optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

[Buckmaster101]

Hi all, Im new to this site, but have found some really good info around here.
My questions is: For a 05 maxum 19ft with a merc 5.0 that has 220 horse power, what would be the best prop. We do quite a bit of water sports(skiing and wake boarding) so hole shot is pretty important. I've tryed a 21 pitch 3 blade it's way to slow out of the hole. As well I cannot trim it up at all or the front really starts to bounce. Any info would be appricated. Thanks

 

[Dhadley]

Re: optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

Welcome!

You've given some pretty good info but we need a little more. What brand & style prop did you try? Sounds like it has a ton of bow lift. Most sterndrives will benefit more from a stern lifting prop. And / or trim tabs.

 

[Enigma]

Re: optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

I have the same boat but 2002 with a 5.0mpi 1.62 alpha 1. To give you an accurate assessment of what prop would be best it would be helpful to know your WOT rpms with current prop, is it stainless or ally, and drive ratio.
However I can give you an insight into mine. My boat had a 23" ally black max on it when I bought it. It suffered poor hole shot but very good top end WOT 5000rpm and indicated over 60mph on the guage (NOT GPS VERIFIED).
I bought a turnining point express ss 21" prop and hole shot improved WOT rpms now 4900 indicated 58-59mph on the guage (NOT GPS VERIFIED). This prop provided much smoother operation and is better all round than the black max especially noticable is the mid range performance which is very strong with this prop. However I still think I can do better so I am going to fit smart tabs in the next couple of weeks.
If I was doing more watersports I would be looking for a high five prop probably in a 19" but it may over rev at WOT. I have also seen good results on a friends bayliner 18ft 3.0 with a mercury enertia in a 20"pitch which seems to do it all rather well. I would like to try this prop on mine but it may over rev slightly or maybe not. There are so many variables engines, drives props, weight, hull design etc.. I think the only way is trial and error but it gets expensive especially in the UK as no dealers will let you try before you buy.
Another friend of mine also has a 19ft maxum but a 96 with 4.3 and 1.81 drive he has a 4 blade 21" prop and his hole shot is better than mine but top end is much lower 45mph at WOT ( I don't know the rpms).
I would be interested to hear how you get on.

 

[Buckmaster101]

Re: optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

I'm not sure what kind of prop it is. Yes I get way to much bow lift. At WOT I need two adults in the front.(400LBS) to be able to trim it up. Could you recommend a prop that would keep the bow down better. I would like a 4 blade, between 17 and 19 I believe but any recommandation would be considered. the boat is rated for 4400- 4800 RPM's. Thanks again for the help.

 

[Enigma]

Re: optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

TBH I would think the best way to prevent bowrise would be to fit smart tabs. I will let you know when Ive fitted mine in a couple of weeks

 

[ramster]

Re: optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

What are your current WOT rpm's? If they are in the range I would try a SS 4 blade 20", like an Apollo or Stilletto BayPro II, And also Smart Tabs do work wonders

 

[Dhadley]

Re: optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

A Bay Pro II would be an excellent choice.

 

[hwsiii]

Re: optimal prop for a maxum 5.0

Buckmaster, If I were you I would definitely buy what Dhadley recommends.


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