Prop size use w/jackplate

[southtexas]

I have a Yamaha f115 4 stroke on a 20 ft everglades. I believe the prop on it is a standard 13x17. I am adding a jack plate to help in shallow water and have been told a 4 blade will help me get up quicker (along with Smart tabs SX). My wot RPM appears to be running under 5000 now. Do I even need a 4 blade? Does it need to have more pitch (ie 13x19 or greater)? Does more pitch equal more RPMs but slower speed? Speed is not my concern; getting up quicker is...enhanced gas conservation would be nice too...thanks as always

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Prop size use w/jackplate

1 change at a time. Add the jackplate and test again with the same prop. At 5000 rpm you should be looking for more rpm not more pitch. Once the plate is on and the motor is higher test with the same prop to see if the reduced drag is going to allow more rpm. A 115 4 stroke on a 20' boat is asking a lot.