4200 rpm WOT

shorenomore

Cadet
Joined
Apr 2, 2002
Messages
15
Okay, I got my prop (14.25 x 22 4 blade Stiletto Stainless) and mounted it to my 1991 Evinrude 155hp commercial. It is running 4200 rpm at WOT. My question to the experts is should I drop to a 20 or an 18 pitch. I am told operatingrange is 4500-5500 rpm and the test was w/ 2 people and almost no load. Your opinions are greatly appreciated.
 

Hooty

Rear Admiral
Joined
Oct 2, 2001
Messages
4,496
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

Hey shorenomore,<br />As a rule of thumb, 1" pitch = 200 rpm so based on what you've said, I would drop to a 18" and if ya have access to a 16", I'd try that.<br />I prefer operating the engine in the upper range of its rpm band. I have an old 200 hp 'rude that I turn 5800-6000 rpm (and it'll turn tighter) and it loves it. Keep us briefed.<br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty
 

Bob_VT

Moderator & Unofficial iBoats Historian
Staff member
Joined
May 19, 2001
Messages
26,064
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

4 blade is a real gripping prop. Usually the 4 and 5 blades are designed for heavier loads. Try a 3 blade IF you can borrow one. A 155hp should spin the prop you have at WOT w/o problem. Are you sure it is the prop???? If you borrow a smaller (lower) pitch this will help diagnose it better. Are your carbs opening all the way? I would check all these things before you invest $$$ in props.<br /><br />Bob
 

round2it

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Aug 27, 2001
Messages
49
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

I was told by a dealer that when you prop a boat, it should be with one person, half tank of gas, and lite load. His reasoning was so u wouldn't over rev engine with a lite load. I was questioning my 200 hp, carbed motor. Only turning about 5400 or slightly less with 2/3 people with full tank of gas, 70 gals. I think I need to drop down in pitch altho he said I'm propped about right.
 

shorenomore

Cadet
Joined
Apr 2, 2002
Messages
15
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

Thanks for the replies. I do plan on having much heavier loads (more people, tons of fish) but I wanted to prop it initially for the lightest I would normally be. I bought the 4 blade 22 pitch and I will be able to get one exchange. It almost sounds like I should go for a 16? As for the carbs, the guy I bought it from assured me it was linked and synched and I must admit it runs excellent from first turn of the key till I shut her off.
 

shorenomore

Cadet
Joined
Apr 2, 2002
Messages
15
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

One more thing, how can I tell exact rpm? I bought a guage from West Marine and set it but the selector knob on the back seemed infinately adjustable so how do I know if I'm revving what I'm seeing?
 

Beernutz

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 14, 2001
Messages
287
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

I've been using Stilettos for years, and love 'em. Haven't tried the 4-blade variety yet, though.<br /><br />Stiletto uses a "progressive pitch" design technology, and it really works. When replacing a stock prop, I've had to drop as much as 3 inches on the pitch in order to get the WOT RPMs up to par. This results in amazing punch out of the hole, slightly higher mid-range revs (1-200), and much-improved throttle response throughout the range. They'll hold their bite better when jacked up and trimmed out, too.<br /><br />I'm fortunate to have a dealer who allows me to try out new props before deciding to keep them. It has brought him a lot of business, though.<br /><br />Hope this helps.
 

Beernutz

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 14, 2001
Messages
287
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

Oops, hit a wrong key. That should read as a 4-inch drop on the pitch.
 

Dhadley

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Feb 4, 2001
Messages
16,978
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

Keep in mind that with a 4 blade prop you can run it much higher on the transom than a 3 blade. IE; raise your X dimension. You will increase your holeshot and top RPM. You wont get the 1500 RPM you are looking for but you will gain some preformance. <br /><br />Before you exchange your prop get an accurate tach. Stiletto props are great props but I think the diameter is 13 3/4 unless you have a Turbo (made by the same folks) which has a larger diameter. Both are excellent props.<br /><br />Good luck!
 

shorenomore

Cadet
Joined
Apr 2, 2002
Messages
15
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

Dhadley, sorry for my ignorance, but are you saying that I can raise the entire motor on the transom to have less motor in the water? If so, how high can I go in relation to the bottom of the boat. What part of the motor should be even with the bottom of the boat?
 

Dhadley

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Feb 4, 2001
Messages
16,978
Re: 4200 rpm WOT

Yes you can raise the motor on the transom. Usually with a 4 blade you can raise it so high you need a jack plate. Try raising it a little at a time and watch the water pressure. <br /><br />Good luck!
 
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