40/50hp Merc 3-cylinder 2-stroke mods ?

[FastCat04]

Hey looking for some input please.
Recently purchased a 2018 'Edge' 15' alum boat that came with a 2004 Merc 40ELPTO ( Ser# 0T899507, 3-cylinder 2 stroke ). Boat runs good at 42mph with 1 person and full gear. ( Prop is 10.25 x 16-G ). Did some snooping around under the cowl and it actually has a 2008 50hp powerhead on it. ( Ser 1B728726 ). Attenuator ( air box ) is removed as is the oil injection system. Went to Merc site and found that everything but the reed stops are the same between the 40hp & 50hp versions, and the 60hp has bigger carbs and different block part #...but crank, rods, pistons, intake, reeds, ign...are all the same. So....short of doing the '4-bolt tune-up' ( 60hp powerhead ) ....what's a good 'next step' to make this 50hp stronger & faster? I know carbs are step 1....but suggestions/experienced advice etc is welcomed....

Thank you in advance !

Don

[XstreamVking]

Verify timing to be sure where its at. Might need hi test fuel if bumped. But, sounds like it's running good though. I have done the same things to our 2006 50 merc on my sons skiff. They run so much better w/o the airbox. That's the biggest improvement I saw.

[FastCat04]

Thank you !!!!