Guy Williamson from our Australian office sent me exciting news recently regarding our OptiMax 200XS SST race outboard. The latest generation of  the low emissions 2-stroke made a big impact at its Australian Formula Powerboat GP debut. The second round of the national series was held April 28-30 on the Clarence River in Grafton, Australia.

Mercury OptiMax changes the game for Australian Formula Poweboat GP racing. Photo credit: nashypics.com

Low-e OptiMax outboards place 2nd, 3rd, and 5th in F1 competition. Mercury F-1 outboards were 1st and 4th. Photo credit: nashypics.com

In a David vs Goliath performance, The three OptiMax entries finished 2-3 and 5th in Formula 1 competition. Apparently the Australian powerboat racing governing body has not yet finished its technical inspection and rule book for the 200 h.p. engine designed for Formula 2 competition. Those wishing to race were forced to move up into the Formula 1 class and compete against 300 h.p. Mercury 2.5 EFI race outboard powered hulls. Any way you look at it, it’s an all Mercury victory.

Reigning 2011 Australian F1 champion Damien Mackenzie continued his winning streak in Grafton. Although Damien was able to fend off the pesty F2 Opti entries – three of his fellow F1 competitors weren’t so lucky. Mercury OptiMax, driven by Michael Page, finished second, just ahead of fellow Opti competitor Grant Trask in My Home Now. Gavin Simmons finished behind the two OptiMax powered entries in his Mercury 2.5 EFI race outboard powered hull. Page and Trask are now 4th and 5th in the F1 points chase – despite their running F2 class engines and missing the 2012 season opener.

Veteran water ski racing driver Danial McMahon finished an impressive fifth in his first ever tunnel boat race.

OptiMax 200XS SST race outboard.

Daniel McMahon, veteran ski racing driver and rookie tunnel boat competitor, finished an impressive fifth overall in his Opti-powered 99 Psycho Clowns entry.

“We were out in the practice session Sunday morning and thought there was something wrong. The only boats on the water were the three OptiMax entries,” said Daniel.

“These things are great. You never worry how much time you put on them. It is great to have a product where you just cut laps,  not worry and most off all have fun!” Daniel said.

“The SST stands for Super Sport Tunnel and you can certainly see why,” said Troy Wood, team manager for SeaQuest Performance/Task Brothers Racing (sponsor of the three OptiMax powered entries).

“The 200XS SST has more than exceeded all of our expectations in both performance and reliability. They are smooth running with unbelievable fuel efficiency.  Some other race engines really have to be treated with kid gloves:  started – raced – put away. The Optis just keep going. You don’t have to touch them. Just start and go. We probably did three times as many laps as anyone else out there,” said Troy.

Winner of Class 2 competition at the 2011 Rouen endurance race.

Rouen 2011 Wiinner: Tech Motor Racing Matmut #16.

Guy summed up his note to me by writing,  “It’s fair to say we’ve shaken things up quite a bit with the OptiMax 200XS SST.” The next event on the 2012 Australian Formula Powerboat GP schedule is Lake Albert in Wagga Wagga, Australia, June 16-17.

24 Hours: Later

The next race event to feature the efficiency and reliability of the low-emission OptiMax is the legendary 24 Hours of Rouen endurance powerboat race. Due to an accident that occurred at the 2010 event, the race will run a total of 24 hours over the course of three days (May 26-28) instead of its historical 24 hours of non-stop racing. I’ll post a preview the week leading up to the start of this exciting race.

Phantom on her way to Card Stop #1.

I managed to hitch a ride with my new friend, Ken Armstrong, on board his 1350 powered 48 MTI “Phantom” for the poker run on Friday and found myself cruising at 159 mph! Hearing “Come on. Let’s go!” I wasn’t about to go back to the rental car for either my GoPro or Drift HD170 camera. So, I videoed with my Flip camera – hand held, no less. My audio sucks, but that’s a function of Ken’s stereo (complete with hydraulically actuated speaker hatches) blowing away the puny mic of my humble little camera – not Ken’s on-board sound system, which could entertain Las Vegas without leaving Lake Havasu!

Boys from Wisconsin mix well with Canadians!

Same time, Brad Macaulay loaded up some of my Wisconsin friends for a tour in his 1100 powered, Mercury Racing Blue, DCB M31 Widebody. More of my friends joined Robert Brown aboard his Mercury Verado powered photo boat for up close viewing of the Poker Run. (My buddies had come to see “Fred’s world” on display in Lake Havasu City. With the help of some marine industry friends, we gave ‘em a show!)

2700 hp and 2700 lb-ft of torque from Mercury Racing push Gary Williams' DCB M31 to 184 mph!

Shortly after the Poker Run event, Tony Chiaramonte and Dave Hemmingson of DCB offered up a casual cruise in Gary Williams’ Green Machine, an M31.  Powered with twin 1350s and in the right hands, this craft is capable of 184 mph! With Tony at the controls, we enjoyed some “smack-back” accelerations form the mid-90’s to about 125 mph. WOW! Experiencing 2,700 lb-ft of torque applied to a 31 foot DCB was exciting — with Rex, Dave, Jim and me as passengers, too. Excellent time. More, please.

I did a lot of editing to condense this special day into less than four minutes of video, but I think you’ll get the feel of Desert Storm on the waters of Lake Havasu. Enjoy!

Gary Williams' M31 DCB challenges the "big power" and full race boats. Dave Hemmingson enjoys being the first boat brand to the card stop.

I had a blast at Desert Storm this year. (Or should I say “once again this year!”?) The first West Coast showing of our new 565 was at the Havasu Boat Show just last week — and we had one on display at Desert Storm’s street party and another in a 24 Nordic!  And in even greater numbers than last year, Mercury Racing QC4v engines were back. 

Frisini 43 Catania, with Dr. Jasper at the helm, running Lake Havasu.

Dave’s Custom Boats (DCB) had four customers’ boats with QC4v power. Marine Technology Inc‘s (MTI) 1350 powered “Phantom” 48 was pounding out tunes as well as boat speed — its twin 1350s performing dual roles of power and musical accompaniment. (I tagged along with owner, Ken Armstrong, and his crew for the poker run — and the party that seems to spring up wherever he goes. Wow! I think “Phantom” could idle on its sub-woofers alone.) And there’s more! Dr. Gabe Jasper’s brand new, bright red and silver Frisini 43 Catania catamaran with 1350′s made its desert debut as well.

Ken Armstrong's Phantom themed MTI is a real crowd pleaser -- unless you're among the crowd left in his wake.

Dave Hemmingson enjoys turning heads with Mercury Racing QC4v’s. At Desert Storm last year, DCB was ripping up Lake Havasu with Mike Stevenson’s stunning orange and black, 2,700 horsepower M35 Wide Body. In 2010, Gary Williams’ 1350 powered M31 recorded 176.4 mph. This year, with the same 1350s coupled to a new pair of Mercury Racing Pro-Finish CNC props, the metallic green rocket ship ran over 180 mph  – on pump gas! The official speed record for a single engine boat this year? Troy Rapp’s DCB F29. Sporting a single Mercury 1350, the 29-foot cat clocked an astounding 129 mph in Saturday’s shootout! 

This 1350 powered DCB F29 came for serious results: 129 mph in Saturday's speed trials.

Another strong performance came in the form of the new Outerlimits SV29 vee bottom: with a single Mercury Racing 600 SCi, Mike Fiori pegged Desert Storm’s speed trials meter at 101 mph! Yes, ONE 8.2 liter Mercury Racing engine with 600 horsepower ran past the magic, three digit mark in this new SV29!

A single Mercury Racing 600SCi powers Outerlimits' new 29 across the 100 mph mark.

Another amazing specimen, fresh from the Miami Boat Show, was Brad Macaulay’s Racing Blue M31 DCB with Mercury 1100s. Showing both maturity and good judgement, Brad said he was not going to “run with the big boys” as he wanted to get more seat time. This made me feel very comfortable hitching a ride down the lake with this conservative Canadian. In his capable hands, his M31 was a spectacular boat! In the hands of a pro, it has wheeled up over 150 mph — on 89 octane pump gas.

Of course, there were 700 SCi powered Cigarettes and DCBs. Mike DeFrees had his Merc 850 SCi powered Team CRC MTI race boat. There were plenty of others rounding out the field. Many Mercury customers showed pride in their 525 EFIs, 600 SCi’s and 300XS OptiMax’s. There were sparkly and twinkly old-school blower mills, in classic Lake Havasu fashion. Also on hand, an abundance of high performance eye candy for viewing pleasure — the boats looked good, too.

Me... aboard Brad's twin 1100 powered M31 Wide Body from DCB. We're cruising at 4000 rpm and 95 mph! Photo credit: Jim Sartori. god of cheese making.

Ah, Desert Storm on Lake Havasu… Low on gas and batteries nearly dead, it’s back to reality for the “Mercury Racing Poker Run Support Team” and its fearless leader, yours truly. It’s good to know that Racing’s men and women back home are building more powertrains for our intrepid customers. Big smiles and genuine high performance speak volumes, if not loudly: When’s the last time you listened to rap tunes at 160 mph? For me, Saturday, April 28, 2012. You and I are going to want more time spent like this! (OK, maybe with a little more rap.)

The Mercury truck in position at the Lake Havasu Boat Show. Photo credit: Bob Brown.

Mercury Racing M8 drives on the transom of a 1350 powered DCB M-35 Wide Body. Photo credit: Bob Brown.

I just got off the phone with our National Sales Manager, Kevin Skiba. Kevin is on his way back from Arizona after the Lake Havasu Boat Show.  It sounds like the show was a resounding success. Kevin and drive technician Dave Vehrs represented Mercury Racing at the show. Other Mercury reps included Brad Hammel from Mecury Repower  and West Coast Technical Area Manager Michael Scott.

Lake Havasu is a Mecca for performance boating. It’s only natural to have a boat show and the upcoming Desert Storm Poker Run there. Performance boat exhibitors for the boat show included Advantage, Conquest/Group 1, DCB, Hallett,  Eliminator, Howard, E-Ticket, Doug Wright and MTI.

New boats making their Havasu debut included Nordic’s sporty new 24-foot catamaran powered by a single 565 sterndrive and Frisini Motorsports’ new SCX 43 cat with twin 1350s.

Calm Before the Storm

A scene from the 2011 Desert Storm street party.

Our new CNC Cleaver Prop Covers were a big hit at the boat show. Photo credit: Bob Brown.

It’s going to be a crazy, fun next couple of days. Kevin and Dave brought our truck over to Oregon Custom Marine (OCM) Monday to unload engine displays for the Desert Storm Poker Run open house and Kruzin’ for Kids silent auction on Wednesday evening. We are supporting the kids by donating two CNC Cleaver Prop Covers and a certificate for Lab Finishing or repair of one set of Bravo I propellers. Our indoor display will feature a 565 — painted Devil Red-Eye (one of 10 color options available for the 8.7 liter big block). We’ll also display a 1350 engine package along with a variety of Mercury Racing Propellers and Accessories.

Front graphic of the Mercury Racing Desert Storm event T-shirt.

Back graphic for the Mercury Racing event T-shirt.

Thursday morning, we’ll be busy setting up Racing’s truck for the 6th Annual Desert Storm Street Party. We like to reference 1350 McCulloch Boulevard as our temporary address at the largest street party of its kind. “All hands on deck” for the street party and poker run: Fred Kiekhaefer, Erik Christiansen, Mike Griffiths, Scott Reichow, Jeff Krueger and Dave Vehrs and I will be on-site to meet and greet customers and fans. Our merchandise supplier Threds will once again debut a Desert Storm event T-shirt. They will be selling the latest and greatest Mercury Racing merchandise throughout the three-day event.

Poker Run

Randy Davis took this 1350 powered Nordic 43 Enforcer for it's maiden voyage during the 2011 poker run.

Robert Brown photographed this 1350 powered DCB for us last year.

I’m very excited to see the new boats on the water. We are honored to have Robert Brown shooting photography for us with his one-of-a-kind photo boat. Robert has also coordinated a second photographer for aerial shots of the poker run. John Potts, owner and ace camera guy of American Performance Television, is capturing the street party and poker run in HD video for Mercury Racing’s use in future social media posts.

We have a number of boats on our shoot list, including DCB’s new M-29 Wide Body powered by a single 1350! We’ll also capture the 565 powered Nordic 24 cat and the Frisini SCX 43 cat with twin 1350s. Of course, we all love snagging running shots and video of 1350 powered MTIs and Cigarettes. The new 32-foot Doug Wright cat with twin OptiMax 300XS outboards peaks my interest, too. We’ll want to capture a variety of other hulls powered by Mercury Racing outboards (OptiMax 250 SportXS, Verado 350 SCi) and sterndrives (525 EFI, 700 SCi).

For those of you going to Lake Havasu City, please stop by and say, “Hello.” For those not able to go – be sure to follow my photo uploads to the Mercury Racing Facebook page. Don’t miss post-event blog posts from Fred and me.

Mercury Marine reps celebrate another BASS Classic victory. (L-R) Scott Reichow, Kevin "KB" Brown, Mike Shedivy, Randy Qualls (Legend Boats), Chris Lane (2012 Classic Winner), Michelle Kilburn, Steve Miller

The Pro Finish Bravo I XS outboard propeller features a tuned exhaust tube with large one-inch vent holes for enhanced 2-stroke outboard performance.

I’m fortunate to annually represent Mercury Racing at the Bass Master Classic in the Mercury booth. This year, a fisherman named Rick asked me if there was a Mercury prop that would work for him. He had recently purchased a 2012 Triton 19XS powered by an OptiMax Pro XS 200. Rick was frustrated with the performance. The sharp turns and switchbacks on the Bayou where he runs were causing his propeller to break loose. This forced him to back off the throttle, causing the boat to lose speed and drop off plane. Rick had contacted his Triton representative regarding the issue. Although they discussed various options, the rep suggested Rick continue using a three blade prop.

The performance facts that I gathered in our conversation pointed me to a Bravo I XS. I told Rick the prop is designed specifically for low-emissions 2-stroke OptiMax outboards. Rick responded, “Isn’t Bravo I a sterndrive prop?”

Lab Finished Bravo I sterndrive propeller.

I explained the Bravo I was first conceived as a sterndrive prop. However, Mercury Racing modified it for use on outboards as well. At Racing, we sweat the details — creating a perfectly balanced prop with a tuned exhaust tube, durable blades, clean leading edges and uniform cup heights. All of these unique features work together for enhanced 2-stroke outboard performance.

Rick was genuinely interested in the Bravo I XS. He asked, “What kind of planing speed and top-end speed can I expect when compared to my current prop? More importantly, will the Bravo I XS stay hooked up in turns?” All good questions.

I had asked Rick if he had a jack plate. He said he did. I asked him to get a bench mark with the Bravo I XS by starting at Triton’s recommended engine height for a three-blade prop. I then suggested he raise the engine in 1/4″ increments until he finds the sweet spot. In Rick’s application, the sweet spot is 3/4″ up from factory recommended height.

Rick's Rig.

Rick's Triton 19XS with OptiMax 200 Pro XS.

The beauty of the Bravo I XS is it will allow  increased engine height for better performance. The Bravo I XS actually gives a better hole shot at higher transom heights. What’s also cool is you’ll need to increase 1” of pitch to achieve the same RPM at wide open throttle. Increased pitch at the same full throttle RPM means greater top-end speed. It also yields greater efficiency and thus fuel economy as the propeller moves further through the water (and the engine works less) at cruise. Rick provided me with the following test information.

Running shot of an OptiMax Pro XS powered 19XS. Photo credit: Triton Boats

“Top speed with the 24″ Tempest Plus prop was 64.6 mph as measured on my Lowrance HDS-8. Top speed with the 25″ Bravo I XS is 65.8 mph. Performance is noticeably better at mid-range speeds as the Triton now has more “snap” when I give it full throttle. My fishing partner noticed the difference too,” said Rick.

Mercury TempestPlus propeller.

Rick continued, “It seems to me it’s more important than ever to have the boat running at optimal efficiency with the price of gas where it is. My home town of Picayune, Mississippi is about 50 miles from New Orleans. Louisiana has better bass fishing and thus I spend almost all my time fishing there. If you do a Google Earth search of the Southeast Louisiana Coast, you will see why having a boat that is nimble in turns is so vital.”

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Test Results:
2012 Triton 19XS with Mercury 200 Pro XS

Before: Tempest Plus
Engine height: Triton factory setting (sorry no numbers)
Propeller: Mercury Tempest Plus 24” pitch
Performance: Hole shot was great, falling off plan in slow speed turns, top speed 64.6 at 5800 RPM

The 25" pitch Bravo I XS on Rick's OptiMax Pro XS 200.

After: Bravo I XS
Engine height: Rick raised it ¼” at a time going up a total of 1” bringing it back down to ¾” above factory setting
Propeller: Mercury Racing Bravo I XS 25” pitch
Performance: Hole shot was the same – great, locked in with slow speed turns, top speed 65.8 at 5800 RPM

Rick concluded, “The boat jumps on plane. Handling in twisty turns was incredible, even with the switchbacks. The boat never once dropped off plane. If that wasn’t enough, I actually gained top speed. Where I come from we have a saying for something like this, we call it “Lagniappe” (Lan-Yap). It means something extra; you’re giving your customers something extra with this prop. Good job.”

Damage to a boat engine carburetor as a result of ethanol at 10% (E10). Photo courtesy BoatUS.

Mercury Racing has received numerous questions on ethanol fuel in older engines. Here is an article from BoatUS, written with input from Mercury engineers (republished with permission), that covers many of the ethanol issues:

A Shotgun Marriage? Ethanol and Old Outboard Boat Engines

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 28, 2012 — Ever since E10 gasoline (gas containing 10% ethanol) became widely available several years ago, the nation’s largest recreational boat owners group, BoatUS, has received hundreds of calls and emails complaining about boat engine problems. The majority of complaints concern older outboard motors, those made before about 1990. BoatUS’ Seaworthy magazine asked Mercury Marine’s Ed Alyanak and Frank Kelley, who between them have over 60 years of experience, to find out what’s made these decades-old outboards more susceptible to ethanol’s well-known problems and what owners can do.

1. Vulnerable hoses: In the mid 1980′s new standards (SAE J1527) for fuel hoses were developed for “gasohol,” which was known to deteriorate rubber and plastics. Since then, problems with hoses have largely gone away, but that doesn’t mean they are maintenance free. Tech Tip: Any hose older than 10 years should be replaced. Here’s another way to test rubber fuel hose condition: wipe a clean rag along the hose. If you smell gas on the rag, replace the hose immediately.

2. Carburetors: O-rings and rubber carburetor parts on older engines tend to get hard and brittle when exposed to ethanol and then break off in bits and pieces causing clogs, misfires and shutdowns. Pre-1990 carburetors were also made from alloys that didn’t stand up to ethanol, leading to corrosion that can cause tiny fuel orifices to clog, resulting in hard starts and poor running. Old carbs are also “dumb” in that they were designed to run on only one type of fuel. Ethanol, however, has more oxygen and affects the air/fuel ratio, causing engines to run leaner and hotter. Tech Tip: The best solution with old outboards is to run straight gas – if you can find it. Some mechanics may also have the ability to “recalibrate” a carburetor to tolerate E10 (note: gas with ethanol greater than 10% should never be used with any boat engine).

3. Plastic fuel filter bowl: Some older engines may have plastic fuel filter bowls. Tech Tip: If you still have one, replace immediately with a metal bowl.

4. Fuel fill gasket: Keeping water out of the fuel tank is even more important with ethanol as it can eventually lead to the formation of two separate solutions in the gas tank (water and fuel), also known as phase separation. The process is more common on older boats which are more likely to have accumulated water at the bottom of the tank. Once phase separation happens – the tipping point when water in the gas is either harmlessly ingested or transformed into a corrosive mixture no engine will run on – there’s no going back. No fuel additive can restore E10 back to its normal state. Tech Tip: Age and exposure to ethanol can rot fill gaskets or O-rings. Replace them every few years.

5. “Gunk” in the tank: It is still possible that some old outboards and boat fuel systems have yet to sip a drop of E10. But once your boat drinks its first tankful, ethanol will “scour” or dissolve the gunk that’s been coating the tank walls (and hoses) for years. Tech tip: You may want to think about hiring a professional to have the tank drained completely of any gas and water at the bottom before adding your first load of E10. If not, keep a supply of filters on hand – they will clog quickly. Always use a fuel stabilizer and avoid using octane boosters that contain ethanol.

For more information on ethanol and boat engines, go to  http://www.BoatUS.com/seaworthy/ethanol.asp.

Pre-run inspection of a 700 SCi powered DCB catamaran. Photo credit: Tres Martin's Performance Boat School.

Twin OptiMax 300XS outboards rigged on a 30-foot Spectre catamaran.

In my previous post (Part 2) regarding high performance boat operation, I reviewed basic information on rigging fit and function. Now its time to head to the ramp.

While the boat is still on the trailer, walk around for a visual inspection of the hull.  Next, climb aboard for a visual inspection of the interior and engine compartment (motor well for outboards): ensure everything is in place and secure. Don’t forget the drain plug(s)!  Check your other safety accessories: aboard? In secure locations?

Helm of a DCB M35 catamaran powered by twin 700 SCi sterndrives.

Helm of 50-foot Cigarette Marauder with twin 1350 sterndrives.

Once your boat is launched,  review the helm to familiarize yourself with the location and function of all instruments and controls. Make sure the steering wheel, throttle and shift controls are well within your reach and that you are comfortable with their operation.

If your boat is fitted with K-Plane trim tabs, be comfortable with the location and operation of the tab trim switches. The driver needs to know the location and function of accessory switches such as bilge blower, bilge pump, running lights, horn, courtesy lights and related fuses, or circuit breakers.

All boats should be equipped with a safety stop switch and a lanyard. Prior to starting the engine(s), attach the safety stop switch lanyard to your life jacket! Once the engine(s) are started, verify all engine and vessel gauges are in proper working order and engine/vessel functions are normal. Test the safety stop switch function before you head out.

Performance Boat School Instructor Brad Schoenwald (R) with student driver. Photo credit: Tres Martin's Performance Boat School.

The Mercury Racing Guide to Hi-Performance Operation recommends you be accompanied on your first ride by a person experienced in high performance boat operation and handling. I would go one further: I advise all owners of performance boats to attend a performance boat driving school. I spoke with Brad Schoenwald, an instructor at Tres Martin’s Performance Boat School, to get a feel for what you can expect to learn and experience.

Performance Boat Driving School founder Tres Martin providing classroom instruction. Photo credit: Tres Martin's Performance Boat School.

Brad said their school is a two day course. The first day is eight hours of classroom work — chalkboard and multimedia instruction — covering everything from basic boating laws and regulations to performance boat hull types, trim, power and propulsion. Brad said they get students with the full range of experience attending their courses — from experienced drivers (including former boat racers like our own Fred Kiekhaefer) to first time performance boaters and non-boaters who want to become educated consumers.

Tres Martin provided instruction to Mercury Racing employees in Fond du Lac. Photo credit: Tres Martin's Performance Boat School.

I think it is important to approach each new boat with an open mind – as if it was your first boating experience. Every boat is different. One vee bottom is different from another. Moving from a vee-bottom to a catamaran is a different experience again. Brad reinforced my “open mind” approach.

Tres providing classroom instruction at Mercury Racing. Photo courtesy of Tres Martin's Performance Boat School.

“Novices are the least [predisposed to] instruction. They have no preconceived notions as to what is right and wrong. Folks with lots of boating experience and exposure to performance boats learn they were doing some things incorrectly,” said Brad.

Brad continued, “Performance,” is about human performance. The goal is for a student to able to demonstrate their skill upon completion of the two-day course.”

Back to School – Day 1:

The classroom work consists of 11 lessons. The performance boat agenda includes the following topics:

• Boating safety
• Impaired driving
• Hull types and function
• Hydrodynamics
• Displacement
• Propellers (types, diameter,pitch, rake, blades)
• Drives (types, height, set-up)
• On plane performance
• Off plane performance
• Turning
• Collision avoidance
• Power trim (what is optimum in various conditions, speeds, etc). The take-a-way: Trim is constantly changing.
• Trim Tab (form and function)

Lesson plans are tailored to specific hull types.

Day 2: The Art of Boat Driving

Students progress at their own pace. Photo credit: Tres Martin's Performance Boat School.

Students are trained in their own boats. Photo credit: Tres Martin's Performance Boat School.

On-water training includes trailering, launching and basic dock maneuvers.  “Students are trained one-on-one with an instructor in their own boats. This way, they are certified in the exact craft they will be using. The on-water training may be anywhere from two to eight hours. It all depends on the individual and the time they need to feel comfortable and competent behind the wheel,” said Brad.

In-boat training consists of applying the topics and skills learned in the classroom the day before. A majority of boats have been sterndrive powered; however, they have trained a good number of people in outboard catamarans as well. All in-boat training is progression based, with students learning various maneuvers at their own pace.  Visit Matt Trulio’s Speed on the Water website for additional information on this school and upcoming course dates.

This information should help you prepare for the boating season ahead. Be safe and smart out there!

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The New Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Propeller Cover.

As you prepare for the upcoming boating season, remember to check the condition of your props to ensure they are in good condition and ready to go.

Mercury Racing 6-blade CNC Cleaver propeller.

To keep them in good shape, use propeller covers. We’ve developed an all-new cover specifically for Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver propellers. The 18-inch diameter cover features a tough, tear resistant and waterproof nylon shell. Red webbing highlights the outer edge. The silk screened Mercury Racing logo resists absorption of oil, grease and other contaminants.

The interior is lined with a tough ballistics material. The puncture resistant lining encases a marine grade padding to help protect the prop from impact.

A rear view showing the versatile draw string, carrying strap and D-rings.

The versatile new cover features an adjustable draw string. This makes installation and removal of the cover much easier than covers which rely on an elastic “one-size-fits-all” design.

Our new CNC Prop Cover also features an adjustable strap which can be adjusted so the prop will lay in a comfortable vertical position when carried. Heavy-duty D-rings, sewn into a robust webbing material, enable you to secure the cover to the gearcase by use of a bungee cord, tie-strap, rope or other means.

Pro Finish Bravo I XS Propeller.

The new Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Prop Covers will make their public debut at the Desert Storm Poker Run. The part number is 8M0069320. MSRP is $145.00. They may be purchased from any Mercury OEM boat builder partner or dealer.

I’m sure these new covers, with their added protection and versatile features, will be a big hit. To me, it is only natural boaters who have dialed-in their boats with our new Bravo I XS and Bravo I FS outboard props would appreciate a cover with the same features and benefits for their props. Let me know if you would like to see a high quality Bravo style prop cover added to our line of Mercury Racing accessories.

The OptiMax 300XS is very popular for singe and multple engine applications.

The 300XS on this Hydrostream features a 20-inch mid section and Sport Master gearcase.

Performance boats vary widely in propulsion and size. Outboards come in 20, 25 and 30-inch drive shaft lengths to accommodate a variety of applications. Mercury (and other brand) outboards are fitted with a standard gearcase for most applications. Hulls that can take advantage of the high power-to-weight ratio of an OptiMax 300XS may benefit from its wide range of gearcase options. Similarly, Mercury Racing offers a variety of sterndrives for differing power capacities and hull types.

Mercury Racing Zero Effort Digital throttles.

Mechanical control: High performance outboards are usually rigged with with dual steering cables, a shift cable, throttle cable and fuel line. With performance sterndrives, throttle and shift are accomplished with cables, but steering is hydraulic. These include 525, 600, 662 and 700 Mercury Racing packages.

Digital control: On SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift compatible outboards, such as the Verado 350 SCi and sterndrives including the 565, 1100 and 1350, mechanical throttle and shift cables are gone — replaced with a single electronic cable. Steering is either electric (Verado) or hydraulic (MerCruiser).

The 300XS Offshore mid section features a heavy-duty swivel clamp bracket with a robust trim cylinder.

SmartCraft shadow-mode technology allows the operator of this boat to control five Verado outboards with three throttles and shifters.

OpiMax 300XS models feature a heavy-duty swivel/clamp bracket and trim cylinder to endure the rigors of extended use in rough seas. The trim cylinder is actuated via a remotely mounted pump. A majority of today’s outboards feature trim systems mounted within the swivel clamp bracket assembly. Verado outboards come equipped with integral power trim and steering. OptiMax outboards come standard with mechanical steering.

Two steering system types are available: Full Feedback and No Feedback. With Full Feedback, steering loads from an outboard or sterndrive are continually transmitted to the steering wheel. This is the preferred system used by tunnel boat drivers for “feel” of their craft while driving at the limit. One disadvantage: steering forces increase as engine or drive height or trim is increased. The steering wheel must be secured at all times to maintain control.

A view of the helm of Cigarette's 565 powered 38 Top Gun 90+ MPH. Photo credit: Cigarette Racing.

With No Feedback, steering torque is only felt when the steering wheel is turned. This system is more forgiving and best for a recreational performance boater. If you relax your grip on the steering wheel, the boat will continue on your selected course. It is important to have minimal free play or steering “slop” in any performance boat steering system.

Bravo One XR Sport Master ITS drives on the Cigarette 38 Top Gun 90+ MPH.

Mercury Racing sterndrive packages are equipped with power steering. The system requires actuation of external hydraulic steering cylinders.  Our Integrated Transom System (ITS) provides external power steering for Bravo One XR, Bravo One XR Sport Master and Bravo Three XR drive engine packages.  Power trim and steering cylinders are integrated in the M-series transom plate that comes standard with all engine packages featuring  NXT1, NXT6 and M8 sterndrives.

A view of a tie-bar connecting a pair of Mercury Racing NXT6 SSM drives on this 388 Skater. Photo credit: Naplesimage.

Performance boats with two or more outboards or sterndrives are rigged with both external power steering cylinders and tie bars. These components work together to minimize steering backlash and enhance drive stability.

Here is a good view of twin outboards with tie-bar and external power steering on this Spectre catamaran.

The units tied together (outboards or sterndrives) should be adjusted parallel to each other, at rest, where play in the steering can be adjusted to zero. Always be sure to have a qualified professional check to ensure your outboards or sterndrives and all related components are mounted securely.

A great view of NXT6 drives and 380S K-Plane trim tabs on this Statement vee bottom. Photo credit: Naplesimage.

Most larger outboard and sterndrive performance boats feature hydraulicly actuated K-Plane trim tabs. Tabs are used to assist getting the boat on plane and for hull attitude adjustments in varying seas. They can be used independently or in conjunction with outboard or sterndrive trim adjustments.

In Hi-Performance Boat Operation – Part 3,  I’ll interview Brad Schoenwald from the Tres Martin Performance Boat School. Brad and I will discuss basic performance boat operation.

A Nor-Tech catamaran boat powered by twin 850 SCi sterndrives. Photo credit. Florida Powerboat Club.

The boys from Sunsation enjoy their time on the water. Photo credit: Naplesimage.

With Spring in the air, the timing is right to review the basics of high performance boat operation to ensure you and your passengers have a safe and enjoyable Summer on the water. We include a Guide to Hi-Performance Boat Operation with every engine we ship. We encourage new and current owners to review the book and then get some in-boat driving lessons from your local high performance dealer. Those who do not have a qualified driving instructor in their area may want to consider Tres Martin’s Performance Boat School.

Our operation guide is packed with general performance boating information including a list of descriptive terms relating to propellers, hull types and overall boat performance.  Let’s first review the various performance boat hull configurations.

Vee-Bottom

View of a traditional vee-bottom hull.

Good view of a vee-bottom hull running is rough water. Photo credit: Naplesimage.

The traditional vee-bottom is the most common hull design. It offers good speed and a softer ride, especially in rough water. The softness of the ride depends on the angle of the “V”, called deadrise, radius of the keel line and the use of strakes.  If  your boating is mostly in larger bodies of water such as the Great Lakes or open seas, you may want to consider a boat with this hull type. The most recent change in this design over the past decade has been the incorporation of strategically placed notches or steps in the hull. The steps create air bubbles, raising the hull off the water on a drag-reducing cushion.

Can't get a better example of "riding on the pad" than this.

Vee-bottom hull with pad.

Some vee-bottom hulls feature a small flat area toward the rear of the keel called a pad. Similar to steps, the pad reduces the wetted surface area the hull runs on, increasing top speed with minimal affect on the ride quality. Mercury Racing offers a full-array of outboard and sterndrive propulsion options for the vee-bottom boater.

Tunnel

The outboard tunnel race boat hull design.

Shaun Torrente slams his F1 tunnel race boat through a turn. Photo credit: Paul Kemiel Photographics.

Outboard tunnel boats are the fastest turning race vehicles on earth. The sharp, 90-degree transfer where the tunnel sides meet the bottom of the sponsons helps the boat settle in the water as it enters a turn. The submerged sponsons make the boat turn as if it were on rails. It is common for drivers to experience 4-1/2 to 5Gs as they enter a turn at 120 and come out at 90+ mph. Obviously, only experienced racers should be considering this type of hull. Power options for outboard race tunnels include the Mercury 60 EFI FormulaRace and OptiMax 200XS SST.

Catamaran

Outboards are popular power source for catamarans.

525 EFI powered Talkin' Trash Super Cat Lite race boat. Photo credit: Paul Kemiel Photographics.

I like to refer to catamarans (or cats as they are often called) as tunnel boats on steroids. The design principal is similar. The boat rides on two sponsons or hulls separated by a tunnel. Air entering the tunnel generates lift as speed increases.The wetted surfaces and hull drag are reduced, for enhanced speed and ride quality. This design is not for the novice operator. The air entrapment hull is sensitive to engine trim, wind, and water conditions. In general, they produce a smoother and faster ride over a vee-bottom in calm to mild chop. The vee bottom is king in rough water. The fastest cats on the water today are powered by the venerable 1350 sterndrive. Our OptiMax 300XS is popular choice for those who choose outboard power for entry into the cat experience.

In Hi-Performance Boat Operation – Part 2: Rigging Fit & Function, I will review the important things to consider when preparing your new Mercury Racing outboard or sterndrive powered boat for the upcoming season.