help selecting a prop for 230 hp 5.0L V8 with gen1 alpha 1

[fsamie1]

I have a 14.5X17 on the merc in my 24 foot Rinker cuddy cabin. I want it to plane quicker and not worried about top speed. should I go one pitch down to 16 or two down to 15? thanks

 

[achris]

Re: help selecting a prop for 230 hp 5.0L V8 with gen1 alpha 1

15". But if you want truly awesome acceleration, try a Laser II with the vent plugs removed... That puppy will pull the arms out of a skiers' shoulders...

 

[jestor68]

Re: help selecting a prop for 230 hp 5.0L V8 with gen1 alpha 1

I suggest that you visit the Mercury prop selector and input your data for your 23 ft Cuddy.

I have taken a peek, but will not make a recommendation without knowing what WOT rpm you are getting now with the 14.5 X 17. That will give me an idea of the state of your motor; as the prop selector assumes a fresh motor developing full rated power. The gear ratio is also necessary to see what prop(s) are suitable.

The only 24 ft cuddy I find with a Gen 1 230 hp is a 1989. The dry weight of that boat is about 3500. With 500 lbs of people/gear and 35 gal of gas, the calculated weight is 4199.

Mercury prop selector does not recommend a Laser II for a 24 ft Cuddy.

Really need the current performance(rpm/speed) to determine if a prop change is in order. There are ways to improve time to plane other than changing props.

 

[achris]

Re: help selecting a prop for 230 hp 5.0L V8 with gen1 alpha 1

I used a Laser II on my 20' cuddy (weights about 5,000# wet) and got awesome results.

Merc prop selector does recommend the Enertia, which, like the Laser, is a vented prop...