I picked up a nice 2004 22’ Cruiser in the fall. It ran great w/ the original Honda 90 w/ a 15 pitch prop. The boat has trim tabs and I found them very useful in our limited usage last fall. We are getting her prepped and ready for the 2021 season. We purchased a 2020 Suzuki for a Whaler last spring and am going to swap outboards. I presume we will end up w/ about the same prop but had a question about the Honda setup. It had transom wedges installed and I wondered what the “perfect setup” for this boat w/ trim tabs. I understand the concept allowing the lower unit to tuck down a bit further w/ them pushing the bow down. I am not sure if the boat originally came w/out trim tabs and this was to push the bow down. We only have 10 or so hours on some pretty flat water experience w/ the Honda and the performance w/ spot on. I was hoping someone else hopefully with a Suzuki 90 could chime in on their setup as far as prop, motor height, with or without transom wedges on a boat w/ trim tabs. I am almost reluctant to swap outboards but am going to because we have a brand new one w/ two years warranty. Thanks for the input.
To wedge or not to wedge
- Thread starter ssilver
- Start date
jkidd
Active member
My 22 has a Suzuki DF115 there are no wedges I do have a Permatrim. The Suzuki motor is going to be geared lower than any other motor out there. So the prop won't be right there also usually a bigger diameter. At sea level I run a 17 pitch and at 3600 I run a 15 pitch they are both Solas Stainless. The motor is mounted in the second hole down.
Thanks for the info Jody, I wish the 115 was an option for me that would be nice when loaded up w/ gear and anglers. I have heard good things about the Permatrim and would hesitate to get one if I thought it would help my setup. Not sure the 90 would spin the 17 pitch if the boat was loaded. I will most likely try out the 19 Aluminum I already have and see what the numbers are and go from there. Good to hear what similar setups are using. That is the height of the Honda that was installed. We will be at Sea level. I checked out your album nice looking setup I like the outboard setback for the kicker and the window covers.
I would prefer the permatrim over transom wedges any day. The combination of Permatrim and trim tabs I consider an essential to get the best ride and performance.
I would start with the 19" pitch you have and see how it works. You may want to go to SS later. Always carry a spare prop, and the tools, to change it. I also carry a spare castle nut, cotter pins, thrust and plain washers. Occasionally these items are donated to "Davey Jones' locker"--so back ups are a good idea.
I would start with the 19" pitch you have and see how it works. You may want to go to SS later. Always carry a spare prop, and the tools, to change it. I also carry a spare castle nut, cotter pins, thrust and plain washers. Occasionally these items are donated to "Davey Jones' locker"--so back ups are a good idea.
Thanks for the input Bob, I am not against the Permatrim just did not realize it would benefit. I did notice holes in the leg of the Honda which indicates at some point a previous owner had some sort of hydrofoil or Permatrim. I was thinking maybe they started off w/ one of those and added tabs and pulled it off, who knows?. I was just looking at alum props they are inexpensive enough and I do plan on carrying spare prop and hardware. Can not wait to see how she runs w/ the suzuki looking forward. 