Lack of power

[Norcalcat]

I am new to the Nautique world, however, I have skied behind many tournament boats.

I may be inaccurate, however, it feels like my Air Nauatique 216 LE does not have as much punch out of the hole as it should. Alos, I top out at 39-40 mph.

Any suggestions? prop is clear of any debris and I only have 114 hrs. The engine is a PCM Excalibur 5.7L V-8 330 hp. Mid engine direct drive.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[bubba]

What are you running for rpm's at WOT?

[Norcalcat]

Great question. I am not 100% sure. I think 5500.

I would have thought the direct drive would have more out of the hole. I am a 235 lb guy expert skiier and I am getting barried trying to get up. My buddies IO is about the same hole shot.

[swc5150]

The Air 216 is a large boat, and you're a big dude. From my limited experience in a 206 with tower and ballast tanks, it seemed the Excal had enough power to cover skiing in a tournament boat fashion, but the ZR6 would've provided that little extra. I've never driven or even ridden in a 216, but your WOT speed and rpms seem about in line. Unfortunately your boat may just be a little underpowered for your needs? The extra 160lbs and a little more hull in the water dropped the top speed of the 200 down 3 to 4mph compared to an equally equipped 196, so it doesn't take much to have an effect on these engines apparently. I have no doubt a fellow 216 owner will know the scoop and post it here.

[Nordicron]

Man I would think your boat would have plenty of pull. I have an 08 SAN 210 with the 5.7 343 engine and while I don't ski myself I have pulled two other skiers up plenty of times whom are both very good slalom skiers and they love it. One is my neighbor who weighs about 275lbs and I pull him up like nothing. Anyway maybe you should check out your prop it may not be cupped correctly.