Re: Decoding model numbers & choosing props
Mikeysdad,Congratulations on your boat.The 13 ft Whaler you have is considered an easy planing runabout.The 35 hp engine is a good choice for optimal power.<br /><br />First deciide whether you are considering a stainless steel or aluminum prop for your engine.Most sst props will be double cupped and are designed to provide durability as well as better performance.These feature come at a relatively expensive price when shopping new.The aluminum class props are not quite as durable and have a bit thicker blades which are not quite as efficient as their sst counterparts,however are considerably more affordable and in most applications as well as yours will be sufficient..<br /><br />With that in mind,according to my Boston Whaler literature and an older OMC propeller guide,your engine should perform well with anywhere from a 10 X 15" three blade aluminum or a 10 X 17" three blade aluminum prop.Of course the final determination of which of these you choose will need to be based on a water test.This will confirm what the engines WOT rpm will be ,fitted with a given choice.That's what your goal is when selecting the proper dia and pitch propeller for your engine.The one that will allow your engine to run within the manufacturers recommended Wide Open Throttle operating range.Hope I wasn't too long winded.Good luck.
