3 vs. 4 blade props

[ffchstr]

Hi Guys, <br /><br />I'm looking for a way to get a better hole shot out of my Sea Ray 195BR and was wondering if a 4 blade aluminum prop would work. I'd like to stay away from stainless, if possible, due to the fact that there are a lot of submerged/hidden rocks and/or logs in my area. And the idea of tearing up my outdrive doesn't really appeal to me....<br /><br />I've read up a little on this, but nothing that really covers whatI'm looking for. In fact, the only four blade props seem to be made for outboards. Which seems a little strange since they do make 4 blade stainless props....<br /><br />So, does anyone have any ideas? Anything?<br /><br />Thanks!<br /><br />Dave

 

[L Christopher]

Re: 3 vs. 4 blade props

ffchstr:<br /><br />I bought a 4 blade aluminum to replace a 3 blade OEM pro this sprimg. I was running a 14.25D X 21P 3 blade and went to a 14.0D X 20P 4 blade. I lost 1 or 2 MPH top end but got a better hole shot and the boat planes at a slower speed. Top end was not a issue for me because we use the boat for skiing, wakebording, & tubing. Both Mercury and Michigan Wheel offer 4 blade aluminum for strendrives for about $150 - $160. I can't put my hands on the paperwork & I can't remember the name of the place I bought it. I did a google search and made some calls from the search results.

 

[ffchstr]

Re: 3 vs. 4 blade props

Thanks Storm!<br /><br />Top end isn't that big of a deal for me either, as I do much the same things as you. <br /><br />Thanks Again!<br /><br />Dave

 

[L Christopher]

Re: 3 vs. 4 blade props

Dave:<br />If you are still interested, I found some paper work. I got my 4 blade aluminum from G & K Propella Services in Cinnaminson, NJ. I cannot find a telephone #. Do a google search and they will pop up. Good Luck.

 

[donie]

Re: 3 vs. 4 blade props

I bought a four blade from www.overtons.com and it works great with my Maxum 1800.<br /><br />Here is the URL: http://www.overtons.com/cgi-bin/overtons/order/items.cgi?spec+2AE6 <br /><br />I bought the 18 pitch and the boat jumps out of the hole. Top speed was limited to 36mph where it would go a lot faster with the standard prop.<br /><br />If you have a lot of shallow water with rocks the composite prop will protect your gearbox and break if it hits hard enough. But I reckon that it's cheaper than repairing a gearbox.<br /><br />At $89 you can't go too far wrong. Buy a spare...<br /><br />Regards<br />Donie

 

[ffchstr]

Re: 3 vs. 4 blade props

Thanks guys!<br /><br />I've done a bit more looking and found quite a few props out there ranging from $120-$160 (ish). Now I just have to decide which one...<br /><br />I've looked at the composite props, but I just can't help but think that they would still flex quite a bit during the "hole shot" and not be any better, overall, than 3-blade aluminum. Does anyone have any info on this? <br /><br />Thanks again guys!!<br /><br />Dave

 

[donie]

Re: 3 vs. 4 blade props

Hi again<br /><br />I use the composite prop on a Maxum 1800 and to be honest the boat has no problems getting out of the hole. My boat has a 135hp engine so it might not notice the prop so much. If you have higher hp then the composite will probraly offer less performance.<br /><br />just my 2c<br />Donie

 

[ffchstr]

Re: 3 vs. 4 blade props

Thanks Donie!<br /><br />To tell you the truth, I didn't even consider the horsepower difference. But thinking about it now, I can see where a few more ponies would add a little more torque...<br /><br />Thanks everyone! I think I'll be goin' with the 4-blade aluminum. Thanks a ton for your help!<br /><br />Dave