Engine Issues - No Top end or hole shot

[Bazel]

We just bought a 1990 Sport Nautique (for a great price) and fully understood that it is a 30 year old boat with issues. The engine was rebuilt 2 years ago and only had about 20 hours on it before sitting for until now. I have it running but do not get much power out of it. The hole shot is weak and tops out at 29/30 with only 3300 RPM. Any thoughts on what to look at or what should be expected. It is a 351 engine.

Thanks
Will

[NautiqueJeff]

What prop is on the boat?

[Bazel]

I will need to check in the morning. Any recommendations?

[functionoverfashion]

Could definitely be that simple. Check for some stamped numbers in the part of the prop near the driveshaft, maybe under the nut that holds the prop on.

It could also need a tune-up, even as simple as a distributor cap and rotor. Do you know if this has points ignition or some kind of electronic ignition, or electronic distributor? Pictures will tell us a lot.

[Bazel]

Thanks for the feedback and guidance. The prop is a 14x16. I have attached some pics for any thoughts. I really appreciate the help

[Bazel]

Image of the engine

[functionoverfashion]

That prop is probably original to the boat. On one hand, it would be a nice upgrade to get a new Acme or other CNC prop, but on the other, I'd want to be sure it was running perfectly before spending $400 - unless you want to make that upgrade anyway, which in my opinion, is totally worthwhile.

If you want a new prop, you can find a match here: https://www.wakemakers.com/nautique-...oat-propellers - Acme 422 or 654 most likely - and I would order one from Delta Props, they're a site sponsor and have good pricing, offering a discount for PN members.

In the second pic, can you take the cap off and flip it over, then take a pic of the inside of it and the inside of the distributor? You don't have to disconnect any of the wires, but there are two small screws on opposite sides that hold it down - you can see one of the screws in the pic you posted, it's silver in color on top and is phillips head or probably 1/4" nut driver. That will tell us what condition those components are in, and what kind of ignition you have.

[hal2814]

Checking the cap is a great idea. You may also want to check the fuel system. That fuel line has been replaced. I wonder why. They may have just damaged it when rebuilding or there may have been previous fuel issues. There should be a clear tube running from your fuel pump to the carburetor. Check that for fuel. If it has fuel in it, your pump is failing. You may also replace your fuel filter. There’s also a metal screen on the carburetor inlet. You may want to check if that is clogged but be VERY careful with those fittings. On the carburetor itself you may want to check that your choke is working, the secondaries are opening like they should, and the accelerator pump is working. Those could all cause potential issues at above idle speeds.

EDIT: Oh. The clear tube I mentioned is in the pic. Follow it to the pump and have a look there for fuel.

[Bazel]

Thanks, I can't wait to take a look at things tonight. I really appreciate the advice. Updates to come.

[Bazel]

[Bazel]

Any advice on the firing order?