4-Tec 155hp have enough power in altitude?

[quazar]

Hello,

I am thinking of buying a 2003 Sportster 4-Tec 155HP for use in San Diego and Big Bear Lake. I cannot get a definative answer on if this boat will have enough power in the altitude to pull a skier. I know there is a 215 horse version but the 155 horse is the one that is for sale.

The boat has a performance prop but that is it. Is there any plug swaps that can be done to help in the mountains?

Thanks for any help!

 

[JoeZ]

Out of curiosity, what altitude? I remember reading something a couple years ago when I use to be into drag racing that being a mile up you lose about 25% power? Just assuming that is the case, that is about 38hp lost, making it 117hp. That is about as much power as the 951 engines (it is late, I could be wrong), which still are ample to pull a skier.

If you are really worried, you could always get an '04 RXT/RXP

 

[seadoosnipe]

Jets!

I know in a natural aspirated engine (carbs), the idea is to re-jet your carbs for the higher altitudes, due to less oxygen to burn the fuel.
You look at the mile high drag track in Colorado. Those racers go from sea level racing to high altitude racing with minor losses in horsepower, but not necessarily performance. So I believe it will be all up to the way the fuel system is tuned to handle the atmospheres oxygen levels.
:hat:

 

[Wheels & Waves]

There should be no problem skiing behind it. The fuel injection will compensate somewhat to the atmospheric conditions. Heck, I've skied behind the old 110hp Challenger with no problem. The 4Tec has more torque and a much larger pump too. I'm sure you may be able to try it first......