Prop condition

[muskyjim]

I fish flowages a lot. I have damaged more props than I care to admit. Currently I have a 17 degree pitch prop that has some dings and gouges in it. I have had it repaired to the it max. Speed on those flowages is slow if you want to keep your prop and lower unit in tact and good shape. The motor runs well, no vibration. I carry on board a new 17 prop that is a different style, it is cupped. I have had that prop on the boat before, and I get an extra 5 mph out of the engine. Top speed on with the old prop is around 30 mph in its current condition and 35 mph with the new style prop.
All this being said, should I run with the best prop? Am I doing any damage to the motor?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Prop condition

If it's dinged and gouged you aren't getting the best efficiency out of the engine. But on the other hand, if you typically are running slower speeds that won't hurt anything. As raised in Wisconsin guy, which flowage(s) do you fish? I'll be fishing the walleye opener on Solberg Lake (Phillips area) this year.

 

[propper_advice]

Re: Prop condition

what is your engine's make, year, and hp?

 

[propper_advice]

Re: Prop condition

also do you know what your rpms are at wide open?

 

[muskyjim]

Re: Prop condition

My engine is a 1979 70hp Johnson. I don't have a tach, so I don't know what my RPMs are. I should get one.
My favorite Flowage is the Turtle Flambeau. The 4 - 5 hour drive North is worth it. The Musky fishing isn't also ways kind to me, but the scenery is second to none.