Yep. Prop for sure. I don't know anything about the laser prop but that 24 pitch is killing you for sure. Drop down to a 21 or do and try it.

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You can buy a new prop and gets the carbs cleaned all issues taken care of with the motor for $4,000. Id buy it.

To get the right prop you need to take RPM and Speed readings at every 500 RPMS. This will be crucial to determining what prop you need.

Thank y'all for all your help answering theses questions guys I appreciate it

It's between this boat or one other one not sure which one I'm gonna buy yet

Have to make my decision soon

Try putting Yamaha stickers on it.

Trust me if it was that easy I'd buy a case of stickers! Ima feel so weird fishing with a Merc

Those old astro's are known for weak transoms.

Prop
 

That motor will carry a 19 just fine.

Between those 2 choices I'd say the Express all day long.

The 24 laser is way too much prop. Probably 20 would do fine. Overall the laser is a good prop on those boats and don't be afraid of the Merc.

Looking more and more like the express will be the way to go the other one sold today so pretty much just have to decide if I really want aluminum again or if I want to hold out and find a bay boat!

Ive read some Mercs had Yamaha Powerheads around that ere.

4 strokes..