Posted by JimM on October 21, 2002 at 06:12:54:
In Reply to: pickle fork.. performnace reports?? posted by scott on October 19, 2002 at 17:59:25:
I couldn't guess how fast, but I do know this: Racing hydros get a lot of their speed by modifying the engine. If there's ever a race in your area, go and try to get into the pits to talk to the racers. You'll see that the lower units have one gear: forward! No neutral and no reverse. The gearcase is very small diameter and the prop is very high pitch and razor sharp. You'll have to see what they use for exhaust stacks, I don't remember noticing (it's been a few years).
They take a while to get up on plane, but once up they FLY! I'm sure they mod the powerhead heavily also. Intake and exhaust ports can be streamlined and polished and the heads can be polished - this improves aspiration. I don't know how much you can increase compression ratio without destroying the engine.
What a great hobby! Wish I had time for it! You'll have a blast building and driving that little speedster. Just be sure to invest in proper safety gear - helmet and one of those fancy pfd's that gives you full protection. I'm guessing you're young - if so your parents would probably be happy to make the jacket a Christmas present.