[Chris Burkard]

The 5.7 was built in two different horsepower versions. The standard 5.7 was 275 HP and the HO version was 330 HP. If you have the HO version @ 330 HP, the Maximum RPM range is between 4800 and 5200 RPM. If you are reaching 5000 RPM at WOT, then you are smack dab in the middle. According to the Crusader website, you can cruise the engine up to 4000. With all that being said, 17x17s seem too small for your engine package. According to my figures, you should be over-revving with those props.

I pulled an old performance sheet from 2000 for a 2900 Open with 5.7 HOs and Tiara was using 19x22s #7 Cup. The are showing at 3600 RPM, 23.4 MPH. WOT was 4725 RPM, which is a tad low.

I would call a good prop shop and give them all that information and see what they say.

Let us know how it works out.