Torque at high speeds.

[LaRoper]

Guys, I'm having issues with a lot of torque to the right at close to top speed. Motor is a 250 Opti XS pro on a 20 ft boat. I have hyd steering, it doesn't move with the torque but trying to turn to the left takes more than to the right. I have a jack plate, not sure of the setting right now, but I guess my question is should I raised the height on the plate or adjust the trim tab? This is a brand new boat and I only have maybe 3 hours on it and have not made any adjustments. I can trim down and remove the torque, but the speed falls off. 
Any suggestions? Maybe get the plate set first then adjust the trim tab. 
Thanks!
LR

[Polaris425]

Yeah sounds like you might want to raise the JP just a hair, then you can run trimmed down a little and should be able to reach the same speed w/o the torque. At least it makes sense in my head.

[Buzbait88]

raise the plate.  My boat doesn't even have a trim tab.  At WOT full trim with the plate at the right height there shouldn't be much noticeable torque.  I had a 93 champion with cable steering and could darn near steer with 1 finger when the plate was at the right height.  Hydraulic steering doesn't really allow you to feel exactly what's going on like the old cable steer did.

[Mike Bush]

What is your setup? Boat and prop? You know your prop to pad measurement? What is WP and RPM at that setup?

Could be as simple as a slight bump up in the JP...or it could be a few other things to check. Some boats/props like to run higher...some lower.

Also, you will always get more torque one way because of the direction the prop spins, you are essentially fighting the spin of the prop one way...and then going with the spin the other way.

[LaRoper]

Thanks everyone for the Replys.
Mike,
I have not had a chance to measure the prop to pad yet. Boat is a Nitro Z8, 250 Mercury, prop is 25 pitch Tempest.  WP was around 12 to 15, and was running rpms at around 5000 to 5200. I was thinking it may be setting to far down. I will measure everything when I return home, currently at work. No fishing for ME! But soon. 

[Mike Bush]

Let me know what you have going on. You should be running 5700-6k with a 25p Tempest on that boat/motor. That setup is a 75mph boat....based on your numbers I'm guessing you were running about 65ish.

You running a tempest or a tempest plus?

Your WP is ok if you are only turning around 5k. It will increse as the Rs go up. Should be 17-25 once you get it dialed in.

[LaRoper]

Mike,
I sure will. I don't feel like I'm getting the lift on the front ends as much too. I had it pretty much to the floor, RPMs may have gotten to 5400, Maybe. I think the prop is just a Tempest. But as soon as I get back home and put a measuring stick to it I will let you know. Guy at the dealership said they come set low from the factory.
Thanks for your help....
LR

[Buzbait88]

You should be a lot faster with that prop.  The Z8's are fast, I'm surprised with that prop you aren't turning over 6000 RPMS.  Trying raising the jackplate, but just keep an eye on water pressure.  Make sure you don't raise it to high.  Another problem with high torque could be you are over trimmed, but with your numbers and stuff there is obviously something else going on.

[Mike Bush]

The goal in the end is to have it on the floor, trimmed to max...or fairly close and be at optimum speed, WP and Rs.

You have a manual plate or hydro? If manual, its a mild headache to get right. If thats the case, start at 3.5" prop shaft to pad. If you need help, just let me know.

If you have a hydro plate, different story.

Actually, just give me a text and we can figure out time to talk. 319-601-9471. Much easier to explain over the phone. Im fairly free to talk...but text first just to check.

[LaRoper]

Mike,
Its a manual plate. I won't be able to chat for another week at least, I way overseas at work.
LR

[Mike Bush]

Sounds good. Let me know when you get back. Give me a text.

[LaRoper]

Wanted to let everyone how much I appreciate Mike Bush!  We discussed at length my on going issue. Measured out at 3 1/4 inches prop to pad. Going to finish full break in on motor, get another prop then do the fine tuning. Thanks again Mike!   
Blake

[Mike Bush]

No problem at all. Give me a shout when you get that broke in all the way.

[steve76]

 Mike is always willing to help people out, he is a great asset to this site. Thanks for what you do Mike!