Re: prop question #2,000,013
Theres a lot to it. Generally speaking, larger diameter will allow a higher X dimention. That reduces drag and improves slip %. However - (theres always a however)- in most cases, not all, props of greater diameter will have more technology built in to them. The reason is that most people who want more diameter are very knowledgeable about set up and the props are application specific. It has to do with rake angle, progressive pitch, style of cup, length of cup, style of blades and blade area to name a few. It all has to do with the way the prop "carries" the boat. Some lift the stern, some lift the bow and some have total or overall lift. Thats why testing is involved. <br /><br />99.9% of people who say they have tried a 4 blade and its slower compared to their 3 blade have only swapped props. A four blade prop should run at a higher X dimension than a three. The same is true for diameter. A 15.5" diameter will not run best at the perfect set up for a 13.5" diameter. <br /><br />Totally confused? My personal preferance would be different but if you are running a Power Tech now the logical thing is to stick with them so you are comparing apples to apples. Also make sure you test with your new gearcase to verify past performance. In otherwords re-establish your baseline.<br /><br />BTW - when you get your jack plate working that will change everything. The fin will too.
