aging a used prop... does it matter?

[vetstudent]

I am looking at a used stilleto SS prop that came off an 89 mariner 40hp. The owner doesn't know how old the prop is but I'm assuming it's as new or newer than the motor. Would there be any difference in a stilleto triad prop that was made then as uposed to now. Would a new one be better (assuming the old one is near mint). I didn't know if design or durability had changed much.<br /><br />Thanks<br /><br />Brent

 

[Mark42]

Re: aging a used prop... does it matter?

You can start by getting the model number off the prop and looking it up on the Stilleto website or here on Iboats to see if it is still available. May be able to determine its age.<br /><br />Just a thought.<br /><br />Mark.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: aging a used prop... does it matter?

There have been some slight design changes very recently but what youre looking at is a very good prop. Like I mentioned in the other post, make sure it has not been reworked.<br /><br />When the Stiletto folks make any major changes to a certian prop design they usually change the series name.

 

[vetstudent]

Re: aging a used prop... does it matter?

I looked up the model # 12315 and it's the same as for a new one. I guess that tells me it's pretty recent. By re-worked you mean damaged and rebuilt... not a "re-hub" <br /><br />Also, If the stilletos are good props why are they cheaper than some comparable props? I mean this one new is about $210 and other props of that size by different manufacturers are $250 to $300.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: aging a used prop... does it matter?

The problem with a reworked prop is, if you dont know who didi it, it may not have been reworked with the proper pitch blocks. It'll look and measure good but it may lose bite or lift. The bottom line is to try it and see. For $100.00 bucks its worth a try. Like I said, even if it doesnt work it'll be worth $100 as long as its in good shape.<br /><br />As for the price, I think they do list for around $300 but what they actually sell for is up to each dealer.

 

[vetstudent]

Re: aging a used prop... does it matter?

I appreciate the advice! I talked with the guy selling it and he says it was purchased in the mid 90's and the boat wasn't used much after that. I feel reasonably sure that it's a good prop that's never been re-worked. It's a risk I'm willing to take considering the price.<br /><br />I'm posting some pics of my current POS alum prop that is in pretty bad shape... The pics probably don't do it justice because of the glare. Pretty much all three blades are wavy and have at some point (embarrassed to say) have been bent back into shape using a set of pliars!!! I just couldn't see paying $45 to re-work a cheap prop that was likely to hit a log or two in the near future.<br /><br />Do ya'll think that the condition of this prop is cutting down my rpm's a lot? I was wondering if a good SS prop that was two pitches higher (from 13 to 15) would turn similar rpms due to the extremely better condition. I know SS will generally turn a little higher rpm even in the same pitch because they're "sharper" I know the only way to find out is to go try it, but I'm looking for some educated/experienced guesses since a trial isn't possible for me right now.<br /><br />Thanks! You all are very helpful!<br /><br />

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[Dhadley]

Re: aging a used prop... does it matter?

Man are you going to be impressed with the Stiletto!!!<br /><br />BTW -- A ss prop will generally turn less rpm's than an aluminum because of the better bite. IE - the slip % goes down.

 

[vetstudent]

Re: aging a used prop... does it matter?

Yeah, I'm telling ya, that aluminum has seen some abuse... It's just the nature of where I have to run. I make frequent runs in areas that will often have "new logs" You really can't avoid them. The thing that saves my lower unit is that I NEVER run fast! I normally just barely keep it on plane through the areas that are shallower. At the speed I run the lower unit can take it fine but the aluminum prop... well you see the pics! That's why the prop is so terrible but isn't broken. It's just warped.<br /><br />I've got another 40 hp merc (formerly a "classic 50", so I've been told) that's my hunting boat. It sits on a 16'X52" Express (look at my avatar) It has quite a bit more power than my tracker. I've got a 13P vengeance on it and it really screams at WOT (don't know rpm's though) with a real quick whole shot. If I think the stilleto is slowing me down on the tracker I'll just swap it with the vengeance and see what happens The express is a lot lighter boat, and the 15p shouldn't slow it's whole shot at all. Either way, for the price, it can be a spare!!!!!<br /><br />I stand corrected on the stainless increasing the rpm's. My brain is a little tired! I have three finals next week!!!