Some boat motors run like weary flatlanders in the mountains. But there are some solutions.

Q: I plan to take my 1997 outboard into the mountains for a few days. I've been told I should re-jet the carbs to adjust for the altitude. What would happen if I didn't?

Mike Dubinski
Waukesha, Wisconsin

A: Carbureted engines will run better at higher altitude with proper tuning, but you won't damage your motor if you don't; it'll just be a bit sluggish. That's another advantage of the new DI and EFI four strokes — they have computers that automatically reset fuel and air mixture to match the altitude.

Q: I have a Volvo Penta 4.3-liter stern-drive and want a stainless-steel prop. The current prop is 14.25 x 23 and turns 4,200-4,600 rpm. My goal is to improve the hole shot without losing too much top speed. Will the upgrade work?

Janice Lent
Via e-mail

A: The first rule in re-propping is to keep your engine running at the specified wide-open throttle rpm. Specs for your engine are higher (4,800 rpm) than you currently turn. Select a prop that lets your engine reach its natural top speed. A stainless prop in the same dimension might do it while increasing speed and acceleration. If it doesn't, drop down to a 21-pitch and save yourself some heartache.

Q: I just bought a 1977 Steury, a 16-footer with an OMC stern-drive, and quickly learned that no one wants to repair it. I talked with a guy in Florida who reconfigured a similar boat into an outboard. Would you recommend this?

Ken Donaldson
Goldsboro, North Carolina

A: If the transom is solid, you could easily close the transom hole and mount an outboard bracket over it. Armstrong Aluminum in Stuart, Florida, makes one that will meet the deadrise angle of your transom. It will also add flotation and give great performance benefits by getting the engine farther back from the turbulence of the hull.

Q: The pickup pump for the livewell on my pontoon is in the motor well. When the boat is moving, the livewell runs dry. How can I set it up to operate while moving?

Mike Killing
Grand Rapids, Michigan

A: Many pumps are mounted on a bracket welded to the bottom of the pontoon. If you don't want to add one, you could bolt a raw-water pickup to the bottom of the motor box (which usually skims the water) and pipe it to the livewell as a backup.