I've got a question with regard to jack plates. I have a manual 10" jack plate on my 19' Triton bassboat. I have a 150 Yamaha EFI powering the boat. In general, does moving the jack plate up or down improve hole shot? I'm asking the question because with full livewells, full gas tanks, and two "hefty" people in it, getting on plane requires someone to sit on the front deck. I know it is under powered (rated for a 175), but I was curious if moving the jack plate will improve hole shot performance. Thanks in advance.

Post down in the Boats & Motors Forum---Steve will get you what you need.

All depends on where you have it now, RPMs, Prop size/type and several other factors. As mentioned before, check the section below and/or go to BBC and check "setups by Todd"
http://bbcboards.zeroforum.com/zeroforum?id=11
In my mind, Todd Morgan is THE BEST in the business for bassboat set ups and very willing to answer your set up questions online.

Todd is money!

check with Steve at Steve's Custom Props at lake Fork. He got me going in the right direction to get my rig dialed in just right.

Do you have a holeshot plate? If not you can see a huge difference with one on a 10 inch setback.

you should consider selling/trading your 150 for a 175, or 200 if your boat is rated for it. i have heard of people putting 175 or 200 powerheads in their 150s for more power without replacing the entrie motor, but i dont know how that works.

A 150 on a TR-196 isn't going to be a fast boat, but shouldn't be a dog either. I would start with setting the height prop shaft height to 3 1/2 inches below pad. You probably should be running a 23 pitch prop.

But, as the other guys have said, call Steve at Steve's props, and he will tell you what you need. He's a really good guy.

I agree with Michael, have you considered a 4-blade prop??

It will give a little more UUUMPP!! out of the hole, proper set back and height along with the correct pitch is critical for top perfromance with a heavy loaded boat, for safety if nothing else.