RE: How to make it faster???
Definitely have it measured on a Tachometer and try to get it to about 3 to 4 hundred rpm below max with the prop you choose when in it alone and nearly an empty tank. 500 rpm below red line is real good with a safety margin too.
One of the easiest ways to get a little better speed is to try some shims on the top of the transom to raise the motor. Try 1/2" at first, then 3/4", then 1". Keep increasing until in rough water and turning the motor will race a bit from getting some air near the prop. Then go down to the last one you tried just before the one that 'cavitates'. <font size=4>DO THIS!</font id=size4> It works real good. Gives you faster hole shots and almost makes it impossible to porpoise with the tilt adjustment. I have done it with small 8 horse motors and up to 50 horses with great results.
Fuel economy is very noticable when it is just right. I've gotten about 10 mph increase in some cases.