Blackjack speeds

[lcl1103]

Just bought a used BJ224, but not seeing the performance numbers many guys on this forum have posted about. Powered by a 250 Verado and a 21 Tempest prop. Only had a chance to run twice. Once by myself, WOT only saw 55mph at 5900 rpm. Second time was with 4 people, including me, and could only get to 50 mph and 5500 rpm. I do have a t top, which I know slows it down, but seems like I should be able to get a little more top end. Any BJ owners out there have any suggestions? Thx

[sniper3726]

Could be several things. First, may be something causing motor to lose power .
Second, motor may be too low. Third , may be over propped. Or could be a combination of more than one .
You should be turning almost 6400 with a light load. I would try a lower pitch prop if you think there are no power loss issues

[latravcha]

It should not be over propped with a 21. The first thing I would do is try raising the jack plate or put it a hole higher. you should be able to turn more RPM with that motor.

[Montauk17]

A larger diameter prop will also help,tempest was designed for bass boats. A mercury mirage was designed for bay/offshore boats. The larger diameter will lift the stern more and you will see better performance all around. They are also the best on fuel,you will notice you will have to give the engine less throttle to make things happen.

[lcl1103]

Thanks for the replies. Hopefully I can get back on the water this weekend and spend a little more time adjusting the trim and jack plate. I actually have a Mirage prop I can test out also.

[wtretrievers]

This is 24'? If you want more than that out of a 24' boat with a 250 you're looking for something that isn't there! 55 is pretty damn good for a 24' boat & that hp!

[Raymond]

BJ only comes in 22'

[wtretrievers]

Originally Posted by Raymond

BJ only comes in 22'

Looking at the BJ224....still a 22' it's a bay boat not a race boat

[DA COVE]

i run the 250 opti on mine with a 20" powertech. wot with 4 people, loaded, 54mph. wot just me loaded 1/2 tank fuel 57-58mph. great holeshot. cruize it @ about 40mph @ 4300rpm. With the right prop and everything else just right you should be able to see 60. once past that you start giving up to much holeshot IMO. like wtr said, It's a bay boat..

[lcl1103]

I totally agree on the "its a bay boat" theory. I' not looking for 60+ speeds. Just want to maximize the performance that should be attainable. I'm coming from a 23' bay bolt, which is a great boat, but a heavier boat. I know I'll be happy with the BJ.....been wating one for a while....first trip produced a limit of trout on friday. Hope thats a sign of things to come

[skeeter77346]

Contact George Haydel at Metro Boating in Harvey. Super good guy and he has owned a number of BJs with Verados as his personal boat. He can maximize your rig's performance. I have used his shop for Merc and Yamaha rigs and they are very, very good.

[rk3]

I have a Blackjack with a 225 opti pro xs and a laser 21 prop. I can not get over 5500 rpm with 3/4 to full fuel. Top I have reached with two people and loaded to fish is 52. I tried a Mirage on it and got a bit better performance.
Montauk, do you at a boat shop?