Prop advice for 09 Bayliner 185

[Robert95z]

Hey Guys,

I'm looking for a a new prop for my 2009 Bayliner 185 4.3 tks. Stock prop is a 14x23 - 1.81 gear ratio (Alpha 1?)

I need more launching power for water sports, specifically wake boarding. I was thinking of going to a 4 blade 14x21 but will that be enough? Or should I goto a 4 blade 14x19? Id love the high 5, but im trying to stay under $200

I got a video of the boat at WOT and trimmed on a pretty calm lake.

Looks like its close to 54mph and about 5000 rpm's

So question is how can I lower the pitch on my current 14x23 with out over propping the engine?

Im imagining there is some "slip" also because this prop is a little beat up too

Thanks!

 

[steelespike]

Re: Prop advice for 09 Bayliner 185

The simple way out way out is a 4 blade.A 14 X 21 will no doubt help your low to mid range performance
and be easier to maintain reduced throttle speed.It will require careful watching to stay below max rpm.
A 23" 4 blade will also improve low to mid range without having to watch the rpm as it will be down 100 or so.
You could also consider some sort of trim tabs whether active or passive they need to be applied carefully with just enough pressure to be effective.

 

[SkiDad]

Re: Prop advice for 09 Bayliner 185

like Steelspike said, drop to a 21 pitch 4 blade and just be careful. You only pull skiers 25-30 mph depending on weight and number of skis. That boat is cruising !

 

[Robert95z]

Re: Prop advice for 09 Bayliner 185

I went ahead and ordered a Solas Amita 4 - 14x21... Hopefully this will do the trick.

I ordered a new washer/spacer/thrustwasher.. Is all that necessary? If so, do I need to replace them with new pieces every time I want to swap props?