Hi Guys,
OK - here's what happened:
Couldn't go out to the gulf (too rough), so I had to settle for the Wacklawaha (not sure how to spell that)River - tide was very low - river is very small. Turned the key - didn't even know the motor was running (quieter than my Honda). No smoke! Shifted smoothly into both gears. Tilted the engine up and proceeded to get into deeper water. Hit the throttle - the boat leaped into plane in a couple of seconds. Trimmed the engine up - got 48 mph and 5600 rpm. Had 2 people in the boat (inc. me) 3/4 tank of gas. Handled beautifully - very pleased. Will send pix soon. Prop is a 14.8X17 aluminum.