2,3 or 4 blades

[searay3]

What are the advantages/disadvantages of the different prop configurations? I have read all the hype by the various manufacturers, but what is the real story. Been thinking of going to a four blade SS from a three blade aluminum. Other than the material, what would I gain/lose. 21ft searay 4500 pounds. Currently running a 19 pitch. I have also run 15 thru 21 at 14 and 15 dia. 19 seems the best for overall performance.

 

[JB]

Re: 2,3 or 4 blades

Fewer blades make less drag, more blades get more bite.<br /><br />Best top end would be from a 2 blade SS prop but holeshot would be poor.<br /><br />Best holeshot from a 4 or 5 blade, but top speed would probably suffer.<br /><br />Three blades is usually the best compromise. SS drags less than AL.

 

[LubeDude]

Re: 2,3 or 4 blades

Tell us what you are hoping to gain.

 

[searay3]

Re: 2,3 or 4 blades

Thanks JB. Thats what I needed to hear. So many opinions and variables is true enough, but that little paragraph fills in all the gray areas...

 

[searay3]

Re: 2,3 or 4 blades

Went to a 4 blade SS 14.25x19 Solas. 4500 lb searay (i/o and this should be on the i/o postings....) 4.3 mercruiser 205 hp. 1.65 ratio sterndrive alpha1. Holeshot: excellent Top Speed:42 MPH (not knots, gps) 4600 rpm. Very satisfied so far. Would recommend for a heavy boat with people on board. By the way, very good cruiser at 30-35 mph for mileage.