2002 Utopia 205 200 hp DFI tops out around 32 mph 5500 rpm

[Ace205]

This is my first boat and I've owned it for a few weeks. I was hoping someone could provide some advice on some maintenance items that could improve performance. The boat seems to run fine, starts right up, but is a bit slow to plane and tops out around 32 on the speedo (didn't test on GPS) and 5500 rpms. It also feels like I need to push the throttle forward pretty far before the boat reacts. I learned the powerhead was replaced and has about 140 hours on it but I am not sure about the maintenance history.

I am not very handy but was wondering if there are any fairly basic changes I could implement myself this summer before shutting the boat down in the Fall and having it serviced by a professional. After reading a bunch of posts, it seems the water separating fuel filter and port side temperature sensor are things to consider. I had the spark plugs replaced already.

Thanks in advance, I appreciate all the knowledge spread on this forum.

 

[Dr Honda]

Since it looks like you have the 200 Opti engine... the port side temp sender itsn't a major issue.

As far as the point of "Moving the throttle before it reacts"... that's normal. Since it's a jet boat, it makes pressure exponentially. SO... going from 0% to 50%, is equivalent moving 50% to 70%. (if that makes sense) AND... since it's all pressure driven, opposed to just propeller driven... yes... it takes a bunch of throttle to make some pressure. Only at very low RPM's does it react to "Propeller" like throttle.

32 sounds a little slow... but if you aren't feeling cavitation... then I would just look for high clearance in the pump. But after reading your post a couple times... it really doesn't sound like anything is wrong, other that slow speed... but before even worrying about that... check it with a GPS. The factory speedos are known to read wrong as the paddle wheel wears.

 

[Ace205]

Thanks for the input. It doesn't feel like cavitation. She runs smooth but hits the top end when I feel like there should be more throttle. I expect to get it out this weekend and test it on GPS.

You or others may have mentioned before that most boat mechanics can work on Merc engines or sea doo jet drives but not both. It sounded silly to me at the time but I experienced it firsthand three times already - I've owned the boat for 1 month.

 

[dblackstone]

if you dont have a gps there are plenty of phone aps that show speed.