Prop for Speed

[launboy]

If all goes well, I am going to have a 30 lb thrust 12 VDC Motorguide trolling motor by tomorrow(monday). I know these are generally propped to move bigger boats at trolling speeds.

I am going to be using this trolling motor on a Seahawk II inflatable boat and I want to go as fast as possible using a trolling motor.

The boat is 9' 7" long and with 2 people and battery aboard weighs just under 400 lbs.

My question is, can I use a prop from a higher thrust trolling motor to go faster? Can I use an aluminum trolling motor prop and bend the blades to increase the pitch? Does anybody have any props thye reccomend for speed on a trolling motor? Will a propeller from a small outboard work?

Thanks,
Adam

 

[steelespike]

Re: Prop for Speed

As with regular outboards your motor is designed to run at a specific rpm.
changing pitch will put it outside its rpm range.your 30 pounder is pretty much pushing its max on any boat.Your boat is a poor choice for max electric speed.you need a long slender boat like a canoe loaded as level bow to stern as possible.an 18 ft would probably go as fast or faster than say a 12 and still be easily car topped.
usually your looking for a beamy canoe for room and stability.you want a narrow canoe.A long slender kayak would work too.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Prop for Speed

Ayuh,.......

I've used a 45lb. Motorguide on My Canoe for years,......

I took 1 of the 2 props that came with it,+ used a Heatgun,+ the Oven to put more pitch into the blades,.....
It'll scoot right along, but the blades are Not very well balanced,+ it'll cause a viberations at higher speeds......

Good Luck with your's.....