Need help choosing a new Propeller.

[Zinzan Lomu]

complete novice here...boat details below...I know there are various tools to help choose a new prop...but I also wanted to test knowledge from experienced boat owners like yourselves.

2001 SeaRay BowRider
5.0L Mercruiser outdrive AlphaOne, 220HP
3400lbs dry
No more than 800lbs of cargo maximum (inc people)
Max RPM, 4800.
47Gal tank

I dont care much about holeshot speed...I just want a good all round prop that is economical, assists with planing and good top end speed, and also good for various watersports, and also want the engine to last!(Dont want to over rev)

I tried a Prop Calculator and its telling me 17-18 pitch. Is this about right...and what are the differences between how many blades...some had three and some had five blades, and does the material help at all with performance. Please help. Thanks.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Need help choosing a new Propeller.

Need more info.Size of the boat.
Present prop size.(usually on the barrel or under the prop nut)
Present max rpm and speed light load.and usual load.
Speaking generically;
Usually a 3 blade prop can privide good overall performance and best top speed.
multi blades improve hole shot,ability to stay on plane at less throttle and better control on plane and at the dock.Usually at a slight reduction of top end.
Generally a stainless prop will provide best overall performance but there are excellent aluminum props that can provide good performance at 1/3 to 1/2 the price.
The ss prop is more rugged but costs more to repair.Sometimes used where
contact with mud or sand is likely as al props bend easily.
Its difficult to have a prop that covers all the bases usually you would have to comprimise with some parameters.Some have a special prop for water sports.

 

[Robbabob]

Re: Need help choosing a new Propeller.

As Steele says, need more information on your boat and the current max rpm you achieve at wide open throttle.

We can't give any pertinent suggestions without knowing.