Gambler w/ 200 SuperMag consistent Hub Failure/Exhaust Leak/Timing

[MURRAYGAMBLERSUPERMAG]

I have a 94' Mariner SuperMag 200 EFI, 20in Torque Master (OG205121) on my Gambler Intimidator 193 that has spun 2 hubs in open water at 5k-6k in the last 4 months (6-8 trips). Prop is a mid 90's 25p Trophy with a circular internal barrel w/ a pressed hub. I can't replace w/ a Flo Torq. I've had the boat 16 months and have put maybe 20hrs on it. Immediate post purchase, injectors were flow tested/cleaned/calibrated, new fuel filter, fresh NGK plugs, fresh CC Carbon reeds, new fuel lines, full LU service including fresh seals throughout, and new thermostats. Motor is unmodified/stock, boat has been garage kept since new and owned by older gentleman that I dont suspect got after it.


I have been told via a Gambler FB group that is suspected that higher exhaust temp could be cooking the hubs, is this accurate? It was also suggested that my timing could be too advanced near WOT causing the increased temp. I have noticed that the water that it pees out seems to be hotter than it used to be, and could potentially be taking longer to start peeing but both of these I cannot confirm to be 100% true vs what it was 6 months ago (I just don't fish enough).

I also noticed a burnt oily film on the back side of the water jacket flowing down from thes 2 bolts, would this indicate an exhaust leak or? Any correlation to the hubs failing? See below picture and click for full size, not sure how to rotate but the left side is the top.


Any insights would be appreciated, thanks. Also if anyone is near Lake Murray and is willing to let me try some props I'd appreciate it, currently running 6-6.1k @ 75/76.