Another prop question

[Dieter]

Hey guys havent been on in awhile hope everyone is well. I have a 2002 Four Winns Horizon 180 with the 4.3 merc. Original owner had a stainless steel prop put on in a 14 1/2 x 21P. Boat empty is around 2200lbs. Average 2800lbs. I achieved 38 mph on gps, at +or- 4000 rpms. Mine seems kinda slow outa the hole with a 4 to 5 people in it, and we like to ski quite a bit. Just seeing if a 19 pitch would be better and if i need to change the diameter. It has been tuned up this year, running strong so just wondering if a new prop will help. Also looking for an aluminum this time around just in case it hits something. Thanks for your input.

 

[Dieter]

Re: Another prop question

So does anyone have about the same boat for comparison? thanks

 

[Silly Seville]

Re: Another prop question

I think you would be fine with an aluminum 3 blade 14 1/2" by 19p prop.

 

[Dieter]

Re: Another prop question

ok thanks for the info. thats what i was leaning towards, just didnt want to put money down on something and it not work out.

 

[choppywaters]

Re: Another prop question

We're trying a new prop today (if my Wife ever gets home!) We have a 20ft CC with a 4.3LX Merc. and with 4 adults and two kids ours is horrible out of the hole. We were running a 14 1/4 X 19P aluminum prop. Now we switched to a Michigan 14.5 x 17P aluminum. Everyone Ive spoke to on here and locally said this is the prop I need. Our boat is a bit bigger but very similar IDK if a 19p prop would be beneficial. I also have a 21p prop that came with as an extra and everyone says thats way too much prop for my boat.

 

[choppywaters]

Re: Another prop question

The biggest thing to watch is the rpm's. My 4.3LX max rpm's are 4400-4600 and the lower the prop the more your rpm's will be. Today will be a good testing day to see what mph I get at wot. I don't really care if I go 50mph, we just cruise around and tube quite a bit so I want to average 20-25 mph. We also have Smart Tabs hopefully going on soon and everyone says they will help a great bit with plane and stability.

 

[Silly Seville]

Re: Another prop question

Our boat is a bit bigger but very similar IDK if a 19p prop would be beneficial.

You have a 20 foot cuddy, the OP has a 180 bowrider. Your boat is at least 400 lbs. heavier. His 180 will plane easier for this reason alone, and will be able to make better use of cruise rpm for reduced fuel consumption. I agree that the 17p is perfect for your application, but still maintain that 19p is best for what the OP is trying to accomplish.