"I have a 1980 Bayliner Explor
"I have a 1980 Bayliner Explorer with an AQ120B and a 15x15 prop, and if I am alone in the boat with the bow down I can get up to about 18 mph. The engine is turning at about 4400. But because the noise is so great and the boat doesn't handle well, I don't hold that speed for very long. One time I blew the cap off the heat exchanger. The boat seems more comfortable at about 4000 and 14 - 15 mph. I think my wife is more comfortable when we are doing 3800 and about 13 mph. At 3600 rpm we do 11 - 12 mph.
Right now, though, the stern drive bellows, universal assembly and water intake apparatus are being changed and after that comes the shaft bearing."