Re: Opinion on Solas props
So many prop designs are available because one prop rarely works well for every boat/engine/load/speed combination. Since you really don't care about a couple of mph at the top end and are really looking for better hole shot an aluminum Solas or another Black Max will probably work nicely. But, don't buy anything until you know what the important numbers are. If the engine is already at the top of its maximum recommended wide open throttle rpm, dropping pitch may cause over reving but it would help hole shot. On the other hand, if the engine is lugging due to the current prop having too much pitch, the change you are suggesting may increase rpm and also help hole shot some -- but not as much as just a switch from the 21P 3 blade aluminum to a 19P 3 blade aluminum. Remember, you said you wanted to keep the cost down. Stainless does not keep the cost down. There is just too much to consider here without some numbers and it is equally difficult to talk in generalities without those numbers. What holds true in one scenario does not automatically apply in another. Stainless is tough and the blades flex less than aluminum but hit something and you risk more severe lower unit damage than you would with aluminum which bends and breaks with less chance of lower unit damage. There are folks here with extensive prop testing knowledge and I'm sure they will be along with more specific advice but I will bet they too will ask for more detail.
