Prop Question---does size matter?

[MidwestMonaco]

I'm going to invest in a stainless steel prop and ditch my aluminum prop. But I have a question...my prop right now is 15 inch diameter and the stainless steel props I'm looking at is 14.25 inches. <br />If both props are the same pitch will diameter make any difference in RPMs? <br />And does a stainless steel prop run a few hundered RPM slower than an equivalent aluminum prop?<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Prop Question---does size matter?

The efficiency is better on an SS prop and in most cases the diameter will be slightly less in SS...normal, don't worry about the diameter...<br />As for pitch, I'd use the same one as your alum., but before purchasing a new prop, you need to make sure you are at the top of your RPM range with a normal load.

 

[Jilly - 5]

Re: Prop Question---does size matter?

You can "chip" a little off all the aluminum specs with a stainless prop, and get the same performance. That's the "efficiency" thing. The stainless blades are thinner, and do not bend back like aluminium blades when under load. But if indeed you looking for "equal performance", why go stainless at all? Stainless is for offshore speed stuff. Otherwise, and not knowing how/where you boat, hitting a good object with stainless could tear up your lower unit. Additionally, stainless weighs about 33% more than aluminum, banging up your lower unit gears with each foward/reverse shift. Think about it.

 

[Richard Petersen]

Re: Prop Question---does size matter?

Jilly 5 right again.

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: Prop Question---does size matter?

The weight comparison is one I'd never thought of before.<br /><br />Kenny, what's your view on that?

 

[Mahoney]

Re: Prop Question---does size matter?

I was running a SS prop on my old high profile stringer for a few times out. Codder pin came loose and lost it to the bottom of the lake.<br /><br />Called Prop Shop here in Seattle and they said I shouldnt even be running SS props on that setup as the weight difference does have a much more detrimental effect on my lower unit, and especially my setup as it runs with a pin drive instead of splines.

 

[stevens]

Re: Prop Question---does size matter?

So, it's the same story as always; nobody will admit to it, but the size does matter....

 

[andymach23]

Re: Prop Question---does size matter?

Thickness is also a factor....