. 5100+revs,Clean boat-no excess drag,sea level altitude,minimum weight-driver only,perfect condition perfect 12.5 x 12 cnc prop (boat ONLY DONE 84HRS),good 95 ron gas, gps calibrated speedos and onlyjust 40 mph.Big Disappointment. I will talk to Eric at OJ.
Regards

[Sodar]

Just one more bit of info. Running such high octane actually decreases power and performance. I cannot find the thread, but a longstanding member, dealer and motorsports enthusiast (MYMC) stated that running higher octane in a boat that only requires 89 octane is actually counter productive. Take the info as you wish.

Found the post: http://www.mastercraft.com/teamtalk/showpost.php?p=39032&postcount=16

[Thrall]

Anyone know why the X2's with MCX go over 50mph stock? Seems odd for such a big heavy boat.

Hahaha, say what? By big and heavy I presume you mean the new hull X2 and there's no way they run 50 with any normal prop configuration except on the trailer on the way to the lake!

[etduc]

Just one more bit of info. Running such high octane actually decreases power and performance. I cannot find the thread, but a longstanding member, dealer and motorsports enthusiast (MYMC) stated that running higher octane in a boat that only requires 89 octane is actually counter productive. Take the info as you wish.

Found the post: http://www.mastercraft.com/teamtalk/showpost.php?p=39032&postcount=16

I agree with Cameron and MYMC.

High octane fuel, needs a higher compression ratio. I'm talking, way north of 10.5 ratio. Many smaller engine vehichles (Euro), have the higher ratios, higher revs, and higher pistion speeds,etc.

Many people believe (mistakenly) high octane is a better grade. (Implied by it's higher price. Price difference probably reflects, smaller sale volume, thus the need for higher profit, per gallon.) It is just different fuel. In the days before computer controlled ignitions, it was necessary. Not now, unless you are running high compression.

Here in the states 93+ octane gas, is usually substandard. (Sits in the stock tanks, a long time.) So where you buy gas, is also important. I'm not saying it is intentional, just is, what it is. (Another plus for 89 octane, here in the states. 89 is the most popular grade, therefore, freshest fuel) Many of the special additives and such, are to give it a longer shelf life.

Try to find some, lower octane fuel. You may have to, clear your computer, (I don't, if it is necessary) or run a tank or two, to clear out the old fuel.

[Forrest-X45]

Don't confuse the gas rating of RON versus AKI (Octane). 95 RON gas in Europe is equal to regular gas here in the states.
See Measurement Methods for more info:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octane_rating

eurosysytem
Indmar/MC recommend 89 octane so I would recommend you burn 97 RON gas to get your octane rating up. Going to 99 RON isn't necessary or super/premium unleaded here in the states unless you want to but I don't see a difference when I burn super unleaded 92 octane.

Worth a try to see if you see a difference.....

[DooSPX]

oh, I never bothered converting the fuel ratings!
That could make a difference... the computer will decrease its timing and other things which will decrease your performance...

[06197ttlq9-footer]

This is why I bought PS197 TT with LQ-9. It runs 48, and if an X-2 would run 50 I would have bought one of them instead.

On a side note you may want to try leaving your wallet on the dock....You know all the extra pounds. :) LOL

If any body can fix it ERIC @ OJ can.

[etduc]

Ya my bad, I saw the 95RON/octane, and start typing to fast.

So, that equals about 87MON/Octane (our gas), so computer could be retarding the engine. (Don't know the max rpm for this engine. I cringe at 4,300 rpm)

[eurosysytem0]

Ya my bad, I saw the 95RON/octane, and start typing to fast.

So, that equals about 87MON/Octane (our gas), so computer could be retarding the engine. (Don't know the max rpm for this engine. I cringe at 4,300 rpm)
Max RPM is 5200. I get 5100+. Still only get 40 mph
regards

[eurosysytem0]

Don't confuse the gas rating of RON versus AKI (Octane). 95 RON gas in Europe is equal to regular gas here in the states.
See Measurement Methods for more info:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octane_rating

eurosysytem
Indmar/MC recommend 89 octane so I would recommend you burn 97 RON gas to get your octane rating up. Going to 99 RON isn't necessary or super/premium unleaded here in the states unless you want to but I don't see a difference when I burn super unleaded 92 octane.

Worth a try to see if you see a difference.....
Just for info guys.

95 RON is the lowest octane we can get here in UK. we can get 97. As the boat is Certificate of Conformity for Europe I would expect Engine Management System (Its only done 84 hours) to be rated accordingly.

Anyway I will get it checked out because "Also" since getting the boat I have had a "significant pause" every time I "hit it" out of the hole. I have emailed Bill at Mastercraft Central but I am not getting any response to the question (bit disappointed all round in terms of their support)-particularly as I have been a Mastercraft man/owner (three boats) for the last 2) years. Remember "Nothing even comes close"

The Malibu guys with their wedges think its hilarious. Until 10 years ago we never had a Malibu on the lake. They now outnumber us two to one!!!!!!!!!!!!

I still think Mastercraft is the best!

[Jim@BAWS]

Just for info guys.

95 RON is the lowest octane we can get here in UK. we can get 97. As the boat is Certificate of Conformity for Europe I would expect Engine Management System (Its only done 84 hours) to be rated accordingly.

Anyway I will get it checked out because "Also" since getting the boat I have had a "significant pause" every time I "hit it" out of the hole. I have emailed Bill at Mastercraft Central but I am not getting any response to the question (bit disappointed all round in terms of their support)-particularly as I have been a Mastercraft man/owner (three boats) for the last 2) years. Remember "Nothing even comes close"

The Malibu guys with their wedges think its hilarious. Until 10 years ago we never had a Malibu on the lake. They now outnumber us two to one!!!!!!!!!!!!

I still think Mastercraft is the best!



Ya thats real funny...They BUY Malibus because they are LESS Money. especially when it comes to the exchange rate. Hey I have played that game on the phone with you guys on the other side of the pond " The Malibu is less money" I heard it more than once. Let me ask you this. The guys that bought BUs. Where they all looking for MCs in the first place?

If you bought a USED boat from a dealer. You need to start there...Not at the top!!!

Jim@BAWS

[eurosysytem0]

Ya thats real funny...They BUY Malibus because they are LESS Money. especially when it comes to the exchange rate. Hey I have played that game on the phone with you guys on the other side of the pond " The Malibu is less money" I heard it more than once. Let me ask you this. The guys that bought BUs. Where they all looking for MCs in the first place?

If you bought a USED boat from a dealer. You need to start there...Not at the top!!!

Jim@BAWS
Jim, thanks. I didnt buy it from a dealer I bought it privately and I have been in touch with UK dealers who are being helpful where they can.

I used this forum because I was interested in the balanced views of the MC teamers as "users and operators" of . I thought that was Team Talks purpose.

The response has been fantastic and supportive and its good to know "I am not alone" in addressing some of these issues which are clearly shared by others.

Sorry if I touched a nerve but its just a fact that over here, for what ever reason (including price), Malibus are becoming more and more common. I still bought another Mastercraft. Trust me for me its not a game on my part having just paid out the equivalent of $33000 for a 5 year old boat- which incidently we love and will love even more if I can get the issues sorted.
Regards

[Thrall]

What about your elevation? I know here in the rocky mountains (5280' and up) we run with a 5 -10% power loose when compared to sea level?

It's actually closer to 3% loss per 1000' elevation gain for naturally aspirated engines.
I can tell you taking my PS 190 from 7000' lakes to near sea level it felt like way more than 10% gain. Even going down to Powell (3000') it's significant.
Where do you live?

[Jim@BAWS]

I have beed reading this thread over the last week or so. Hot then Cold, Up then down!

This website is to help you out that is for sure. You purchased a USED boat from an individual not a dealer. Where speeds verified before you purchased?

Your MCX 1:1 should turn 52-5500 RPMs and you should get 42+ MPH out of it. Get a NEW prop
Change your fuel filter. Maybe some new plugs cap and rotor and go for it.

Problem solved

Jim@BAWS

[Thrall]

12.5x12 kinda sounds like a pulling prop, not a top end prop to me, but I'm not up on what works on a 197. See that you're getting all your rpms. Does it come out of the hole quick (aside from the pause, which if it's a hesitation in the motor, I'd look towards the IAC or TPS for the problem)?

Best bet, contact Eric at OJ or Bill at Acme and see what they reccomend for a speed prop.

[eurosysytem0]

Jim, thanks. I didnt buy it from a dealer I bought it privately and I have been in touch with UK dealers who are being helpful where they can.

I used this forum because I was interested in the balanced views of the MC teamers as "users and operators" of . I thought that was Team Talks purpose.

The response has been fantastic and supportive and its good to know "I am not alone" in addressing some of these issues which are clearly shared by others.

Sorry if I touched a nerve but its just a fact that over here, for what ever reason (including price), Malibus are becoming more and more common. I still bought another Mastercraft. Trust me for me its not a game on my part having just paid out the equivalent of $33000 for a 5 year old boat- which incidently we love and will love even more if I can get the issues sorted.
Regards
12345678910

[eurosysytem0]

I have beed reading this thread over the last week or so. Hot then Cold, Up then down!

This website is to help you out that is for sure. You purchased a USED boat from an individual not a dealer. Where speeds verified before you purchased?

Your MCX 1:1 should turn 52-5500 RPMs and you should get 42+ MPH out of it. Get a NEW prop
Change your fuel filter. Maybe some new plugs cap and rotor and go for it.

Problem solved

Jim@BAWS
Jim, again thanks for taking the time and trouble to get involved in my problem.

Bottom line is that it appears that, unless I reprop I have to live with what I have.:5100revs 40 mph

I did test on a Scottish Loch (lake 450 miles away from my place) before purchase and @ 5100 revs 4 people in boat 39mph with uncalibrated speedos but assumed that because it was reaching 5100+ revs that with lighter load and calibrated speedos the X7 would reach cirac 45-48 as I had read in various X7 reviews.

As you can see from thread it didnt and still doesnt with the specified 12.5X12 CNC prop, 1 in boat and GPS calibrated speedos still max of 40 @5100+. Even though a friends 2004 Evo sammy Duvall with same engine but 13 prop hits circa 45mph at 5100.

Bottom line is lack of top speed is only an issue for me personally @215lbs barefooting (badly). So now I intend to focus on the pause in acceleration which is a real pain in the UK arse (US butt).
So I remain very disapponted in X7 top end but still love the boat.I dont want to reprop and put at risk the grunt out of the hole and the lovely slalom wake.

Will check out filter etc as part of the problem solving for the acceleration pause.

My three girls and I still love the boat.

Regards to all contributors.

Its great to know you are all "out-there"

[Jim@BAWS]

I have yet to drive and see a 50 MPH 190/197/X7....

I have a 2006 with a 8.1 Powerslot and in makes 48-49 MPH.

I had a customer last week who swore his boat hit 52 MPH...until we adjusted the speedos. If you
want a 52 MPH boat adjust the speedos up and the pretend you weigh 185 LBS Problem solved

Go easy on the Guiness and lay off the FISH and CHIPS HA HA HA

Jim@BAWS

[eurosysytem0]

It's actually closer to 3% loss per 1000' elevation gain for naturally aspirated engines.
I can tell you taking my PS 190 from 7000' lakes to near sea level it felt like way more than 10% gain. Even going down to Powell (3000') it's significant.
Where do you live?
Hi,
I live in Oxford in the United Kingdom. Altitude is not a problem. Thanks for contributing

[Jim@BAWS]

Hi,
I live in Oxford in the United Kingdom. Altitude is not a problem. Thanks for contributing


Your from Oxford....do you know Obama...dont worry you dont have to admit it. I didnt vote for him either. I dont think anyone did!!! He probably owns a BU anyway

Jim@BAWS

[Thrall]

Hi,
I live in Oxford in the United Kingdom. Altitude is not a problem. Thanks for contributing

I know, was replying to Wake2004. Good luck getting it fixed up though.

[rhsprostar]

Plugs plugs plugs....when was the last time a tune up was done? I had a issues with my 197 LQ9 a few years ago...same sort of symptoms. It wasn't that noticeable just kind of annoying. Did a search on this forum and realized that the LQ9 eats plugs for breakfast.
Changed them out a voila....perferformance restored.
It may not be the same issue but a cheap an easy fix if it is....
47.3 mph on GPS with 2 people in the boat
Good luck.

[vision]

Semi off topic, and heresy I know, but most of the people I have seen lately barefootin are doing so behind a PWC. There is some advantage of being able to do 70 mph.