RE: Prop mods
I'll get a sketch to remove tounge but Jamie hit it on the head. I'll remove 1/4" of tounge from the hub and have it tapered out by 85% of the edge towards the tip. I really don't like reducing diameter but remove just enough tounge to allow it to slip (not noticibly though) untill it gets up and going then it still has the pitch. If you have a big hull, full blade area props are good for "hole shots" as they have more bite.
Don't be afraid to give the drive/strut some positive angle. Set up may be different but I have seen some big increases in speed afterwards.