prop selection for the slightly used boat

[sima]

Hello everybody.

I just got a 2004 185LX Stingray and need to change the prop.

I have 3.oGL-CVolvo Penta engine. It uses SX / Cobra Drive (Single Propeller).
135 HP, WOT range 4200-4600.
I think I would like to get an Aluminum 17" pitch prop. Being in Minnesota, I will be using this boat on the lakes or rivers mostly for family recreation.

It looks like my options are:

Michigan Match Aluminum Propeller
Black Diamond with Flow Torq Hub Aluminum Propeller
QL Aluminum Propeller

The difference in price is about $30 between the Michigan and the rest.

Being a new to this will I see a difference between the cheaper prop?

Thank you in advance.

 

[xxxflhrci]

Re: prop selection for the slightly used boat

IMO, you should do yourself a favor and spend the bucks for a stainless prop. They are nearly indestructible. When I was running aluminum props, I was sending one out to the prop shop at least twice a summer from hitting things like small sticks and such. For the past 10 years, I have been using stainless. My prop still looks like new.

Anyway, I have a 17.5 ft boat with a 3.0. I get 40 mph or so at 4600 rpm out of a 3 blade 19P.

 

[freddyray21]

Re: prop selection for the slightly used boat

I would not run a stainless prop in the river around here. An aluminum prop will give if you hit something a stainless prop will not. When the prop does not give something else has to. Usually the gears in the lower unit. Stainless is great for lakes where you know your depth, but not the rivers around here imo.

 

[sima]

Re: prop selection for the slightly used boat

Thank you all for the advice.

One more question.

What is the difference between this 3 brands:

Michigan Match Aluminum Propeller
Black Diamond with Flow Torq Hub Aluminum Propeller
QL Aluminum Propeller

Being a new boater will I see any difference if I get the cheaper one (Michigan) vs others?

thank you.