Mercruiser WOT and Pitch Question

[wribbs]

I have a 98 Caravelle with A Mercruiser 4.3L with an Alpha One drive. When I bought my Caravelle used it had a 23 pitch prop on it. I busted the prop and had to replace it. To be extra careful I called Caravelle and go the OEM prop specs and ordered a Hustler 14.25 X 23 prop. The old prop would turn 4,800 RPM at WOT. This new prop will only turn 4,200 RPM at WOT. I did have more people in the boat and of course that would affect speed, but would it affect WOT RPM's?<br /><br />Thanks in advance for the good advice.<br /><br />Chris B

 

[Mikedg]

Re: Mercruiser WOT and Pitch Question

Loading down the boat will reduce the RPM at WOT. Run the boatwith your usual load and see if you get in the range. If not it's time to change the prop. Each inch you reduce the pitch will increase your RPM by 200.<br /><br />Good luck.