85 Ski Nautique repairs/upgrades

My sister and I own an 85 Ski with the 454 option that we use on Bear Lake, Utah. After twenty years of nothing but tune ups it is due for a little TLC. This spring I've done the usual fluids/impeller/cleaning, but I've also changed to electronic ignition. I just received my ACME 13"x14" prop. I have changed out the belts and some of the hoses. I replaced the old raw water filter system with the Sherwood system because the stock bowl had cracked. After the snow we received yesterday melts I'll get out and see how she runs. The next project after that will be new intake manifold with carburator rebuild or replacement. Any suggestion on intake manifold/carb? I was looking at the Edelbrock Performer.

I had to post because my wife just doesn't understand how beautiful the new prop is or how interesting all of these improvements are.

spe123, welcome. The performer manifold would be a good choice. Certainly wouldn't hurt it. Start with a good carb rebuild if you are mechanically inclined. Some guys go out and buy a new carb but I feel you can't beat a good rebuild as long as you haven't had any significant issues to speak of. Parts of carbs do wear out after time, but the rebuild is really cheap for a starter.

I also agree about the wife understanding or better yet, not understanding. Mine is really good most of the time. She understands completely about anything that needs repair and/or replacement due to normal wear and tear or age etc. She doesn't have a clue about performance enhancement add-ons just for the sake of improving performance and/or reliability. Post away, we'll listen and understand completely.

BFN, im upset that you told your wife before me that you got the prop, i wouldve made you feel better and at least i wouldve acted excited...eric