The first thing I'd do is get an 8" jackplate and have it installed. Get a hydraulic unit if you can afford it. If not, get a manual unit that's easily adjustable. Set the plate at 3.5" below the pad and run it. Note how it comes out of the hole, the mid-range and top end as well as trim level, water pressure and RPMs. Then repeat at 3.25" and then 3.0" below the pad and establish where the sweet spot is. Probably 3.25" will be about right. The jp will provide overall handling improvements and will help with performance as well.Are you running a Yamaha prop? If so, what kind? 23M?
You need to get those RPMs up. 5400 is too low.
