Lower unit water pick up scoops vs block off top four holes?

**LakeFever** · 09-24-2018, 07:30 AM

Going to stick with the stock lower until I break 80mph and have read up on blocking the top four intake holes or using the mercury scoops. Asking the experienced here what you all think is best?

**Hirk** · 09-24-2018, 12:28 PM

I just did both and found I could run higher with the scoops and didnt have to worry about sucking air trimming or low water pressure. I ran 77-78 with the plugs but only ran with the scoops once due to finding a cle and switching to it. Handling was good on my xb2003 other then needing more driver input at wot with the stock case. I have the scoops if you need a set.

**rochelle howell** · 09-24-2018, 12:50 PM

Could you you post pics of scoops before and after installation for those of us who have never seen 'em? Thanks!

**Hirk** · 09-24-2018, 01:31 PM

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**Dave Strong** · 09-24-2018, 01:48 PM

The 2.5 Torquemaster case is cast with the top 3 or 4 holes missing. Was able to even higher with scoops on my TM case.

Dave

**Radiant** · 09-24-2018, 02:10 PM

So would the top 4 holes plugged, and scoops installed be the way to go?

**LakeFever** · 09-24-2018, 04:44 PM

I was thinking the same, block the top four and run those plate scoops. The guy who was telling me about em had plastic ones only covered the top holes but the plate scoops with top blocked seems good. With a WP gauge test and see I guess

**rock** · 09-25-2018, 07:49 AM

There would be no reason to block off any holes with scoops.

Rock

**XstreamVking** · 09-25-2018, 09:30 AM

Don't be surprised if the scoops get stuff packed in them. Vegetation and small sticks is what I found in mine when I ran them. Keep them clean. Also idle temps went up slightly.

**LakeFever** · 09-25-2018, 12:29 PM

Originally Posted by XstreamVking

Don't be surprised if the scoops get stuff packed in them. Vegetation and small sticks is what I found in mine when I ran them. Keep them clean. Also idle temps went up slightly.

Hmmmm some of the water I visit is weedy, good tip. Maybe I'll sort out a screened intake cover or something. I was thinking of alcohol fuel filter mesh maybe in a small cage that holds the scoops and the screen positioned to shed weeds away but not impede water flow. Some testing in order when i get to that stage I guess. Theres always something to learn, thanks for the info gents

**tlwjkw** · 09-25-2018, 04:44 PM

if your junk is capable of bigger speeds than 80+ (way it sounds to me) you have targeted then don't jack with it and bite tha bullet.. if its not, plugged or scoops will get ya by... jmo.

**Wingnut0302** · 10-01-2018, 08:08 AM

Where does one find these scoops?

**LakeFever** · 10-01-2018, 05:20 PM

Originally Posted by tlwjkw

if your junk is capable of bigger speeds than 80+ (way it sounds to me) you have targeted then don't jack with it and bite tha bullet.. if its not, plugged or scoops will get ya by... jmo.

I'm putting together another mota which will have a Bobs and whatnot which will make this moot. In the meantime Im messing with a 2.0L that I'm working up a bit so these scoops may find their home next season

Originally Posted by Wingnut0302

Where does one find these scoops?

I was going to make some, when I get there I'll post up what I come up with