Prop question VP 5.0 gxi sx

[DaddyAirtime]

Hey all. Looking for prop advice, I appreciate the help. I have a 2006 Larson 208 lxi with the VP 5.0 gxif sx drive. I have never ran the 3 blade that was provided. The weathered VP 14.25x19 4 blade hits 52 mph @ 5000 rpm.

Problems I am trying to fix are spinning out in turns and pretty bad launch. I can't turn very sharp when operating at tow speeds and above. The prop just spins out. The launch is bad. I have smart tabs too and I get smoked by everybody. It does plane out nicely and track down others eventually, even larger more powerful boats.

I would like to order the Solas HRTitan 4 blade SS. I was told by the shop owner that I needed to get a 14.25x17 since it is stainless. She couldn't explain why she knew this, just that was her rule of thumb.

Does anyone have experience with the HR Titan 3 or 4 blade when upgrading from the same size/blade aluminum prop?

 

[SkiDad]

if you are hitting 5000 rpm i don't think going down to 17 is right unless this prop has a lot more blade surface. Was it always hitting 5000 RPM or has that risen with prop damage ? It looks like both props are made by Solas. If you go with it I think you might over rev. Maybe they can let you demo the prop ??

as for spinning out in turns you can't turn with the trim up real high - normally you trim down for tight turns. When I tow I leave my trim about 1/4 up at most.

 

[Maclin]

Maybe it is time to try "the 3 blade that was provided" just for comparison.

 

[DaddyAirtime]

Thank you for the speedy replies.

The three blade was OE but it's in bad shape. It was a 14.25x21 Volvo prop.

Yes, both sizes are for the same prop. Hr Titan 4 blade SS. I'm just wondering how the change to SS with aggresive cupping and rake will affect my rpms. 5000 rpm is top of range, 4600-5000 I believe. It has always hit 52 mph @ 5000

 

[SkiDad]

I'm not sure the correct answer - it would be good if your shop could let your demo both and commit to purchase one of them. I know I have had a michigan aluminum that had no cup and it hit 5800 but my Michigan stainless in same pitch hits 5500 - it has moderate cupping

 

[DaddyAirtime]

Okay thank you for the info. I called an experienced prop guy and he recommended the 19. He also sold it for -$80 less than my local shop, shipping included.