got a 31hp gtr a few days ago, took it for a run and it idled at 1650-1700. I thought this was way too high and essentially a "clutch dump" every time i put it in gear, so i lowered the idle to 1200, this made it kinda hard to start and now when i put it in gear even in the just plain water with no mud it will kill unless i idle it back up. What do you guys have your gator tails idled at? i am running a big blade on a 20x44 500lb boat.

I idle at 1000.

To keep it from killing when you engage the clutch, try adjusting the tab on the governed idle spring (should be similar to the 35- white spring on the linkage). Its a minor adjustment with a pair of pliers.

I had to do it when I installed a more aggressive prop. Bring a glove (so you don't burn your hand on the muffler) and do it in the water so you can test it immediately.