Possible Prop Issue

[Cheerios67]

Hey All,

Have been boating most of my life but just purchased our first boat a few weeks ago. After a few trips out now I think I need to go down in prop pitch. I was about to go purchase the new prop but before doing so I thought I should pull mine off first and I think I have an issue. From what I can tell there is no nut holding my prop on and it appears the prop must be stuck. I know this is somewhat normal but mine also appears to have some sleeve coming out of the hub and I’m not sure what it is. Attached are some pictures. Again, we have been out on the water many times now with the prop exactly how the picture shows which seems impossible without a prop nut but maybe it’s just that seized.

If anyone can point me in the correct direction and ensure I’m not missing something that would be great.

Thanks!

 

[Sea Rider]

Without a tach reading won't know how damaged that prop could be. When installing the new one in post the max wot rpm achieved as loaded on flat calm water cond and the min-max wot rpm range factory stated for the motor. The new prop must rev the motor inside its min-max wot rpm range althouth middle to max wot rpm range it's much preferred.

Happy Boating

 

[Faztbullet]

That is a prop lock and you need the key to lock into slots to screw if off. What is motor doing to cause you to think prop needs resizing?

 

[Cheerios67]

When at WOT I hit about 3900-4000 rpms which seems low based on the ratings I have found for the 5.7L mercruiser I have. We do normally have the boat pretty loaded with people and gear but it really struggles to get up on plane when loaded. I am totally fine sacrificing a little top end for a better hole shot so was thinking of going to a 4 blade 17”. The current prop is a 3 blade 13.75x21.

 

[WesNewell]

A 4 blade 17P sounds good to me and i doubt you'll lose much if any top speed since you're well below recommended rpm range with the 21p prop.