Merc Prop - What size to use

[ewalden444]

Hello, All<br /><br />I just bought a used 1986 Bass Tracker boat. It has a 1986 Merc Classic Fifty (45hp) boat motor on it. The prop is beat up bad. I wanted to replace it. The prop I pulled off the motor is a 10 X 14P. Is this the correct prop for this motor? Or should I be looking for a better prop to back on this motor.<br /><br />Thanks in advance for you help.<br /><br />Ed

 

[TG]

Re: Merc Prop - What size to use

Ed. I have the same thing going. I own a 86 Tracker TX-17 w/ 50hp Mariner. The stock prop I have on is a 10 1/8 x 15p. I'm trying to get some input to boost the top end speed. I can get only 23-26 mph out of the boat with no load. The Michigan wheel prop site is a good starting point. Just my 2 cents. Good Luck.

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: Merc Prop - What size to use

The most important thing to consider in propping your motor is the WOT rpm with a given prop. You want to be able to run the motor at max RPM with a typical load. Over revving is well, not good, and under revving will lug the motor and cause undue wear and tear as well as not achieving max performance. <br />Generally getting more top end speed comes at the expense of poorer hole shot performance.<br />The other thing to look at is how high/low the motor is mounted on the transom.

 

[timmathis]

Re: Merc Prop - What size to use

Also iboats has a prop finder search. Tim